Nottingham Croquet Club was delighted to host this prestigious event for the first time in our 93 year history. It was also the first time our new West lawns (and our new balls) had been used for a top class event. For five days, spectators were treated to a feast of croquet excellence, with some of the UK's top players (and one from New Zealand) competing. It was good to note that about a third of the field were roughly under 40. Many matches were tightly fought, and some virtuosic, with the last game of the Men's final being won with a sextuple peel.
The new lawns met with great acclaim from the visitors, and they anticipate them being even better next year for the Opens. The tight hoop setting by Charlie was much appreciated. The new balls, sadly, seem to be somewhat variable in sphericality and finish, leading to one or two dificuties which had to be resolved by referees.
Patricia Duke Cox, as Vice President of the CA, presented the prizes.
Thanks were offered in absentia to Charlie the groundsman who had prepared the lawns to such a high standard, and to all the catering team for their excellent and heartily appreciated provision.
Results:
Men's Championship: James Death (Runner up: Mark Suter)
Women's Championship: Jenny Clarke (Runner-up: Gabrielle Higgins)
Mixed Doubles Championship: Rachel Gee & Ian Burridge
Du Pre Cup: Alain Giraud
Photos:
(1) James, (2) Jenny, (3) Alain – all being congratulated by Patricia Duke-Cox
