When Croquet Meets Vietnam: A Vintage Game’s New Playground
Picture this: a dusty lawn outside a quiet pagoda in Soc Son, Hanoi. The sound of a wheeled mallet clacking against a plastic ball fills the air. Traditionally, croquet is a game that belonged to London’s bright‑eyed lawn‑gazers, but here, it’s become the secret pastime of a group of retirees who’re eager to keep both their bodies and brains in motion.
Who’s Playing?
- Nguyen Van Tuu, a spry 93‑year‑old who calls the game “brain‑work and a gentle dance.”
- Le Thanh Do, a 66‑year‑old former soldier who admits, “We’re addicted to this sport. When it rains, we wish there was a sunny day.”
- A handful of other seniors who show up every afternoon, their ages ranging from early 60s to the late 90s.
History Meets Hanoi
Croquet first popped up in the 19th century, quickly winning the hearts (and sockets) of affluent Brits. It later became the darling of backyard lawns worldwide. In Vietnam, however, the sport was “found” by a local stand‑up in 1996—someone who thought an old-fashioned game could spark joy among the retirees in Soc Son.
How They Play
These folks use handcrafted metal and wooden mallets—definitely a bit more rustic than the polished ones you’ll likely see in England. The balls? Imported from China, but otherwise as ordinary as a plastic ball with a sticker. They keep track of points with a makeshift leaderboard that’s almost worth the effort to create.
Why It Matters
Take the realities of Vietnamese seniors.
- It’s gentle, so arm strain is minimal.
- It’s mentally stimulating—each shot requires strategy.
- It’s a social sport, bringing laughs and friendly competition.
Common Sayings from the Players
- “It relaxes our spirit.”
- “If we can’t play because of rain, we really miss it and hope for a dry day.”
- “We’re addicted to this sport.”
For these retirees, croquet isn’t just a pastime—it’s a daily dose of fun, fitness, and community. And who knew that from the ball parks of England to the pagoda lawns of Hanoi, a simple game could keep dreams alive and minds sharp?
