Croquet has entered the big league with famous Australian Retailer Retravision throwing its weight behind the sport down under.
Dozens of the world’s best croquet players will gather in Western Australia in October for the World Over 50’s title being hosted by the Moorabinda Croquet Club in Bunbury.
It’s a real coup for the sport in Australia and W.A. to have a sponsor with the reputation of Retravision coming onboard. The Award Winning electrics appliance company is not only famous for its retail success, but its community minded approach to business. It has sponsored and linked with numerous organizations through the years. Now croquet is set to benefit from the company’s generosity.
The Over 50 World Championship is one of a handful of international events regarded as the pinnacles of the sport. 48 players from all over the will compete over 8 days, in an event held just once every four years.
The event not only attracts the best players, but when you add supporters, officials, and spectators from across Australia and the world, the championship will prove a real boost for the local economy and tourist businesses.
Prior to the Championships, a 4-day qualifying tournament will be held in Perth for those players hoping to snare one of the precious remaining spots in the field.
Everyone is welcome to call-in, watch the action, and cheer on the Aussies as they take on old sporting foes from England, as well as leading croquet nations Egypt, the United States and New Zealand. No Aussie has ever won the title.
For many in the wider community, croquet remains a bit of mystery. People on manicured lawns, hitting coloured balls around with a giant hammer. But the reality is, it’s a game of skill, patience and nuance, and what better way to become familiar with the sport than to watch some of the best in the world in action.
Almost all croquet clubs in Australia offer free come and try days for newcomers.
Moorabinda Club would be thrilled to see as many spectators as possible at the championships from 14th-21st of October. And while you’re there, ask about giving this fascinating sport a go.