The Victorian state gateball championships were a great tournament this year despite not being able to hold the tournament the year prior due to the pandemic. Teams contesting for the title of Vic state champions were Essendon, Kew, Hazelbrook/Strathfield and Albury/Yarrawonga.

The weather was on our side after a little drizzle during the first game of the round robin. In true Melbourne fashion though we went from wet weather clothing to shorts and polo shirts within 20 min as the sun came out. The games were all played to an extremely high standard and were wonderful to spectate. A huge thanks to all those who assisted as referees during the event.

The teams event came down to an all-Victorian final of Kew vs Essendon. Kew managed to come out on top after a hard fought final and retain their state title for another year, making this the third year in a row that they have won the championship.

The pairs event was similarly an exciting affair to spectate with all pairs competing to an extremely high standard. The final came down to Philip and Clare from Vic and Penny and John from NSW who had a very exciting match indeed. The match was action packed until the end and is available to watch at your leisure here.

The event was a huge success with the championship being held in a local Melbourne club for the first time in some years. Many thanks to the Elsternwick Croquet Club for hosting the event and for arranging lunch for the competitors on both days.

Written by Anthony Dask
Assistant Director of Gateball Victoria
President Elsternwick Croquet Club Victoria

Gateball Australia
Website
http://www.gateball.com.au/

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/Gateball-Australia-493076234074625/