Cavalier approach pays off

FUN DAY: Barry Memorial Croquet Club held a fun competition day during the Christmas-New Year break. Those who took part were, standing (from left): Dave Newton, Kurt Thomson and Rick Thomson. Sitting: Ross Thomson, Muriel McMillan, Christine McCullough, Chris Newton, Des Chaffey, Rob Hayes, Ina Elzen, Robyn Chaffey, Per Elzen and John Wilson. Picture by Charles Ostler

Croquet

NON-MEMBERS had an opportunity to try their hand at a new game when Barry Memorial Croquet Club held a fun competition day during the Christmas-New Year break.

All players had seven games, each with a different partner, and were credited with the number of hoops their pairings achieved.

This type of tournament encouraged tactics different from those normally used. The emphasis was on winning each hoop quickly, not playing defensively.

This perfectly suited the cavalier playing style of Rick Thomson, a visitor from Hamilton and a non-croquet player. He won comfortably, with 49 hoops.

While pleased with the prize money, he seemed more delighted in finishing ahead of elder brother Kurt, who was visiting from Wellington, and father Ross.

Ina Elzen was second, with 42 hoops. At the prize-giving, Ina said she was surprised because she never won anything. Almost immediately, she was named as the co-winner (with Rob Hayes) in the mystery pairs competition, the pairings being drawn towards the end of tournament play.

This month the club is holding twilight Have-a-Go sessions on Wednesday evenings from 5pm for anyone wishing to try the game of croquet.

The sessions are free of charge. Equipment and tuition will be provided and games arranged. Flat-soled shoes or jandals must be worn. The club is situated at 530 Aberdeen Road.