No Jumping during winter croquet Winter rules: NO jumping says the notice on the club board at Plimmerton Croquet

Club. Considering the less than balmy conditions in which some games are being played at the moment this directive would seem to be a little harsh. A little discreet jumping on the spot might seem advisory to keep the blood circulating. Croquet players, however, know that jumping is the means by which the adroit and skilful can hit their ball so that it jumps over an opponents ball which is sitting, inconveniently, in the mouth of the hoop. Jump that, without dislodging the lower ball, and the hoop is yours to claim. Players cant jump in the winter because theres always the danger of dislodging a bit of damp lawn the resulting nick, or hole, in the lawn will cause no end of bother to following players and no end of distress to the lawn keepers. Plimmerton Croquet Club is one of very few in the Wellington region that is open for both Association and Golf Croquet right through the winter. Hardy souls who fancy a couple of hours out in the winter sun are very welcome. Just contact Club Captain Tom Berryman (236 8877) for details. And remember to keep your feet on the ground.

Contacts: Publicity: Alison Lloyd Davies, ph 2336485, ald@ihug.co.nz Club Captain: Tom Berryman, Ph 2368877, tom.berryman@xtra.co.nz