James Moir of York CC earned the title of Croquet England’s All England AC handicap champion for 2026, competing in a regional heat at York, a national semi final and the grand final at Wrest Park in September. James’ verdict: ‘It was a great experience getting to meet some lovely and talented players from around the country, so I’d heartily recommend it.’
Here is Patricia Duke-Cox, former President of Croquet England, presenting the New Zealand Croquet Council plate for James’ club, with the individual silver trophy for James awaiting presentation.
York are proud custodians for the next year of the New Zealand Croquet Council plate, a beautiful object decorated with paua shell.
York players were joined by competitors from Nottingham, Crake Valley, Ashby and Southwell for a weekend of short croquet at the Viking Challenge. 9 games over two days, expertly tournament managed by Fiona (sporting customised Viking headgear), resulted in a fantastic win for our own Denise. She won 7 games, drew 2 and scored 22 points, narrowly pipping her nearest rival from Nottingham to the title by a hoop difference of one (and by beating him in their game). Congratulations to a very popular winner!
York players were out in force over the August BH weekend, contesting full lawn singles matches over two days. After six rounds Helen Griffiths had not lost a match! Well played to her and congratulations on winning the shield. Special mention also to two Sunday players, newbie Steve Hedges stepping up to the challenge of 18 point croquet, and Richard Lamborn on a 12 hoop break and 3 wins from 3 games!
Eight York members enjoyed a day of friendly competition, even if most of the leaves which are a feature of advanced play were those blowing off the trees! Two games went to golden hoop and kept everyone on tenterhooks. Cathie scored the winning hoop after 20 minutes of extra time, earning her and playing partner Chris a place in the final against Sue L and Fiona. The final match was very close, 12-12 on time, necessitating another protracted and entertaining tussle for the winning golden hoop. Sue and Fiona held their nerve to earn the title of club champions for 2026. Congratulations to them!
16 higher and lower handicappers paired, 4 rounds of short croquet, Bring&Share lunch, hard-fought games, golden hoops, a 14-0 victory and everything in between, a mid-lawn cannon and a winning pair in Simon and Chris A. Congratulations to them and well played all!
The heatwave temperatures of late June continued for the Harris Handicap, now in its third year. Fourteen players turned out in sartorial style with outfits inventively customised in croquet colours, and contested four rounds of short croquet on lawns that challenged with variable speeds. Following the example of the World Cup hydration breaks were built in after each round and gave the players some necessary respite from the heat. By lunchtime, after two rounds, Sue L and Chris A were leaders of the pack with two wins apiece.
Conversation flowed over an excellent Bring&Share lunch - the usual range of savoury and sweet delights was enjoyed by all. Siestas were called for but time was pressing for the afternoon’s play.