The king’s race is wide open, with Simon Wright (413 points) having his lead cut late Thursday afternoon following the completion of the croquet and tenpin bowling events, with Andrew Marsh (395) needing big wins in yesterday’s orienteering and individual mystery events to stake a serious claim at the crown.

Jono Punch (375) powered his way back third overall following a stunning victory on the croquet greens at Jaegar Reserve before a third placing on the lanes at the Orange Tenpin Bowl.

Mitch Christie was the king of the lanes, edging Lenny Punch in second.

While behind Jono Punch in the croquet, Adrian Priest and Mick Roberts enjoyed strong games.

The picture for the queens is much clearer, with Nicole Williamson’s 453 points enough to all but guarantee the defending champion three-straight Eight Day Games titles, with Cathy Johnson (407) second and first-year queen entry Pippy Simmons (370) clinging on to third after six days of competition.

The queens’ croquet winner was Chloe Matchett, while only a countback could separate Williamson and Lacinda Wells for second and third respectively.

In the tenpin bowling, Sarah Williams bowled an outstanding 380 over two games, with Jess Marsh second and Simmons third.

The king and queen will be crowned tonight at a presentation function to cap off eight days of action.