A fine weekend saw ideal conditions for the AC Grades this year, played at United Croquet Club. The number of players is concerning from an AC perspective, however, we did have 2 players competing in their first tournament. Congratulations to Carolyn Smith (Akaroa) and Cheryl Morrall (Fendalton).

The 18 – 24 Grade had 6 players enter and competed for the CCA Trophy and CNZ Silver Badge. The winner was Stuart Rich from Edgeware with 5 wins and 3 of those with maximum hoops. The runner-up Patsy Clegg from St James won over fellow club member Barbara Johnstone by a few hoops. 

10 to 16 Grade not played as the two entrants decided to play up to ensure at least one of the grades went ahead. 

4 to 9 Grade: Bruce McLay (United) got the win and Silver Badge over Sue Stott (Edgeware) who was playing up a grade. Thanks also to Lynne Corbett (St James) and Gaylene Jones (Cashmere) for also playing up to complete the field of 4

0 to 3.5 Grade: John Hearnshaw (United) and Carolyn Fordyce (South Canterbury) were joined by Leo van Oosten (Holmes Park) and Trish Dollan (South Canterbury) both playing up so that the grade play could go ahead. The winner John Hearnshaw was decided in the last round, winning against Leo van Oosten. 

Well done to everyone and thanks to all for an enjoyable tournament. I certainly enjoyed filling in for Jono as the manager.

Detailed results are on Croquet Scores at https://croquetscores.com/2025/ac/cca-grades.

Gaylene Jones