Australian Under 21 Tournaments conclude with singles.
The Championships concluded on 13 February 2025 with the best of three singles final, in which Ethan Gumbrell (Canberra) beat Michael McLean (Golden Square) 7:2 7:3.
Ethan dominated the tournament, with nine wins from nine games in the round robin.
Michael McLean placed second at the end of the round robin. He played exceptionally well, winning seven of his nine games, including defeating three players ranked above him. Although it doesn’t show in the scoreline, he contested every hoop in the final, with some excellent clearance shots and placements.
Third and fourth at the end of the round robin were Jamie Fleming (Kingston, Tas), and James Wombwell (Casterton, Victoria), both on six wins, followed by Ben Bowen (Nowra NSW) and Peter Crook (Woodville, SA) both on five wins.
The range of handicaps in this event was strikingly wide, from -1 to 16, though most of the competitors were playing off handicaps of 6 to 8. It was pleasing that every player in the event won at least one game.
There was a great spirit of camaraderie in this tournament – including some very welcome sharing of watermelon and a surge of activity by everyone to pack up the courts at the end of play. Many thanks to everyone who contributed, including the Croquet Victoria volunteers who set up the courts and briefed the tournament organiser, Terri and Bill Manwaring who provided catering, the referee team led by Graham Smith (including Croquet Australia representative Jacky McDonald), and all the parents, grandparents and siblings who came along in support. Special thanks to Greater Western Water, who donated 50 water bottles. Wonderful to be able to ensure everyone could keep hydrated – these Under 21 events included several very hot days.
We look forward to seeing all the competitors – and hopefully friends they have enticed into the game – at the 2026 Under 21 tournaments in Hobart next January. (Croquet Victoria – Facebook)
Full results on Croquetscores.
