FEATURE
CROQUET is okay!
Ryde Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club recently celebrated
its centenary, and although the vast majority of people
are familiar with tennis, for many croquet still remains
something of an enigma.
It is a highly skilful game – far more than just knocking
balls through hoops with a mallet – so Island Life thought
it was time for someone to shed more light on the game.
Ryde LT&CC match chairman Alan Truckel explained:
“Over recent years we have striven to make the game of
croquet better known on the Island. Many Islanders are
not even aware of the existence of our club.
“However, we have been organising croquet social events
for some time, and different groups who have visited the
club in the past have thoroughly enjoyed the experience,
simply because it’s so different. “We have 40 active
members, and our season runs from April until the end
of September. Croquet certainly helps to socialise; it is an
excellent form of gentle exercise; it provides an interest
to help occupy time and it may even stimulate an interest
in the game to want to learn and play more. Youngsters
from local schools have been able to take advantage of
coaching in the game and adults have been welcomed as
they try ‘Return to Sport’ courses.
“The club can tailor a social event to suit any needs,
whether it’s morning, afternoon or evening. All
equipment is provided and club members join the
sessions to help with the basic rules of the game and to
give general guidance.”
The modern game of croquet is thought to have
started in Ireland, with the game coming to England
in the 1850s. Rules of play were established and the
Wimbledon All England Croquet Club was formed in
1868. This club is now better known as Wimbledon All
England Tennis and Croquet Club.
The size of a tennis court is exactly half that of a croquet
lawn. In the early 1900s the sport was very popular but
was badly affected by both the World Wars and it was not
until the 1960s that younger players entered the game
resulting in a gradual resurgence of popularity.
Ryde Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club has four
full-size croquet lawns, and have hosted many national
competitions. There are two main games, Association
Croquet and Golf Croquet, and the difference between
them is often described as the difference between chess
and draughts. Ryde has had considerable success in both.
Anyone interested in finding more about croquet can
contact Alan Truckel on 01983 882371.
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www.visitislandlife.com