After taking a day off to enjoy President's Day here in the U.S., it was devasting to wake up to news of a major earthquake in New Zealand that has reportedly killed 65 people. Obviously, any tragedy is upsetting, but I think many croquet players feel a connection to the area.
This message was posted by Chris Clarke on the Nottingham list:
Thanks to Jane and the dozens of others who have already sent their good wishes. Todays earthquake was much more serious in terms of damage within Christchurch than the Sept quake. We already have 65 dead and this figure may exceed 200 by the time all the rubble has been cleared. Massive areas of the city have suffered serious liquefaction and there will be tens of thousands homeless.
I was at United at the time of the quake and for those of you who know the club, the golf club nearby suddenly developed about 300 new "bunkers" as grey silt seeped out of the ground and water started bubbling out of the ground. The United lawns, at first inspection, are still in one piece.
At this stage, telecoms have only just been restored and I have only been able to check on immediate family. I hope to be able to give an update on the 15 Canterbury clubs later this week.
In the meantime, if there are any Canterbury players who need accommodation, please contact either Jenny or myself. Thank you all for your good wishes.
Chris
President CCA