The involvement of Howick Croquet Club’s youngest member, 19-year-old Mattie Clarkson, in a tournament overseas is evidence the sport is for people of all ages.
Clarkson recently returned from having represented New Zealand at the U21 GC World Championships in the United States.
The Howick Croquet Club’s Veneta Hansen says it was the seventh edition of the games and was hosted at the Sarasota Country Croquet Club in Florida.
There were five New Zealanders in the field of 28 players from 12 countries, she says.
Clarkson says the tournament started with four blocks of seven players, with 16 players qualifying for the knockout stage.
“All five New Zealanders reached the knockout stage after finishing at least third in their respective blocks.
“This is an incredible result, having all five players in the final 16.”
Clarkson played well but sadly didn’t reach the finals.
The competition was eventually won by Levi Franks from Cashmere Croquet Club in Canterbury.
At the awards ceremony the players were credited with their competitive spirit, dedication to the game, outstanding play and exemplary behaviour, Hansen says.
“Mattie worked hard to raise money for her trip, which was self-funded, but the experience of competing overseas and the travel to a new country would have made it all worthwhile.
“She collected memorabilia in the way of hat badges and shirts, which she will no doubt look back on and remember her achievements.
“She also has a clipping from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, featuring her and her mascot, Howie, however, she was mistakenly labelled ‘English’.
“Mattie is safely back on New Zealand soil ready for the next challenge to come her way and in the meantime, she’ll keep striving to be the best.”
