ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
THE OFFICIAL BOWLS NZ eMAGAZINE
Silver Smith Forges Legend Val ‘Never Say Die’ Smith page 4
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ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
this
issue Val ‘Never Say Die’ Smith
4
Our Team’s Performance
5
From The Eyes Of The Media
6
Eventful Managing
7
Sports Science
9
New Uniform
9
Myth Busting
11
A Moment In Bowls History
13
Have-A-Go At Lawn Bowls
14-17
Focus On Greenkeeping
18
Club Scene
19
Focus On Umpiring 21 Blind Bowls
23
Squad6 Youth Bowls
25
TV Coverage The Magic Bullet?
26-27
upshot www.bowlsnz.co.nz
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ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
VAL ‘NEVER SAY DIE’ SMITH Blood, sweat, and tears, in the strength sapping heat of India, Val Smith undertakes a marathon effort, playing three games a day, dropping only one game in three days to do the impossible and make the Gold medal final at the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games after a slow start in her pool matches. Proving that experience does indeed count, one of the New Zealand Women’s team’s most experienced players has added another medal to her long list of achievements. This time it was a Commonwealth Games Silver Medal that Val Smith mounted the podium to collect. A member of the New Zealand team since 2003, Smith has made a habit of winning, and winning consistently throughout the years. However, this latest victory is an impressive career highlight that leaves no room to doubt her courage, mental strength, and determination. Everyone who witnessed her charge up the table has been amazed by her stamina and mental toughness. When the pressure came on, Val responded the only way she knew how; to fight for the win, to push for victory, to never quit, to never let up, and it was that attitude that powered her though to the Gold medal match up. For coach Dave Edwards, one of Val’s key attributes came to the fore as she picked herself up and worked her way back into contention in those pool matches. “One thing about Val is just
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her sheer guts and determination,” he said. “She has a never-say-die attitude and it got her in.” What makes this performance really special is when you go back to the final day of pool play; Val had to win those last three matches convincingly to avoid a count back which was unlikely to do her any favours. This is where Val made the bowls world sit up, take a breath and applaud; she dominated her opposition, and won each match in straight sets to push her way into the quarter finals and from there nothing and no one was going to stop her getting to that Gold medal match. Val Smith is one of those professional athletes that stand out from the crowd, when you witness them play, win, lose, or draw, you can tell that they haven’t held back, they have left nothing in the tank. You can’t help but respect her skills, will power, and toughness, which are awe inspiring. This performance will forever place her in bowls folk law, the pint sized, gutsy, kiwi, who achieved a minor miracle on the Bowling Greens in Delhi. And what has the elite bowler got in her sights for the future? A repeat result at the next World Championships in Adelaide (2012) is perhaps the only thing that could top her Commonwealth Games effort. Pictured above right, Val receiving her medal; right, Val celebrating a brilliant shot.
ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
OUR TEAM’S PERFORMANCE
The results at the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games were a disappointment to all involved in the High Performance program and build up for our athletes. Val Smith’s courageous efforts rewarded the team with a silver medal, which marginally improves on our performances in Melbourne four years ago.
an important tie break against Northern Ireland which would have guaranteed their position in the playoffs. “It came to a halt millimetres short….We didn’t know that at the time when we lost the tie-break [how important it would be]. Manu joked that I should have played with [slightly bigger] size five rather than size four bowls because we would have got it.” Jan Khan.
Women’s Singles
Women’s Triples
Val Smith lost four of her first six games in the early stages of pool play and looked down and out of contention for a playoff spot. But Val’s fighting spirit came to the fore, through dogged determination over the last two days of pool play she dropped only one game in six to go through to the knock out quarter final match. From there we witnessed the true nature of Val Smith as she fought her way through Scotland and Australia to get to the final match where she emerged with a Silver Medal.
This team was probably the hard luck story of the games, only dropping two games but still knocked out in the pool stages as a result. In their group the top four teams finished on 12 points and on count back the Women’s Triples dropped into Fourth Place and missed out on a playoff spot. Their campaign came down to a loss against Namibia, the one game that the team seemed off its rhythm, which ended up costing them dearly.
