A few years ago, I received a copy of the Chi Psi fraternity magazine (The Purple and Gold) that particularly interested me. Usually, I just flip through the publication from my late husband’s University of Virginia fraternity since they’re probably just hoping I’ll donate money.
However, this magazine had an article about the death of Dick Jenrette, a University of North Carolina alum. Some croquet folks may know that Gene Raymond, former Florida Regional Vice President for USCA, is also a North Carolina graduate and a Chi Psi.
While I was introduced to Gene about 10 years ago, I first met Dick Jenrette decades before on a trip to Maine. A co-founder of Donaldson Lufkin Jenrette, Dick was sometimes referred to as “the last gentleman on Wall Street.”
I don’t know that he was a croquet player during his amazing career, but he was known for his involvement in saving historical houses. In fact, he restored more than 13 homes during his 50-year history of preservation. His collection of historical homes included ones in New York State, New York City, North Carolina, South Carolina, and in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The Chi Psi magazine article noted that Dick Jenrette left behind a list of “How to Succeed and Have a Long and Happy Life.” Here are some of those sayings that can also apply to croquet:
(1) Stay in the game. That’s often all you need to do—don’t quit. Stick around!
(2) Don’t burn bridges (behind you).
(3) Say informed. Keep learning.
(4) Plan ahead but be prepared to allow when opportunity presents itself.
(5) Turn problems into opportunities.
(6) Present yourself well.
(7) Cultivate friends of all ages—especially younger.
(8) Be open to change—don’t be stuck in mud.
(9) Don’t forget to praise a job well done (but don’t praise a poor job).
(10) Look for the big picture, but don’t forget small details.
And so, to Dick Jenrette — thanks unknowingly for the good advice to us croquet players, no matter our age or our ability to play!...
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