Bowls is for old people, isn’t it?
It’s true that many people of advanced years play bowls. But that is because anyone can play, irrespective of age and gender. We have young and old at out club. Bowls is a true sport of equality. One seventeen year-old member was part of the county under-25s triples competition winners in 2017, while in 2018 we had junior members aged 11 and 13. Another member is 92 and still going strong! Perhaps read the article Is lawn bowls getting a young, fresh makeover? to change your view.
Hardly anyone plays Bowls?
Can anyone play?
Yes, in its basic form bowls is a very simple game to pick up. After all, what can be more difficult than rolling a ball over 30 meters to get it as close as you can to another ball? Well, essentially that is the game of bowls, but of course it is much more than that. Practice and experience teaches new skills as players advance to a game as strategic as chess, as challenging as a cryptic crossword, but played outside on grass. Actually, it is also played inside in the winter as short-mat bowls, so really is a year round game.
Is bowls expensive?
Starting out, the only equipment you need is a pair of flat-soled sport shoes.
The club has a number of sets of bowls that can be borrowed by new players for up to a year. As you progress you may also need chalk and a bowls measure, though these may also be borrowed at the clubhouse.
When you gain more experience, you may decide to purchase your own equipment. Do not rush off and buy new. Bowlers at the club often put unwanted equipment up for sale. If you buy everything new at the outset, getting started can be costly. Take it slowly, build up your kit as you need it, get second hand gear to start with where you can, and the cost is no more than taking up any other sport. And, your birthday and Christmas list will be sorted for a few years!
Are bowls clubs snobbish?
Hardly! Bowlers come from all walks of life and all bowlers share their love for the sport. On joining your local club you will find a welcoming, friendly and very supportive group. What better than relaxing after a few ends sitting chatting in the sunshine whilst enjoying a glass of your favourite tipple.
What if I don’t want to play competitively?
That’s finel Not all members want to play in leagues and competitions. They join in casual roll ups and social days alongside other members. In summer, the green is open most days from around 12.30pm and you can pop along anytime. Some members prefer to practice on their own; you may find others practising on one of the six rinks (greens) next to you.
How do I make contact if I want to give it a go?
Email us
