Jean Pack, Milton’s queen of croquet, returned home from the prestigious Eire Cup a silver medalist.
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Pack has played numerous elite competitions including the World Croquet Federation Women’s Association.
In October 2012 she was selected for the New South Wales Croquet team to compete in the Eire Cup.
The Eire Cup is an interstate competition that takes place every year on the same day as the Australian Men’s and Women’s Singles Championships.
Pack was thrilled with the New South Wales team’s placing in the grueling event.
“Actually croquet can be but it’s very physical,” Pack said.
“The days are long and you’re playing games from 7am to 6pm and walking close to five kilometers a day.
“Our team did very well in the competition.”
The Eire Cup, a silver rose bowl, bears the inscription “Irish International Eire Cup” and was won by a croquet Australian team in 1937.
When the Australian Croquet Council was formed in 1949, the cup became its property and the interstate Eire Cup competition started.
Eight players from each state are selected, four men and four women, to battle it out on the field.
Pack said that the Eire Cup is unique for a sport is usually played by individuals.
“It was a different environment to play in a team for a sport that is always played by an individual,” she said.
“It was a great mixed team and we had to work together to win 11 games.”
Pack played with the best of the best at the Brisbane tournament and said she learnt a lot during the matches.
“I’ve learnt a lot in this competition and now I really think I can hold my own,” she said.
“In one game I had to play against the women’s world champion, Alison Sharp, and I was really nervous but I got through it.
“If there’s one thing I learnt from my trip, it’s that I can play against anyone.”
Pack has played golf, tennis and squash and said she loves the croquet.
“I remember someone invited me to play at the Milton and I thought this is a sport for little old ladies,” she said.
“I soon realised it wasn’t, what I love about croquet is that is you have to think.
“There is a lot of strategy involved in trying to get the ball in the right place and to outthink your opponent.”