Women’s Pairs
Ali Forsyth rolled through his opposition in fantastic form during pool play only losing to England; this one loss causing him to lose the all important top spot in his pool - and automatic semi final qualification. In his quarter final playoff Ali drew Leif Selby of Australia. In a battle of titans, the match came down to a tie
Manu Timoti and Jan Khan seemed in devastating form in the early games of their group; however their touch seemed to leave them in the second half of their tournament. Their Commonwealth Games aspirations came down to one crucial moment where, by millimetres, they lost
Men’s Singles
break, where in the first end a vagary of the green slipped Selby’s bowl in for shot. This ensured Selby controlled the mat which proved to be the important factor in the competition between the two, with Ali eventually losing the Tie Break 4 – 3 to be knocked out of the tournament.
Men’s Pairs Richard Collett and Danny Delany had a horrid start to the tournament, never quite gelling. When one found his touch the other had lost his and vice versa. It took till the final stages of the tournament to find their rhythm again, but by then the damage was done and they were playing for pride only.
Men’s Triples Andrew Todd, Shannon McIlroy, and Richard Girvan had an erratic campaign, playing some sensational bowls in one match, then dropping the next in what should have been relatively easy victories. The surprising factor was the losses in tight tie breaks which this team has had a history of performing well in. Their campaign inevitably came down to a disappointing loss against Niue. This team isn’t about excuses: “In those tight games you just have to take your opportunities and unfortunately we didn’t” Andrew Todd.
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ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
FROM THE EYES OF THE MEDIA By Bevan Sanson, Sky Sports commentator in Delhi Excerpts from ‘Bowled Over by Kiwi Athletes Attitude’. Reprinted with permission from Sky Sport.
When they get their chance to step out of the shadows it’s nice to see sportsmen and women make the most of the chance. Being at the Commonwealth games has given me the chance to interact with many of New Zealand’s top athletes, athletes who normally train and perform away from the spotlight. It’s a Kiwi fact that if Rugby, League or Cricket is not your chosen sport, gaining regular exposure via all media avenues is not easy. Which is why it’s refreshing to speak to the likes of our leading bowls exponents, boxers and table tennis players…. The Lawn Bowls team. If ever there was a team that got on with the business of performing, but understood the importance of chatting to the media and broadcasters this is it. They’re great! Like Meehan (boxing coach), and Chun Li (Table Tennis coach), head Bowls Coach, Dave Edwards sets the standard for the rest of his team to follow. Speak to this guy and there is no sanitised pap. No crafted PR speak. Yet his message is delivered in a relaxed, informative manner that would put many an experts’ comments to shame. When his players are doing well he says so. When they are not, he is equally honest. Edwards is coach and a people manager. He allows his players to speak and does not speak on their behalf - as too many coaches do these days. Edwards, Meehan and Chun Li trust their players and they respond in kind. His team of 12 are all a pleasure to interview and in the case of men’s singles player, Ali Smith, there is a comments
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man there if ever he chose to take the opportunity. Jan Kahn is simply a joy and her pairs teammate, Manu Timoti’s quiet manner only just hides a great sense of humour and ability to educate an audience on the intricacies of her sport. The Women’s triples team are equally pleasant to chat with and whilst they probably don’t believe it they interview well. Women’s singles player, Val Smith is in the same boat. Trust me Val, you’re a great talent and an interview with you is a lot of fun. As does the men’s triples. Skip, Richard Girvan is a leader on and off the field. He is another with a real knack of telling his story in a way that educates and entertains. His teammates, Andrew Todd and Shannon McIlroy complete a fine boxed set. The Men’s Pair of Danny Delaney and Richard Collett set the benchmark for all sportsmen who have to talk to the media after a bad day. They struggled on the first two days of the Commonwealth Games, yet were always approachable. Great guys, who you just want to see do well, because you know they can - and they’re bloody good blokes. Thank goodness now our Commonwealth Games athletes get the coverage they so deserve, and have a chance to promote themselves. Well done to those who have taken the chance to do so and thanks to those who have given me the chance to know them better. And hopefully, through this association, many folk at home have got to know them better too.
ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
EVENTFUL MANAGING BILL FOWLIE AT DELHI’S COMMONWEALTH GAMES By Crispin Anderlini “Only in India,” people sometimes say with a wry smile. Only in India can an 8-Nations Lawn Bowls Invitational Tournament have the finishing touches applied with mere hours to spare. Only in India can you expect to roll up on greens with a mean temperature of 40 degrees Celsius. And only in India could you hope to complete the preparations for a Commonwealth Games bowls tournament in the wettest monsoon season for 30 years, with just a professional attitude and a small team of organisers to assist - but Bill Fowlie has managed it. A Delhi resident for the past 16 months, the Christchurch native has been tested and tried in more ways than one during his time in the world’s second most populace country. From a lack of support and experience with the sport, to madmen on the roads - and much in between. “I was a one man band up until
three months ago, when Isaac Denny arrived from NZ as my Sports Manager,” Fowlie explains, “but I have always had a professional attitude that come what may, I would run a professional tournament. And it showed when we had the 8-Nations test event in April. Now I have the full team on board, we will make it happen.” Satisfied reports from our bowlers on the slow-rolling greens, confirm that he has indeed, ‘made it happen’. Despite being Fowlie’s “most difficult event” yet, the veteran bowls events manager has also seen and experienced fascinating things. “The most amazing things about living here have been the history, the travel and all the wonderful people I have met. I never in a million years thought I would ever visit the Taj Mahal what a sight. It choked me up, I can tell you,” Fowlie reports with admiration. “On the organisational side, I have worked with a great bunch of competition managers… and [me and my team] have formed a
bond that will last a lifetime.” And through all the trials and tribulations of the project, Fowlie says it is the love and support of his wife Linley that has seen him through. Being able to come home at night to his apartment, in the noisy, wonderfully lively and diverse city that is Delhi, and hug his wife before having a hot meal. “That’s priceless,” Fowlie says. Pictured below left: The Fowlie’s Front Gate in Delhi; below: Bill in Delhi.
upshot www.bowlsnz.co.nz
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TEAMWEAR
BOWLS NZ sign new deal with LEGENDZ Teamwear! Bowls NZ are proud to announce a 4 year partnership with LEGENDZ TEAMWEAR that will change the way you can buy your white wear and teamwear. The partnership will enable clubs and their members to purchase white wear and teamwear in their local Postie store and be rewarded for it!
Every sale generates an annual cash rebate to your club of 5% Postie has 81 stores nationwide. When your club officially signs up with LEGENDZ TEAMWEAR as their supplier, a range of white wear personalised with your club logo can be stocked locally. White wear stock will be arriving in store in November. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LEGENDZ TEAMWEAR CONTACT William Locking Regional Account Representative DDI: 09 820 4409 Mobile: 027 224 2944 Fax: 0800 802 820 william.locking@legendz.co.nz
www.legendz.co.nz
See www.postie.co.nz for store locations
ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
SPORTS SCIENCE Sports science is now an integral part of high performance sport preparation, and bowls is no exception. Technique is important for bowlers, and a lot of effort went into technical analysis for the 12-strong high performance bowls team to underpin preparation for the Commonwealth Games. Under the guidance of expert Matt Ingram from the ASI in Christchurch, New Zealand is leading the way in biomechanics technology. Matt, who manages the bowls sports science programme, has refined a system which films players using two cameras, codes performance using dedicated software, plus the latest new “Icode” technology, and links it to player statistics. Bowlers can then review performance, picking up specifics on what they’re doing right and what needs further work. They then plan for improvements with their coach, and prepare strategy going into their next competition. Matt also worked with the high performance bowlers on fitness as part of their Commonwealth Games preparation. Obviously biomechanics is just part of the holistic support the ASI provides; strength and conditioning, physiotherapy and mental preparation also being integral to the Games focus.
NEW UNIFORM The Black Jacks competed in their great new uniforms at the Commonwealth Games. The uniforms were made by new Bowls NZ Sponsor Legendz Teamwear. Legendz was chosen because they are a New Zealand owned company, and are able to provide bowling gear to all our members – not just for the Black Jacks. They have a factory based in Christchurch, so they can work to short time frames, and have also provided Bowls NZ with a substantial sponsorship programme. With all these benefits, Legendz was the obvious choice. The uniforms are made with the latest breathable fabric technology, which helped keep the Black Jacks in top condition – even in the sweltering Delhi heat! The material is both strong and flexible, a must for competitive bowling. The design of the new uniform set the Black Jacks apart from the other New Zealand sporting teams, with the imagery of the fern being the prominent aspect. And the uniform has been approved by the New Zealand Olympic Committee so it can be used for other competitions in the future. The new uniform is one the Black Jacks can be truly proud to wear while representing their country on the world stage.
upshot www.bowlsnz.co.nz
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Bowls Bias Trajectory
Alpha
BOWLS BIAS TRAJECTORY
Alpha ABT-evo Tiger II Classic II
Choice of Champions
Val Smith World Number 1 Winner singles & pairs World Champs 2008
Approved 15/09/09 Alpha is a full fit bowl with a unique non-slip grip to provide bowlers with superior hand Bias chart is a relative guide only. comfort. Alpha has a Performance holdingcharacteristics line forwill ‘up shots’ and an even draw to the jack, especially vary due to different surfaces and playing conditions for dead draws, allowing it to perform to perfection on weighted shots. A combination of precision engineering and advanced design has given Alpha its superior stability in windy conditions.
