FIVE members of the Basingstoke Hockey Club represented England at the recent Europe Masters Championships, writes BECKY DONALDSON.

In Antwerp, Sue Pett brought back gold for the Ladies O65’s, Miranda Smith representing England LX 065s took gold in the Trophy whilst Richard Slater returned with silver for Men’s O65s.

Ian Pett also represented Scotland at 070s, while Sue Pett and Smith then followed their success, coached by Ian Pett at the inaugural Ladies O65s seven-a-side regional tournament where they won gold yet again representing the South.

Sarah Mainprise-Tait, the club's most capped England representative, struck gold yet again alongside team manager Cath Mainprise-Tait with the England O55s Masters team in Krefeld, Germany.

They beat Scotland in the final 2-0, after a semi-final success against Wales.

Sarah Mainprise-Tait is one of only five Ladies Masters to have seven gold medals from World Cups and European Cups.

Clare Griffiths represented England Women’s O40’s in the European Championships in Rotterdam and Home Nations Cups.

She came away with golds from both tournaments and finished her summer off with another gold medal, captaining the Army Women’s Masters team at the European Masters Games in Turin. Particular highlights were scoring on her debut against Ireland, one against Scotland and a crowd pleaser against the Netherlands on their home turf.

Pre-season training has now returned, through August Ladies and Men on Wednesday and Thursday evenings.

If you are interested in joining them, starting up hockey for the first time, or getting back into it at after a break, now’s the time. Get in touch on news@basingstoke-hockey.com