McIlwraith Challenge Cup, 2017

The QLD Gateball intraclub competitions were off to a very good start with the first tournament being held at McIlwraith Croquet Club in Brisbane on 8th and 9th April. The dates were somewhat later than usual and only just avoided the sort of rainfall that we have experienced in previous years. However, only just!

One week prior to the tournament, the south eastern part of Queensland suffered very strong winds and extremely heavy rainfall from the ex-Tropical Cyclone Debbie. The fields were covered with water and there was water a foot deep through the lower level of the the clubhouse. An amazing amount of work by club members cleared the mess and prepared the court with very clear markings. The courts were very green, somewhat slower than normal but in very good condition. Great work, McIlwraith members!

There were 9 teams competing altogether which is a good for the sport. It was a very dedicated pair of players ( Cheryl and Steven Kele) who travelled all the way from Rockhampton to compete even though their city was being flooded in many areas. Several composite teams were formed and this was a successful arrangement for all concerned. In addition, two teams representing the local club of McIlwraith and two teams from Southport were competing.

All of the games were played on time with an hour between the games. So many games were closely contested with decisions on winners made only on a countback. By Sunday morning games there were three teams vying for the Challenge Cup. It wasn’t until the final game that the placings were finalised. Third place went to Toowoomba. Second place went to McIlwraith Blue Macs. The winning team was the Southport Red team. It was the third time in a row that Southport has won the McIlwraith Challenge. (see results on gateballscores.com)