November 6 and Jeanette and I, and a few fellow-members from the Waikanae Croquet Club travel down to Plimmerton, a part of Porirua just north of Wellington on State Highway 1, to attend a morning coaching course at the Plimmerton Croquet Club lawns and clubhouse.
On an icy morning, we were greeted by well-known international Greg Bryant as coach for the course. Greg has represented New Zealand as a member of the MacRobertson Shield Test team in 1993, 2003 and 2006 and in the Trans-Tasman Team in 2004 and 2006. Greg has played in 4 World Croquet Championships and also represented New Zealand at Sonoma-Cutrer on three occasions. Greg holds two NZ Open Doubles titles, 1 NZ President's top 10 Invitation title, three English Silver Medals and two NZCC Silver Mallets.
We were given a lengthy lecture-address on the various elements and techniques of Golf Croquet by Greg Bryant. This was followed by a stint outside on the greens to put into practice what we had just learned. Icy cold wind and a gentle drizzle ripped through Plimmerton while we were outside. Then back inside for the smoke-o in the warm of the clubhouse, followed by another two hours of training techniques.
We came away from Plimmerton the richer in knowledge from the brain and mouth of a world-class champion. I think we learned sufficient to be able to start playing with resolve. Naturally, we cannot expect to walk out and beat everyone we meet, but I shall certainly make an effort to do my best possible on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
(Above): I understand that the grounds are maintained by one single member. He must have the energy and dedication of a superhuman -- the place is so immaculate.
(Above): A general view of the six Plimmerton lawns.
(Above): Greg stands at the head of the class, ready with whiteboard chalk at hand.
(Above): An overhead projection of the course showing a photo of Greg lining up a shot.
(Above): A few other club members from Waikanae Club chat over a cuppa at the 10:30 smoke-o.
No comments:
Post a Comment