[<<] [>>] by Nigel Polhill at Hunstanton Croquet Club
5-9 Sep 2014 (AC - Championships)

Levels of incompetence reached unparalleled proportions on Day 3 of the TT at Sunny Hunny as the players only managed 2 1/2 rounds. The previous night's fish and chip supper and copious bottles of wine were definitely not to be blamed.

Incompetence was less observable on Day 4 as we almost caught up with the schedule. A play-off looks highly likely tomorrow however. An interesting fact was discovered at dinner: The national polecat survey is conducted by the Vincent Wildlife Trust.
At 4pm on Day 5 we find ourselves (as expected) with a definite play-off. It will be Luc and Sam unless the manager can win both of his remaining unfinished games.

By 5pm the manager had indeed won both games. He and Sam are now starting a 14pt advanced play-off semi (1.5 hr time limit) with Luc awaiting in the final.

Sam gained an early lead which was reined in by Nigel who pegged out Sam's forward ball. As time approached the scores were level allowing Nigel to go ahead by also pegging out his forward ball leaving Sam just a long shot, which he missed:
Polhill bt Murray +1(T) (9-8 from memory). This meant that the final also had to be 14pt advanced with a 1.5 hour time limit, with the distinct possibility of finishing in complete darkness. Luc got ahead early with some excellent long hoop approaches. Nigel had a couple of chances but could not really take advantage. As time (and darkness) approached, Luc was well ahead and attempted a finishing turn which nearly ended in disaster as he rushed a ball into a hoop, both of which he could hardly see! He joined up mid-lawn not realising time would be called before Nigel could shoot. Nigel missed, however, meaning Luc had won the title - although he did insist on taking his final turn and indeed managed to finish the game:
Berthouze bt Polhill +7.

So Luc Berthouze won the 2014 Treasurer's Tankard. After a slow start, he played very well; congratulations.

And a huge thank you to Hunstanton Croquet Club for being such excellent hosts. This wonderful club deserves to be on everybody's "must visit" list.

Positions after 14 Rounds

Peeling Statistics

Margin Statistics

Results