Our teams had a great time in Devon at the Ashbury Women’s Walking Football tournament this weekend. Arriving on Friday afternoon, the events started with an archery competition, won by Nic. After dinner and the obligatory photos, we moved on to darts and table tennis and then an early night, ready for the main event on the Saturday.
Saturday started bright and sunny, with the Over 55s competition first on the agenda. Our team of Clare G, Sue, Sarah, Siobhan, Kate, Lou, Clare B and Maggie did well in their group, beating Dawlish (1-0) and Bournemouth (2-0) and just losing out 1-0 against ultimate group winners, Pennydarren. This meant that 1874 were in the group of second place finishers for the next round, where we met Cardiff, Basingstoke and Boldmere St Micheals Bees. We lost 1-0 to both Cardiff and Basingstoke, but drew 0-0 against the Group 2 winners – Boldmere. A creditable performance in our first outing at this tournament.
The afternoon session saw a change in the weather, as the rain and wind spread across the pitches. Our Over 40s team were up to the task, a little bit of rain wasn’t going to stop us. The team consisted of Kelly, Mel, Nic, Katherine, Wendy and Jo in goal (on loan from Boldmere). Subs – Clare G and Maggie were on hand to provide support if needed. This competition was split into six groups and 1874 took on Exeter (0-0), Cwmbran (0-0) and Liverpool Feds (0-1 loss). By this time, spray was flying up as players walked across the pitches and one of the most popular spots on the field seemed to be the 1874 gazebo – so much so we did consider charging rent! At the end of the first round, the organisers offered teams in the 2nd, 3rd or 4th place groups, the choice to continue or to call it a day. We were up for the challenge and so we were scheduled to play TADS (Taunton and District) and another team (who subsequently bailed!) This final match against TADS was played in great spirit with loads of laughing and giggles – not that it matters – I think we lost 1-0. So that was the event over for this year, we all packed up and tried to get feeling back to our hands and feet!
Over 40’s team
The rest of the stay allowed us to try a range of sports and activities including padel tennis, pickle ball, air rifles, air pistols, 10 pin bowling, pool, swimming, gym and badminton. A special mention to Kate S for organising our social calendar – we hope that she will soon be fit to play, but thanks Kate, for coming along and looking after us.
We didn’t come away empty handed – 1874 won the prize for the happiest table at the presentation evening!!
This was a really well-organised tournament, with a perfect balance of competition and friendliness. Dawlish Women’s Walking Football Club put on a fantastic event, the venue is superb, great food, loads of activities and a beautiful area of the country. Definitely one for next year’s calendar.