Tiger II
A mid biased bowl with an even and predictable trajectory. The predictable line of the Tiger II makes it very easy to adjust to for experienced and new bowlers alike. The Tiger II provides comfort in the hand, control on the delivery, and consistency in results.
Classic II
The well established, traditional and popular wider drawing bowl, with a “hook” finish, well suited on greens with a speed of 12-16 seconds
ABT Evo
A full bodied bowl providing on green stability, giving maximum performance on fast running greens. A true holding line to maximise accuracy and results on run shots.
For information on Henselite Lawn Bowls, Clothing, Footwear, and Accessories Vist:
www.henselite.co.nz
ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
MYTH BUSTING Bowls NZ, in the interest of transparency, is introducing a “Myth Busting” segment, specifically dedicated to busting some common “myths” with facts. Let’s look at…
Myth #3: Membership fees that go to Bowls NZ fund the Black Jacks’ trips overseas. Key Fact: The High Performance
Key Fact: SPARC funds sports through
Key Fact: The goals of the high
programme operates off a separate budget. The revenue comes from SPARC, through their high performance programme, and specific corporate relationships which desire a tangible link with the Black Jacks due to their history of achievement.
a performance model, which means that if the Black Jacks are not successful at specified events they are likely to lose funding. For example, the current goal they needed to achieve was at least 3 medals at the Commonwealth Games. This funding is reviewed every second year, and the Black Jacks must reapply for funding each time. Key Fact: This performance funding model means that the Black Jacks cannot afford to have a bad day at the office. Their funding relies entirely on how well they do at World Games and Commonwealth Games, so to ensure the continuation of the high performance programme they must achieve results - there are no second chances.
performance programme are easily available in Bowls New Zealand’s Strategic and Operations plans – which are both posted on the Bowls NZ website, paraphrased “They want to dominate the World of Bowls and win Medals.” Key Fact: Currently no Membership fees go towards the High Performance programme to fund the Black Jacks programme. What many people don’t know is that the Black Jacks’ trips, coaching, and any other expenses incurred are almost completely funded by SPARC. The remainder of the revenue is sourced through sponsorship arrangements, such as the Legendz sponsorship for the uniform requirements of the Black Jacks.
SPARC
Corporate Sponsorship
n Corporate Sponsorship n SPARC
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ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
A MOMENT IN BOWLS HISTORY 1986 Edinburgh Commonwealth Games By Amy Williams The 1986 Edinburgh Games was steeped in controversy, and none were more affected than the New Zealand Men’s bowling team. At the time only amateur sportsmen could compete in the games, and if a player received any cash prizes for their sport they were deemed to be semi professional, and as such were ineligible. This affected athletes across many countries and disciplines, and most of the first choice NZ Men’s bowling team were among them. To deal with this problem new players had to be selected, and prepared as much as possible in a short space of time for the challenge ahead. Kerry Clark was the Coach Manager for the New Zealand Men’s Team at the time, and as Coach Manager it was his responsibility to deal with the mammoth task of selecting the new players. One of the players selected was Ian Dickison, who had previously won a gold medal in the Australian Games Singles, as well as National Titles in both Singles and Pairs. The other players selected were Stewart McConnell, Morgan Moffat, John Murtagh, Wayne Nairn, Maurice Symes and Keith Slight. Most of these players had experienced domestic success, and some had competed on the world stage, but the pressure of achieving Commonwealth Games success was a new experience. The conditions the players faced in Edinburgh were both dreadful and a completely foreign encounter for bowlers used to Kiwi conditions. Daytime temperatures averaged just 8°C and it rained through the entire tournament. Ian Dickison put in a strong performance, ignoring the weather conditions he swept through the competition with style and finesse. He went on to win the Gold medal in the Men’s Singles and bring glory back to New Zealand. Unfortunately none of the other NZ Men’s bowlers placed in the competition, although the Men’s Fours just missed out with a fourth place finish. But it was the support of Kerry Clark that really brought the success to this team. Kerry recalls “coaching was very much in the development phase at the time, and my job really was to be a Jack of All Trades”. Beyond coaching he was also responsible for travel, accommodation, and outfitting, as well as being a confidante to the players. He credits the volunteers who worked alongside him for their hard work towards the success of the team. Pictured right: Ian Dickison, Men’s Singles Gold Medalist
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OUR GREAT GAME IS ALL ABOUT THE FUN, THE SKILL AND THE PEOPLE
