New Life Member Lynne Maurer.
The Harden Polocrosse Club held a highly successful carnival last fortnight at the Harden Racecourse. Clubman Peter Beal was very happy with the number of teams entered and optimistic for the club’s future which boasts over 60 years in existence. “We had 30 teams play over the weekend which is up from last years numbers. A highlight of the weekend was when Lyn Maurer was awarded life membership of the club. She has been involved for 3 decades and practically runs the whole carnival each year, she is great. She even completes the whole draw.” The carnival also witnessed the resurgence of many younger players entering the sport. There were16 sub junior players said Peter, with Harden fielding 3 sides in A, B and C grades.
The recent rainfalls have played havoc with matches in the north of New South wales with a side from Warren making the trek to the Harden carnival. The Harden fields inside the racecourse perimeter drain well and provided a lush surface for the competitors. The field saw plenty of action over the two days. Ben Manwaring from Jugiong claimed the Peter Beal Senior Trophy for the best A grade male over the weekend. Peter praised the efforts of the younger players who have just taken on the sport. “They can’t wait to play again, they had an absolute ball.” He said. The Tumut carnival is next on the calendar and will be held at Tarcutta before the Jugiong Carnival commences, the following week. Players and supporters enjoyed a bbq and music around the camp fire before awakening for the early morning matches on Sunday morning. Albury beat Jugiong in the A grade final in a close match running out winners 16-14.
The Harden sides were out of contention for a finals berth after playing their matches on Sunday morning. Peter made special mention of the skills of youngster Brianna Trembath who plays for Jugiong. “She played a brilliant game in the final against much older players from both sexes. It was a huge effort from her, she is a very good player.” The Harden Club hopes to field 3 sides at Jugiong but may only be able to muster 2 for Tumut. Peter was happy to offer an insight in to the game he has played since 1972. “Anyone with some horsemanship can play Polocrosse, its an inexpensive past time. Men and women play each other and its an even contest because it’s more about the skill of the horse than just the competitors ability. We have two players who are in their seventies still playing for us.”
If anyone is interested in playing Polocrosse they can contact Peter Beal on 0412 486 404, Kevin Bradford on 63 862 135 or Paul O’Connor on 0438 600 741. The A grade side included: Sam Brett, Jake Varena, Josh Bradford, Molly Spackman, Kevin Bradford and Michael Hunter. B grade included: Meg Perceval, Ian Keith, Peter Beal, Emma Hunter, Paul O’Connor and Brett Minougue. C grade included: Grace Lehane, Ellis Hayes, Will Metcalfe, Tilly Metcalfe, Brooke Hunter and Lucy Hayes
