A croquet enthusiast from Portishead recently took part in his seventh world championship.
Marcus Evans, who is a member of the Nailsea and District Croquet Club (NDCC), travelled to Florida to compete in the Association Croquet World Championship.
Balancing his practising sessions and top UK tournaments with work and family life, Marcus qualified from the initial group stage for the 32-player knockout stage.
However, he was knocked out by the top Spanish player.
In the consolation round, Marcus managed to defeat an up-and-coming talent from New Zealand but eventually lost to a former world champion from England, who won the event.
Reflecting on his experience, Mr Evans said: "I felt incredibly fortunate to be able to compete against the world's best players at a fabulous venue in Florida.
"In fact, it was my third visit there, and the playing conditions were better than ever.
"I prepared as well as I could and was in it to win it.
"Sadly, it just wasn't to be this time, but I'll be back to challenge again in the future."
He added: "Croquet is a great sport for all ages, so there's still time for me – the player I ultimately lost against won his first world title at the age of 62.
"But the very best players in the world are mostly under 40, and if you take up the game in your teens or twenties, there's every chance you could do the same if you put your mind to it.
"Nailsea and District Croquet Club is always looking to welcome new players of all ages and abilities, with our youngest members being 10 years old and our oldest in their 90s.
"It's closed for the winter now, but social activities continue year-round, and we look forward to the playing season starting again in April.
"I'd recommend croquet to anyone who enjoys gentle exercise of both mind and body; it's a great combination that no other sport can match."
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