Giving bowls a chance as a sport
Ten teams of three contested the Dannevirke Bowls Trades Tournament recently sponsored by the Dannevirke Services and Citizens Club. It was a chance for non-bowlers to try out the sport in a friendly atmosphere, each team having at least one experienced bowler.
The winner was a team skipped by Arvind Patel,with team mates John Walker and Richard Emery. Steve Henderson’s team was second with Jim Anderson’s third.
Ray Yanko was inspired to write about his experience to encourage more people to play bowls.
“From rocking chair to bowling green:
Make sure you call bowls, bowls and not balls. That was one of many instructions I had to take on board when I started playing bowls. At 66 years of age with a little push from a bowling neighbour I climbed out of my rocking chair and I must admit it was with a little trepidation that I headed to club day at my local bowling club.
“I was given a rock star reception. The members were so welcoming, help coming in all directions from one and all. This became rather overwhelming and a bit daunting but when I put it in context I realised that new members are a rarity and well worth looking after for the survival of this wonderful game.
“I enjoyed the beer from the bar and a chat with this interesting and diverse group of people. I decided to return, remembering to wear flat soled shoes as it is not much fun playing in socks with my big toe exposed.
“Did I find bowls easy to play? The answer is no. I had been a reasonably good sportsman and had looked upon the game as an easy game for the elderly. I found out this is not true and there is a lot to learn but the clubs have coaches who are most helpful.
“Beginners start as Colts and progress to Juniors. This fiveyear period has you playing against bowlers at the same skill level.
“Many tournaments are run at various clubs and are usually sponsored by local businesses contributing excellent prizes. As a junior you have to be prepared to cop a few losses at these tournaments as you will be playing against teams stacked with top players sometimes referred to as ‘pot hunters.’
“Never let this put you off this sport. Continue to upskill your game as the day will come when you will be in the winner’s circle. If you don’t win on the bowling green there is always a chance to win the raffle in the clubhouse.
“I have been playing now for five years. I don’t have any trophies in the cabinet but I enjoy the challenges the game presents me with. What stands out is the camaraderie among a great bunch of people.
“The rocking chair, along with a layer of dust, now resides permanently in the corner of my garage. I encourage you to contact your local bowling club and give it a go.” Club day is Tuesday afternoons.