The 2020 World Association Croquet Championships in Melbourne, Australia has concluded, the main event being won by world ranked No. 1, Reg Bamford (now UK-based but representing South Africa), beating the talented US 21-year old Matthew Essick 3-1 in a best-of-5 final (+14TP, -12, +17TP, +26TP). Reg is for the fifth time World Champion.
Four of our club members: Ian Burridge, Paddy Chapman, James Death and Alain Giraud took part with distinction in this prestigious nine day 80-player tournament. Ian got through to the last 32 in the knockout, Paddy (outgoing World Champion) to the last 16 and James to the last 8. They return to Nottingham with two of the trophies: James won the Salver, and Alain the Plate.
It is a testament to the enduring strength of the UK Association Croquet scene that all five of the top trophies were won by UK-based players. The Bowl was won by Samir Patel and the Shield by Stephen Mulliner, both of Surbiton croquet club. It was encouraging to note a new international generation of younger players rising rapidly towards the top of the sport, with five of the eight quarter-finalists being under 30.
Live video streaming with expert commentary was available on the internet for the later rounds.
All trophies were presented to the winners by Ian Burridge in his role as President of the World Croquet Federation.
Congratulations to all involved.