By Isle of Wight Observer
The croquet season came to an end last weekend, with the very popular Thornton Trophy, which attracted 28 players for a doubles competition.
The tournament requires skilful organisation, as the intention is that, over a five-game round robin, everyone is paired with a different partner in each round and plays against different opponents. Each pairing also features an experienced player alongside a less experienced player.
After five rounds, the experienced group was led by Sue England, with four wins and 33 hoops, followed by Stuart Peters and Harry Oldham, both with four wins and 32 hoops. On a tie-break, Stuart qualified for the final.
The less experienced players were led by Katrina Reading, with a perfect score of five wins, followed by Pat Southcott, with four wins and 32 hoops.
The final was very close. Sue and Pat took an early lead, only to be pegged back by Stuart and Katrina. The turning point came at hoop 10, where a slip allowed Stuart and Katrina to pinch the hoop.
Hoop 11 was won by Katrina with a brilliant jump shot, while Sue took hoop 12 with a nerveless run from distance. However, a good lead-off from Katrina at the deciding hoop ensured their victory by seven hoops to six.
