The 2nd edition of the Women’s GC Invitation was played at Waipu Croquet Club in Northland over the first weekend of March.
The 10 entrants were treated to a bagpipe performance to open proceedings on the Friday. The format was a round robin block of best of three game matches.
Defending champion Ashley Cooke (Bay of Plenty) got off to a strong start, defeating young up-and-comer Mattie Clarkson (Counties Manukau) and Waipu local Jean Kent in the early rounds. Early competition came in the form of Helen Reeves (Hawkes Bay) and Nicola Clement (South Taranaki), who both won their first two matches.
These three players continued to set the pace, winning the bulk of their matches in straight games heading into Sunday. Mattie Clarkson also shook off early nerves with some impressive wins through the weekend, including one against Helen Reeves.
The tournament culminated in a showdown between Helen Reeves and Ashley Cooke in the final round of matches, as Nicola Clement had earlier lost to Jean Kent. The winner between Ashley and Helen would take the Geoff Young Trophy. Ashley won the first game 7-4, but Helen’s international experience came to the fore as she won the remaining games 7-5, 7-4 to win the Women’s GC Invitation. This became her third piece of CNZ silverware. Ashley Cooke finshed second with 7 wins and 42 net hoops ahead of Nicola Clement in third, also with seven wins.
CNZ would like to thank the players, organisers and volunteers for a memorable weekend that was greatly enjoyed by players and spectators alike.
Full scores here.
