The Horners held the tournament again this year at the Sussex County Croquet Club with the benefit of what had been called the best lawns in the country by a commentator at an international tournament that was held there recently, plus a recently refurbished club house, excellent food and refreshments and not forgetting some competitive croquet and some croquet just for fun.
We were fortunate to have yet another fine day on the south coast but a few degrees less than the previous days in the week.
Horners’ numbers were down a bit this year, but we were pleased to welcome Nigel and Sue Haig- Brown from the WC of Spectacle Makers, and friends of the Horners Joanna, Ruth and David. We were of course sorry that Jeremy could not join us but we sent him a card with our best wishes.
Our very welcoming host, Jonathan Isaacs, came up with an excellent Swiss format for the event which meant that after an initial pairing of players, winners played winners and losers played losers until a winner emerged. This led to semi-finals between Tim and Alan and Barry and Rebecca. The first semi-final was a straightforward affair whereas the second between two determined past masters was an epic battle with Barry eventually coming out on top. In the final Tim showed why he has won the event more times than anyone else and was reunited with his horn trophy.
Phillip Watkins came for the first time, showed natural ability and skill against more long standing players and was awarded the best newcomer award by Jonathan.
Judith and her team produced the usual high standard of lunch and tea which has become a feature of the tournament.
I think we may revert to a July date next year which will hopefully mean more players and potential croquet players will be available to come and enjoy a relaxing fun day out on the south coast.
Alan Price