We all remember The Thriller in Manila and The Rumble in the Jungle. Well, today we hosted the 2024 South West Federation High Handicap final, and it turned out to be an epic.
After a full season’s competition Swanage and Llandaff croquet clubs had topped their respective leagues and The Showdown in Peasedown was on!
Remarkably three of our four lawns were playable after the recent rains. The standard of play was excellent and there was much tactical discussion, especially in the doubles games.
After a full day’s competition the score was a tantalising 10-10. Something had to break the deadlock and a final doubles game was decided upon. The crowd (there’s rarely a crowd at croquet) was riveted. This is as exciting as croquet gets!
Swanage commendably won the decider 7-4 and therefore are crowned the 2024 High Handicap champions. Here are the two exhausted teams (Llandaff on the lleft and Swansea, right).
Many thanks to Nigel for busily reffing the match and Des/David/Mark for setting up the hoops. Also Fran and Sue for cake and tea-making.