Paul Skinley

(New Zealand)

Born: 1959

Paul Skinley, dubbed the "Earl of Elegance" by Jack Kelleher in the mid 90's, started Croquet at a very young age at the Rangatira Club in Dannevirke where his mother was a very active member. He first won the North Island Open Singles in 1974 and the next season was runner up to Bob Jackson in the N.Z. Open, but in 1980 and 1981 the roles were reversed and Paul was the winner. He won his third N.Z. Open title in 1985 with an immaculate display of precision croquet on lightening fast courts, defeating Joe Hogan in the final.

Paul returned to prominence coming 2nd in the 2006 New Zealand Open to Robert Fulford. A very unlucky ankle injury prevented him from taking part in the 2006 MacRobertson Shield but, with his current form, Paul is a strong favourite to still be in contention in the later stages of the 2008 World Championships.

AC Playing Record