The field of 15 started off in cold, damp conditions on Saturday morning but when the sun appeared it got extremely hot and dried out the lawns, making them a lot faster.
Games are not timed, allowing a fair competition with lots of defence and attacking play to the finish.
Players had to adapt to the changing conditions quickly.
Competitors came from Blenheim, Christchurch and South Canterbury clubs.
The two-day competition is very popular as it is handicap play and newer players get extra shots, allowing them to play on a more even footing against their experienced counterparts.
One of the Geraldine club’s newer players, Silvery Bauman, won the competition with 13 wins.
Second was David Bailey from Ashbury club with 11 wins.
Croquet continues to grow in popularity and now many clubs have opportunities for those who work during the week to play the game at weekends.
Geraldine plays on Sundays and Wednesday mornings.
— APL
