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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Croquet?
Croquet is played on a 35 x 28 yards completely flat and
closely-mown fine grass court.
Six cast-iron hoops and a
peg set firmly into the ground, four balls and some mallets.
There are two main types of Croquet played in the UK: Golf and
Association.
They have
different rules and tactics, but have the same basic objective
of getting a ball to go through a hoop. In both games the
Blue and Black balls
play against the Red and
Yellow.
What is the difference between
Golf Croquet and Association Croquet?
In
Golf Croquet players contest each hoop in turn, moving on to the next
as soon as each one is scored. Balls are played in strict sequence and each player has one shot per turn.
In
Association Croquet there is only one player on the lawn and
each player may start his turn with either of his balls. He can use the other balls to continue his
turn, extra strokes are earned by causing the ball you are hitting with your
mallet (the "Striker's Ball") either to run its hoop or to hit
another ball, and might run several hoops in one turn,
as a break – rather
like snooker.
There is a simplified version of Association called Garden Croquet, which is a good way to start.
See the Croquet
England website for more information.
Which form is easier to play?
Golf
Croquet is generally considered to be an easier way to start playing
croquet. Both forms of the game start with simple ideas but offer
rich opportunities for tactical thinking. The result is a
combination of skill and strategy not normally found in outdoor games.
Does one play singles or doubles?
Both forms of Croquet can be played as singles or doubles. In singles, each player has two balls; in doubles,
each player plays with one.
How can I try it out?
Look up your nearest club to find out
more about the outdoor sport that keeps you physically and
mentally fit, providing a social yet competitive environment – all our
clubs welcome new members. Taster activities
are available on
National
Croquet Day. The only requirements are an interest in the game
and a pair of flat-soled shoes.
When is a Croquet season?
The
Croquet
England
fixtures calendar starts in Spring and the last event is in
October. Most clubs follow suit, some will decide to play
longer, depending on the weather.
Is it expensive?
Clubs provide hoops, balls and mallets,
so the only cost is your club membership which is not expensive – much less
than golf clubs for example. Membership costs start at around £20 - see
our
Member Clubs page. Full Premium
Croquet
England subscription is £45.50. Tournament entry fees also vary but
most are around £12 per day.
Where can I find out more?
On the Croquet
England website.
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