Delaying this year’s President’s Trophy competition until the second half of the year proved advantageous for the Lakes Entrance Croquet Club.
The event was blessed with beautiful weather for the 10 members who participated in the 2024 event held last Saturday.
Under blue skies this annual trophy competition was a handicap event held in two sections, initially with a knockout final to declare the winner of the President’s Trophy for 2024.
Section one was taken out by Rhonda Smith winning all of her four games from Julie Drummond who lost one game of her quartet.
In section two, Corry Schreuders was the victor, also winning all his four games from Jennie Towan who won three of her four games.
Rhonda and Corry played a knockout handicap final with Corry having four extra turns on Rhonda, which meant she had to be on her game to be able to compete successfully with the calibre of Corry’s croquet.
Eventually Corry was crowned the winner, seven hoops to four, in a match which was watched by a healthy crowd.
A newcomer to the game, Corry has had some magnificent achievements within his first year playing golf croquet.
He was victorious in the club “B” grade singles championship before pairing with Peter Berlingeri to win the club doubles championship.
Corry has been able to reduce his handicap substantially during this time, with his participation in the Gippsland Croquet Association pennant season for 2024 beneficial in his development.
While that concludes the club championships for 2024, members are looking forward to competing in the annual Bairnsdale/Lakes Challenge and Orbost Challenge in the near future along with the Elaine Hancock Memorial Trophy in November.
Following the club’s participation in the recent Community Club’s Expo, a “come and try croquet” afternoon will be held this Sunday, October 20, from noon to 3pm. All equipment will be provided, however it is necessary to wear covered flat sole shoes.
Alternatively, Lakes Entrance Croquet Club always welcomes anyone in the community who would like to become familiar with the game of golf croquet.
Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday morning are the usual play days.
However, Wednesday is more preferable for anyone wishing to experience and see what the game is all about.
Friday afternoon (3pm) is also a great time to meet new friends and learn the game of croquet in a social atmosphere.