The NW Federation Millennium AC Advanced was contested at Pendle & Craven Croquet Club over the August weekend of 20/21st on parched mown brownish grass.
Twelve NW Members arrived bright and early to pre-ordered Bacon Butties, delivered through the kitchen smoky haze (from the frying pans) – didn’t affect the flavour though.. yum!
After quick practice knock, allowed to try and get to grips with the super fast courts and firm, tight hoops, players started their un-timed games – well it is meant to be ‘Advanced’ after all!
Comments about play on Saturday? One pairing got to double bank with six other players (a record surely?) – such was the speed of their play, they got to see three other games start and finish before they reached a result..
Weather? Two light quick showers blew through – not enough to warrant water-proofs or cool a very warm day.
Due to the timing of the tournament dinner, one game was pegged down and the place locked up while energy abounded – great meal & fab company.
Sunday; overnight heavy rain promised easier conditions for all and so it proved, doubling the ‘TPs’ achieved in the sunshine but it also brought problem time for the manager. After the day’s first round, all the top seeds had beaten each other up – giving three tied in top spot…..oops!
All things shake out (honest), and so the presentation; this year’s ‘Neil Williams’ recipient – Rick Harding and the ‘Woodlands’ got awarded to Nigel Matthews
