BENDIGO\u2019S own croquet aces Mandy Banks and Phil DeAraugo will face the state\u2019s best in this weekend\u2019s Victorian Open in Melbourne.<\/p>\n
After a successful run in regional tournaments, Banks and DeAraugo will take to the greens at Cairnlea for Saturday\u2019s and Sunday\u2019s play.<\/p>\n
The DeAraugo family has many links to sport across central and northern Victoria.<\/p>\n
Among this season\u2019s highs for Banks and DeAraugo were victory in Williamstown\u2019s tournament.<\/p>\n
The Bendigo duo have attained world rankings and train with the Victorian croquet squad.<\/p>\n
An accomplished golfer, DeAraugo is at number 10 in Victoria\u2019s golf rankings and is president of the Bendigo Croquet Club.<\/p>\n
\u201cCroquet is a fun and social game this is easy to learn and is drawing many young people to the game,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a game of strategy that has you using your brain and hand-eye co-ordination.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are opportunities to play socially or travel around to compete at tournaments.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a sport that has something for everyone and is open to people of all ages and abilities.\u201d<\/p>\n
Based in Barnard Street, Bendigo Croquet Club welcomes new and experienced players with social games are played from 9am on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.<\/p>\n