24/08/2026
THE SPALDING TROPHY 2026
The Tournament, played at Knightswood, Glasgow on Saturday 22nd August. It is an Open AC, Alternative Stroke Doubles (no bisques), Advanced Rules,26pt, 2hrs 45mins time limit, all play all format. John and Bill, as holders, were hoping to defend the Trophy this year. Unfortunately, on his return form a cruise, John had developed “covid” type symptoms and was forced to withdraw. Luckly a “replacement” was found namely Alistair Burn Murdoch (one of the best Scottish based players) but rather than pair him with me the manager decided to rearrange the pairs based on handicaps. The revised teams were Alistair Burn Murdoch/Dave McLaughlin, Stefan Colling/Emma Jamie, Brian Durward/Steve Barnett and Roger Binks/Bill Strachan.
Roger/Bill played Brian/Steve, who got off to good start with Roger/Bill trying to come to terms with the lawn’s bumps and speed. It was closely fought match but eventually Roger/Bill pulled ahead to win 19-14. Stephan/Emma had an excellent win against Alistair/Dave 17-11
Roger/Bill then had to play Stefan/Emma who got off to a great start and it was almost an hour before Roger/Bill scores their first hoop which was hoop 2. The reason being Stefan/Emma had peeled one of our balls through hoop 1 and the other through hoop1 and 2. There is a Peeling Prize for the team that peels the most balls whether your own or an opponent’s. They were obviously looking to win that prize as well. With Stefan controlling the match and Emma playing well they eventually won 19-11 Brian/Steve now played Alistair/Dave and although it was close for a while Alistair/Dave proved to strong and won 22-12
Last Round Roger/Bill against Alistair/Dave who played steadily giving Roger/Bill few opportunities and produced the only peg out of the tournament winning 26-11. Stefan/Emma against Brian/Steve was a must win for Stefan/Emma to ensure victory. It was a closely contested match but Stefan/Emma eventually scrapped through 18-14.
Winning all their matches Stefan and Emma were deserved winners of The Spalding Trophy and icing on the cake they also were clear winners of the Peeling Prize with 6 peels. It was refreshing to see younger players winning the Trophy.
Thanks to Steve Barnett for managing and organizing the event. Roger and Brian agreeing to act as referees and Glasgow Croquet Club for providing a pizza lunch with zero alcohol and soft drinks. Eleanor for presenting the Trophy and everyone who helped set up and dismantle the lawns.
