From Floods to Fun -- thanks to “Those Lovely Lawns”

Sunday 18th was another of those AC Tournament days that didn’t dawn bright and sunny!  Indeed six intrepid players from four clubs braved rains, partially flooded roads and diversions even to get to High Wycombe – only to be greeted by the entrance gate sitting in a lake of about an inch of water.
 
Having arrived for set-up around 08.15, we were greeted by a miserable scene – Lawn 1 with several deep puddles, and probably nearly a quarter of Lawn 2 with free-standing water.  By dint of hard labour with that great new brush, good luck with the rain stopping, and mostly the super lawns and drainage at HW, three matches were underway on time at 09.15 with no water showing except on the paths and surrounds!  As the day went on, things improved further – lawns firmed up, ran true if a bit slower than usual, and all was set for a good day.  We were all delighted that the manager (Mike Porter) hadn’t taken the easy option and cancelled – we would have missed out on 8 hours of fun, and even a bit of sun in the afternoon.
 
Much of the croquet was more than worthy of the effort – as you would expect with four of the players being under-3 handicappers (with 2 sub-zero).  We were able to play an all-play-all tournament, with Roger Tribe (Blewbury) emerging as ‘king of the day’ with 5 wins, followed by Mike flying HW’s flag with 4.  As the sun came out it was a fine scene – of craftsmen at work (in most cases!) – smooth rhythmic control of the balls, interspersed occasionally with raw power. 
 
All standards were on display – from very strong and experienced players to one who had never played a ‘level’ or ‘advanced’ tournament.  While the latter frequently showed how confusing the game could be, he thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to gain new experience in a very friendly and supportive environment – one of the clear benefits of these friendly winter tournaments!
 
A good day was had by all – despite the unpromising beginning – and thanks to the quality of our lawns and their upkeep.

Richard Coward