EIGHT Cumbrians were involved in an international masters hockey World Cup in the Netherlands.
The players and officials represented England, LX Hockey Club and other sides during the competition in Breda.
The event brought together teams from countries including England, the Netherlands, Australia, Argentina, Germany and Spain.
Andy Bradbury, who plays for England B, won a bronze medal in his league. Keith Richardson was vice-captain of the LX Red squad, which finished fifth out of nine teams.
Keith is a member of LX Hockey Club, a club for players aged over 60.
England aims to field two teams at each age group, beginning at about 35 and increasing in five-year steps.
Other Cumbrians involved included Andy Holden from Ulverston, who was part of the over-80s team that won silver, and Jeff Jackson from Windermere. Phil Hyman played in the over-60s, Paul Heap while Mark Kendrick attended as an umpire.
Mike Patton, from Cockermouth, had been due to play for the over-75s but was ruled out by injury. The men said the number of Cumbrians involved deserved more attention.
LX Red was, in effect, England C, following changes that allow England to enter two teams in each age group. The squad played against international opposition, including Dutch and Australian B teams.
Keith said: "The tournament itself is fun, but it's bloody hard work."
Matches were played in four quarters because of the players’ age and the heat. One quarter-final was held in temperatures of 37C, with an additional break provided for the players.
Teams had to manage hydration, fitness and medical needs, while sticks, protective equipment, shirts and identity documents were checked by officials.
Andy Bradbury said: "It's great, absolutely great. Very competitive."
He had already represented England in matches against Spain in Barcelona and at a tournament in Potsdam, Germany, before travelling to the Netherlands.
Players fund their own travel, accommodation, kit and entry fees. The men said they plan and save for tournaments, with teams sharing costs where possible.
The competition also had a social side. Teams carried national flags through Breda before attending a church, where speeches were made and free beer was served.
Keith said: "You want to play different sides. That's why I said playing Thistles and Dragons, you want different competition."
The men believe masters hockey offers older players a way to stay active, meet people and travel.
However, they said clubs in the north face difficulties because they have fewer teams and players than larger clubs in southern England.
Carlisle Hockey Club has two men’s teams and three women’s teams. Andy also coaches and umpires at Austin Friars school voluntarily.
Both players want more people to recognise the opportunities available through hockey.
They said overseas tournaments are competitive, but also provide friendships and experiences well beyond the pitch.
Both men expressed their pride in representing their country, Keith is aiming to get into the England squad, as he moves up an age category.
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