Bowdon’s team in the Croquet North West AC Handicap League played at Southport on Sunday 12th May. Sadly, our hopes of a winning start to the season were not fulfilled, and we lost by 3 games to 4. Southport’s lawns were no more challenging than on previous occasions, so they must have worked hard to make ready for our visit. The weather was good with a fair amount of sun and no rain during play. In the morning we lost the doubles, and John’s singles against Bill (handicap 8). David won our only game against David Venables (handicap 14). In the afternoon we shared the games. Alan was overrun with Bill’s 8.5 bisques. David obtained a lead and kept it, until the later stages of his game when his more experienced opponent Peter (handicap 16) finished strongly. John won his singles against Gail (handicap 10) after struggling for most of the game yet staying in contention. When Gail’s bisques were used up John achieved a small break to go one ahead on his penultimate turn, and then add another hoop on his final turn. Ed was always ahead against David Venables (handicap 14) who was more experienced. Southport CC provided some very nice biscuits and cakes. David drove us safely and comfortably and we generally had a good day out.
The team, with handicaps, was as follows:
Southport’s team was, Bill Nicholl 8, Gail Moore 10, David Venables 14 and Peter Williamson 16.
The morning results were:
Alan and Ed lost to Gail and Peter 9-13, John lost to Bill -6 on time and David Beddy beat David Williamson +6 on time.
The afternoon singles results were:
Alan lost to Bill -24, David Beddy lost to Peter -6 on time, John beat Gail +2 on time and Ed beat David Williamson +7 on time.