18/08/2026
THE 2026 HI-LO DOUBLES
The 2026 AC Hi-Lo Doubles event was held at Eastern Shore Croquet Club over the three days 14 – 16 August 2026. Ten teams entered and due to this number of competitors, the event was split into two blocks of five with the two Block winners facing off in the Final.
The competition was played in variable weather conditions with Friday being somewhat cold and wet, followed up by two beautiful days over the weekend.
The winner of Block A was the local team of Clair and Geoff Tomlin who finished off their final game in sensational style to knock off fellow locals Noel Davies and Jeff Suffolk on golden hoop. The Block B winners were Carol Hangian from Sandy Bay and John Lee-Archer from Devonport. They went through undefeated, beating Liz Madden from Sandy Bay and John Hutchison from Eastern Shore.
The Final was a hard-fought battle with the Hanigan / Lee- Archer team seemingly in control for a good part of the game and appearing to be the likely winners. However, the Tomlin combination never gave up and came home with a late flurry which had the spectators on their feet. However, the early deficit proved too much and Carol and John came out on top 9 – 7. They were indeed worthy winners, being unbeaten over their five games. Their standard of roqueting was outstanding and was probably the difference between the two teams in the end.
Congratulations go out to all players for a really interesting and competitive event, played in great spirit and it confirmed there are some “newbies” to the AC format who have real ability and have a bright future in the game.
Special thanks go out to Ian Smith who managed the event (assisted in part by Daryl Jacobs) and Lizzie Bassett (with help from Bob Beattie) who did a sterling job in refereeing over the three days. As usual, the catering volunteers from the Eastern Shore Club did a marvellous job in keeping everyone nourished and our sincere thanks go to those ladies for a job well done.
We now look forward to the 2027 event.