Michael Finnigan won the Nottingham Autumn Handicap weekend
[<<] [>>] by Rob Edlin-White
19th September 2004
(AC - Handicap)
An on-form Michael Finnigan prevailed in all 8 of his games and won the Eclipse goblet and a handicap reduction.
Seventeen players with ages ranging from 11 to over 70 convened on a blustery Friday to enjoy the 5 lovely lawns of Nottingham Croquet Club. 3 players were taking part in a CA tournament for the first time. There was plenty of play for those who wanted it, with no general time limit. The weather improved through the weekend, the lawns remained fairly easy paced and people got an average of 6.6 games each. After 2 days, the leaders included Edward Barry, Michael Finnigan, Gordon Hopewell (handicap 1.5 and the first winner of the trophy 5 years ago) and John Handy, the existing holder. Finnigan continued to win 2 more games to become the only unbeaten player.
In presenting the awards, Jeane Ackermann congratulated the winner and runner-up, presenting Michael with the Eclipse Goblet and both Michael and Edward with commemorative engraved glasses to mark the 75th Anniversary of the club. She also congratulated Ken Knowles for a personal landmark achievement. The manager and club members who had provided excellent catering were thanked.
Handicap Changes
Michael Finnigan 14 to 12
Julian Sweed 8 to 7
Edward Barry 10 to 9
Malcolm Gee 24 to 22
The first 2 of these may make Nottingham's imminent defence of the Longman Cup a greater challenge!
Final Standings
100% Michael Finnigan
84% Edward Barry
71% Gordon Hopewell giving an average of 13.5 bisques!
67% Malcolm Gee playing in his first tournament
60% John Hansen
57% Julian Sweed
50% Ian Hill
50% William Gee playing in his first tournament aged 11
50% David Brydon
50% John Handy
Under 50%:
Janet Booker
Rob Edlin-White (manager)
Tony Hudson
Jeanne Ackermann
Ken Knowles
Helen Hudson
Sheila McFarlane playing in her first tournament