Atlanta News First Reporter Joshua Skinner came out to the Georgia Cup at Peachtree Hills Place and spoke with Peachtree Hills Place Member Wade Coleman and United States Croquet Association President Damon Bidencope about croquet and its growing popularity.
Peachtree Hills Place Croquet Club hosted the inaugural United States Croquet Association (USCA) Georgia Cup Tournament on Saturday, April 22 and Sunday, April 23 for two days of intense croquet competition by top players from throughout the state of Georgia, several who are ranked amongst the best national players. The tournament, sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead and TheKey took place in the Peachtree Hills Place Central Courtyard, which features two TifEagle Bermuda grass regulation-sized croquet lawns – the only regulation-sized lawns in Atlanta.
From casual play to competitive matches, croquet’s popularity is on the rise as Americans seek more outdoor social activities that promote a healthy lifestyle. Adding to the sport’s popularity is the multigenerational aspect as people of all ages can be competitive. Many golf clubs, resorts, and municipal parks have added croquet courts to the mix, as croquet is one of the fastest growing sports among active adults – second to pickleball.
“In the last 45 years, we have over 250 clubs and probably over 10,000 people playing tournament croquet across the country,” Bidencope said.
When asked why he enjoys croquet so much, Coleman shared that it is the camaraderie and the competition. “You get to know people. You get to meet new people out here.”
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