Write a commentFort Ontario will host its first ever croquet themed weekend May 23 and 24. The event will be held inside the old stone fort from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturday May 23, and 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sunday May 24. All ages are welcome, normal fort admission rates will apply.
Croquet is a golf-like sport that is typically played with six players, each getting their own mallet and color coded ball. The United States was caught up in a croquet-fueled frenzy in the 19th century, especially during Fort Ontario's interpretive period of the late 1860's, and the sport quickly became the hottest craze in America and Great Britain. Although played casually today, croquet was an intense cutthroat sport that brought out the fiercest competitive nature of anyone who played.
Saturday May 23 will be an "open" play day, allowing visitors to choose from any of the eight courses within the old stone fort. After a hard fought game of croquet, players can treat themselves to lemonade and ice cream, served by the Friends of Fort Ontario.
Sunday May 24 will introduce the competitive tournament for the Fort Ontario Croquet Cup. Since space for the tournament is limited, there will only be 48 spots given to those who pre-register. The tournament will open at 11:00 AM with six players on each of the eight courses. The winner of each course will play for the championship on the parade ground course to start at 2:00 PM.
Normal fort admission will be charged for both days; $4 for adults, $3 for seniors and students, and 12 and under and active military FREE. For questions, or to pre-register for the tournament call (315)-343-4711, or visit online at fortontario.com and follow Fort Ontario on Facebook for updates.
