(Photo: author unknown, Day 2, Margaret Bottomley, Captain, 2nd from right, front row)

The 2026 Area Tournament Hockey Competition for Women 65+, featuring Margaret Bottomley, Park's Chair and Captain of the Yorkshire & North East (YNE) team, took place on 25th/26th April. The competition is a yearly triangular tournament between women's Masters teams at ages from over 35s to over 70s representing Yorkshire & North East, Scotland & North West.

This year, Margaret played midfield for her age group in the YNE team, and the competition was held in Wakefield, a welcome change from Folkstone and Bristol previously.

Eight areas of England Hockey compete in a round-robin over two days: four 35-minute games on day one, three on day two—245 intense minutes for any age.

On day 1, YNE struggled to find their best form but managed to score several goals. They drew with East, lost 1-0 to the eventual winners, West, and then won against South East. The final match of the day saw South Central equalise on the last touch, leaving YNE in 4th place at the end of the day.

Moving into day 2, YNE began with a goalless draw against Midlands. Afterwards, they beat North West 1-0 and finally reached top form, recording a 4-1 victory over London with 2 outstanding penalty corners. This result meant Yorkshire & North East narrowly overtook South Central for the runners-up spot.

Report: Margaret Bottomley

A great weekend of hockey and a great result for the Yorkshire & North East Team. Well-captained, Margaret!

Read more about Margaret's hockey team victories in Auckland and Valencia

Below: Day 1 - 2026 Area Tournament Hockey Competition for Women 65+ Photos (unknown authors):