For a small club like Blewbury to take on mighty Nottingham in the national Short Croquet team final is an heroic achievement. Having won their place 8-3 against York, hopes were high for King’s men as they closed in on Sherwood Forest. As is his custom during his current hot streak, Joe led from the front in the morning games, winning his singles. Brian Jamieson and Andrew Petit were touched off in the doubles by a stand out roll up by Nottingham captain Andrew Beaumont. 1-2
As the sun came out, Joe and Andrew won their afternoon singles. 3-4. All to play for in the final round: 3 wins would clinch the cup. Andy E was the conqueror this time with a convincing 14-6 against Beaumont, but his team mates fell short, leaving Nottingham with a 7-4 margin. Peeling a hoop in the wrong direction may haunt Joe for a while, but he goes home with the knowledge that all his team members were competitive at the highest level. They will be back next year.