By Crispin Anderlini Kids, put down your Playstation games and pick up a bowl. Teenagers, get out in the sun and roll up on a green. Adults, discover why so many competitive and social New Zealanders play this classic game. That was the call that went out on the airwaves, through letterboxes and over newspaper pages in the lead up to the second National Have a Go at Lawn Bowls Day on Sunday, October 10. From the Far North to the Deep South, 186 bowling clubs joined in the effort to get more people playing bowls and raise the sport’s profile. After all, it’s a Commonwealth Games sport; it enjoys a sizable, and growing, fanbase in a huge variety of countries; it’s a very sociable, interactive and fun sport to try; the great thing is anyone can play. Have A Go, has been designed with one simple purpose, getting more people into clubs, trying the game we all love, and hopefully catching the addiction. In most clubs the success of this day has been fantastic with expressions of interest for casual bowls and
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members being well beyond expectation. At the Hutt Bowling Club they had 61 members of the public turn up to Have A Go, the club made sure these new people to the sport were given a variety of on green fun activities and relaxed Bowls lessons. They turned the day into an event with on and off green activities for all age groups, with three different food stalls to keep the visitors and the many club volunteers well fed, every half hour they had a spot prize draw - with the Prizes being donated by club members. As a result of the day they were able to recruit three new Mates In Bowls (MIB) teams and fill two more with casuals. They also now have 5 new applications for membership “this was such a fantastic outcome for our club to have in one concerted effort 18 people decide to participate in bowls at our club on a regular basis.” Errol McFarlane (Vice-President and Club Captain of Ponsonby Bowling Club) points out: “The only way to keep the game alive is to bring in younger people, to open your doors and let bowls be fun again.” At his club
it’s been a great turnout as well, with over 60 people giving bowls a go for the first time. He explains it doesn’t just happen by chance, they’ve done a lot of groundwork, and John Ivory (President of Ponsonby Bowling Club) has been driving advertising for the day in all directions: web, newspaper, radio, and letterboxes to get the word out. On rink seven there’s Julius (9), who’s just completed another solid end, and is about to teach older brothers Desmond (11) and Dylan (18) a lesson. “It’s good to get out of the house,” he says with a shy chuckle. A bustling, laughing family is having a go on rink one. And rink three has a full complement of sharp-looking hipsters, chortling at their errors while paying studious attention to their line. They saw the flag outside, and decided to try their hand at the game. It’s more difficult than they thought, but also much more fun than they imagined. Meanwhile, next door in rink five, 11-yearold Aidan is already an expert. “I’m here with my dad and grandfather today.” He laughs as he explains proudly they are having a Boys
day out at the Bowls Club. Have A Go gives us the chance to show the community what makes bowls such a great game. I asked Point Chevalier Bowling Club Manager Jenny Jones, an energetic, something-under-40-year-old, with a passion for the game and a desire to show people why bowls is the game of kings and serfs alike, just what makes Bowls great, “there’s no age to it. You don’t have to be physically fit, strong or the greatest athlete. You just have to turn up and get an idea of what the bowl is going to do; then just practice.” And judging by the busy greens, she’s quite persuasive at getting people to Have A Go. Success doesn’t just happen, and that is the same with Have A Go, the clubs that really put the effort in, turn the day into a promotion of their club, their facilities, and its people, see real value in the day with many expressions of interest from the participants to play bowls regularly. The clubs that made sure they included as much fun, laughter, and enjoyment into the day reaped the rewards
of more participants, more members, and increased awareness of their facilities, they made Have A Go a success through their own efforts. Richmond in quake ravaged Christchurch still found the time and energy to run Have A Go, the impact on the people who participated in the day was expressed by Colleen a stalwart volunteer of the club “All (the participants) actually came up and thanked us for a great afternoon out” it was such a great opportunity to simply enjoy the game of bowls with the community. Richmond also took the opportunity to get donations for the Earthquake appeal, and managed to raise over $100. “We had a lot of help with advertising, with the Radio station and the local paper promoting the day, and of course the flyers we distributed around the town and public places like the local Mall, Library and council offices really helped to get the message out and let people know we are here.” Kia Toa Bowling Club in Hastings opened its greens to anyone who wished to Have a Go. The response to the event was very
pleasing”, says Gordon Berry, with 24 non bowlers turning up to see for themselves what this game of bowls is all about. 186 Clubs ran Have A Go in its second year, each took advantage of the marketing support provided by Bowls NZ (signage, templates etc) to take the chance to put themselves in front of the wider public, they actively advertised and marketed themselves, they put the effort into creating an environment for new people to try the game in a fun and positive manner, they actively opened their doors to their local communities, rebuilt their appeal, and showed what this great game is all about, the fun, the skill, the people. On a final note from Michael O’Keefe Bowls NZ’s marketing manager “To every club, volunteer and person involved I would like to say a personal thank you for taking the time and effort to show off this great sport. Without your efforts, the success of the day would not have been possible. You have all done an amazing job in promoting the sport to our communities in a positive and fun way.”
