Global day of croquet

Getting into the spirit of the golf croquet open afternoon are (from left) Clare Wakelin, Jenny Virtue, Jo Coker and Robin Bennett. Picture supplied

World Croquet Day was celebrated in Gisborne with a golf croquet open afternoon organised by Barry Memorial Croquet Club members.

It was aimed at those new to the game, and 12 players took part.

Many of them had never lifted a mallet before.

Everyone played three games, each game in a different pairing, and most had at least one win.

Former cricketer, footballer and football referee Peter Findon won the afternoon competition, with 19 points.

Runner-up was Jean Bennett, with 18.

Club captain Ross Thomson said the enjoyable play and pleasant company made for a great afternoon with lots of fun and laughter.

Thomson said the first Saturday in May each year was recognised by clubs worldwide as World Croquet Day.

It was primarily celebrated in the Northern Hemisphere because most clubs in the Southern Hemisphere were near the end of their season or already in their off-season.

However, the Barry club continued during winter, weather permitting. So it was fitting that, in line with Gisborne’s status as the first city in the world to see the sun, the players at the open afternoon were among the first in the world to hit a croquet ball that day.

The afternoon’s prizes were sponsored by Jenny at The Agency.

It is intended to hold a similar open day early summer.