Apologies for not keeping up with the program. Long days in rather warm conditions took its toll and by the time I arrived back at our accommodation, the eyes were quick to close!
Day 4
Another visit to Norwood with the temperature predicted to reach the high 30’s. In preparation, a 7:30am start for all teams.
The three main clubs hosting the EIRE Cup all did a magnificent job preparing the courts each morning and the lights got a good work out.
The night before, Ian needed to do some repair work on his mallet and so a quick trip to Bunnings was required. Ian was impressed with the performance of the glue he chose.
It turned out to be a tough day and after the first two rounds, we were tied 6 all with Tasmania. After an extended lunch due to the temperature reaching 39.7, we headed back on court mid afternoon and thankfully, gained our first win. WA 11 vs Tas 9.
It was actually quite windy and during my 1st singles game, I was greated by a flying gazebo tumbling across the lawn. Lots of ice, spray bottles of water and some icy poles helped us all manage the heat.
Highlights
- Our first test win!
- Megan winning both singles matches.
Day 5
Back to Hutt Road but with a twist. They decided to move the games from South Terrace to Hyde Park after the doubles and so one lawn was double banked for the doubles. It was another early start.
The lawns were great but I found them very slow. Took a fair bit of effort to hit from one end of the court to the other.
Queensland played really well and the results never went our way. Qld 15 vs WA 5.
Highlights
- A great experience for us all to represent WA again.
- Watching Chris Borlase demonastrating how to play a break of 9 and 12.
Winners
EIRE CUP – Victoria
Runners Up – NSW
Men’s Singles – Dwayne McCormick
Women’s Singles – Yuni Rowell
Full results on Croquetscores.
Many thanks to Croquet South Australia,the host clubs and the amazing volunteers for putting on such a fantastic event. We hope to see you all again in WA next year for the 76th Edition of the EIRE Cup.
