Croquet, not just a game for the posh
JOBURG - Croquet, in many societies, is stereotyped as a posh sport.
Maria Watermeyer who heads up the South African Croquet Club told the Gazette that anyone can play, and the game is not reserved for any particular group.
She encourages people not to label the sport, but instead play as a social activity and learn how the rules work as you go along.
Golf croquet is a soft exercise sport that requires practice to improve one’s skills. The more you practice, the more stimulating the game will be.
Easy to learn, the game can be set up on the greens of bowls clubs or in the privacy of your own garden.
Suitable for all ages, croquet is usually played on an area the size of a tennis court, and takes about 45 minutes to an hour to finish.
Four different coloured balls are used in each game, and are either played as doubles with four players or singles with two players.
Six hoops are positioned on the field in a specific way creating an ‘H’ shape, and teams aim to get their ball through each hoop.
The game is played by striking a ball with a mallet and players follow their ball around the field attempting to hit it through the hoop.
Once the first ball has run the hoop, players move on to the next hoop in sequence, and the aim of the game is to attempt to run the hoop or stop your opponents from doing so.
“The manner in which the balls get through the hoop is the fun of the game,” said Watermeyer. “It is manipulative, destructive, and extremely mental.”
According to Watermeyer, the first team to reach seven hoops is the winner, and often, both teams celebrate with drinks at the bowls club.
Watermeyer believes the game is fun, active and entertaining, and a great way to meet new people.
She said the Croquet Club offered team building, hen parties and corporate end of year get-togethers at the Morningside Bowls Club.
Playing times are available on Wednesdays from 10am, Saturdays from 1.30pm and Sundays from 11am.
Details: Maria Watermeyer: 082-852-3850
