Croquet Report

The winners (pictured) were Emily Dunn, Barbara Spence, Larry Perry and Jim Portwood (unfortunately missing from the photo). Runners up were Brad Williams, Eric Tompkins, Les Burnett and Ian Johnston. Thank you to all who supported this important event. – Barbara Spence

Croquet Report

Nedlands Competition

We were represented by Terry Harvey, Jan and Terry Craddock, Jenny Wilmot and Cheryl Saul at the Golf Croquet Singles “B” and “C” Grade State competitions held in June All played well giving Sorrento a great boost in reputation. Terry Harvey came second in his Block, which is a most commendable effort – especially as he had tripped over one of the boundary markers and ended up with a grazed cheek and a black eye!! Nonetheless, he carried on in the competition beating the opponent who was playing against him when he fell. Well done to Terry! Tuesday saw continued success for Sorrento with Jan Craddock winning the “C” Grade Competition. It was a close call in that three of the eight players won five of their seven matches. However, Jan achieved a nett hoop score of 16 with the other two players each scoring 10. Jenny, Cheryl and Terry all acquitted themselves admirably and all players have made us very proud of them. Di McGivern was asked to be the Referee for the day, increasing

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Sorrento’s presence by yet another person. Also, Terry Harvey showed his on-going support of the Club by arriving at Nedlands to watch our players.

(Post) COVID-19 Cup Competition

Once restrictions were eased, some clever members of Croquetwest devised a new competition. So, instead of the usual 13-point games of Golf Croquet, they chose to play the 19-point version. Having been “starved” of competition for so long, there was an overwhelming response and the organisers had to turn players away. Even doing so, they still needed to split the first round into “winners” and “losers”. The winners played the winners for the “COVID Cup”; whilst the first-round losers competed against each other for the “COVID Plate”. However, there were enough players turned away for the organisers to come up with a “Second Wave” competition. It was into this latter competition that the Sorrento players were accepted and five of our players travelled together in the Craddock’s bus to Victoria Park. The same format as “The Cup” was used, Di McGivern partnered by Marcus McGavot (Forrest Park) won the Doubles competition with Jenny Wilmot and Cheryl Saul being the runners up. Terry and Jan played just as well as all others, but were unlucky to have lost their first game of doubles – putting them out of contention. Every player was presented with a “Covid Cup” (see photo) and a Certificate of Participation as an “Essential Pandemic Player” as well as a face mask and a pair of disposable gloves. The competition was played in good spirit and the day was enjoyed by all.

Geraldton Tournament

Taking advantage of the easing of Covid restrictions, Jan and Terry Craddock headed North for this three day competition. The windy city lived up to its reputation, turning on heavy rain and severe gales for two days. However, it proved to be an interesting experience for them having to play in shoes that were so wet, that even a change of

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socks failed to provide relief. The wind, during their final game, was so strong that Jan was propelled backwards whilst lining up her shot. In spite of the extreme weather conditions, they had very successful outcomes with Jan winning the level play singles; placing second in the handicap doubles; and fourth in the handicap singles within her Block. In his Block, Terry achieved second place in each of the events. They celebrated their successes on their way home by enjoying a delicious crayfish lunch at Cervantes. Well done Jan and Terry!

York Country Doubles Tournament

Jan and Terry were barely back when off they went to play in the York and once again the only representatives from Sorrento! This challenging competition attracted players with handicaps ranging from -2 to +14 – Terry and Jan entered with handicaps of 12 and 14. York Croquet Club organised the competition to ensure that all entrants were matched with a good proportion of players of similar abilities. Terry and Jan did very well to win four of their eight games; and, once again, thoroughly enjoyed the relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Volunteers

As our President has said on many occasions “Volunteers are the heart of our Club and worth their weight in gold”. We acknowledged all members who volunteer but a special mention needs to go to Jan and Terry Craddock who have re-set the benchmark in our area. Terry has painted everything that needed a new coat, put up notice boards, put down pavers, and replaced wooden slats in our benches. He and Jan have trimmed trees, weeded gardens, provided a tea and coffee service (complete with home baked cakes on occasion) – the list goes on and on! We say a VERY BIG “Thank You” to this special pair of people.

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