upshot www.bowlsnz.co.nz
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* Offer is valid until 31st March 2011. **Specialised key-ring offer is available only while stocks last and is valid until 31st March 2011. Bowlers MUST identify themselves as a Bowls NZ member before purchase or test drive to qualify for each offer.
OUR GREAT GAME IS ALL ABOUT THE FUN, THE SKILL AND THE PEOPLE
ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
FOCUS ON GREENKEEPING SCRIMS, SCRIMS, SCRIMS By Martin Christensen Scrims have been catch cry for green keepers so far this season. I’m aware of two clubs who on opening
cluster meetings involving Sports Turf and
scrims, they will pay for it in the long run.
Bowls NZ.
Regional Centres
Greens Evaluation Form
Recently Region Two held a green
The
Bowls
NZ
Green
Keepers
day, against better judgment, didn’t
keepers forum, in view of forming a
Association fully supports the use of the
use them “so that the greens would
Leadership
evaluation form by all Centres when
look their best”.
Experienced
group
Greenkeepers.
selecting club greens for Centre events
They are now paying the price of
Contractors from the Region’s eight
into this season, as it is vital that all clubs
having slow healing dumping and scuff
Centres attended, together with members
throughout NZ are evaluated to the same
marks evident well into the season. Club
of the NZ Sports Turf Staff. An outline of
criteria. It was surprising to find at the
officials must be resolute insisting that
the new Regional pathways was given
recent Region Two forum that awareness
scrims are used whilst the playing surface
by CEO David Hewitt, and an excellent
of the approved evaluation form was not
remains soft. I would refer club officials to
exchange of ideas on all aspects of
evident in some Centres.
the excellent article “dumping” by David
Greenkeeping followed. A resolution was
For a copy of the evaluation form,
Ormsby in the August Turf Management
made to reactivate activity at local level,
visit www.bowls.co.nz/greenkeeping/
Journal. Club Officials must not succumb
especially in relation to field days and
reporting
www.bowlsnz.co.nz
Green
of
and
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to pressure from players against using
keepers
ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
club scene Stoke Club Season Opening To celebrate opening for the season Stoke Club held a ‘blind bottle auction’ to raise funds for resident Black Jacks Richard Collett and Shannon McIlroy. The auction was a great success, with Club President Allan Griffiths presenting each with $600 towards their Commonwealth Games trip. One of the highlights was a beautifully presented and well wrapped bottle that turned out to be a hot water bottle – that went for $20. Patron Ferrers McCarthy also paid $20 for a bottle of water!
Bay Of Plenty Junior Bowlers Dianne Ratcliffe (J2 Matua BC) and Carol Rough (J5 Matua BC) made their debut for the Bay of Plenty Junior Ladies Bowls Squad against Gisborne/Poverty Bay at Ohope Bowls Club on Sunday 19.9.10. After initial nerves the pair warmed up to the challenge, and enjoyed their experience under the leadership of skip, Gill Lamprey (J4 Arawa BC, Rotorua).
Timaru Bowling Club makes a Generous Donation to Bowls Canterbury Bowls Canterbury have received a cheque from Timaru Bowling Club for $10,000. This money has been offered to assist those Clubs affected by the earthquake. This is an outstanding contribution from this Club and Bowls Canterbury would like to show their appreciation for their amazing generosity.
Wellington Regional Service Centre Underway At the latest Bowls New Zealand AGM, Wellington RSC presented to the audience of Club representatives and delegates from around the country it’s progress and learnings as it has moved down the path of developing the models required to deliver the objectives around Youth Bowls, Quality Green keeping, Coach development, Technical Officials, and Capability development within their region. What was highlighted throughout the presentation was that the process and relationship between Wellington and Bowls New Zealand has been one of cooperation and a desire to see the environment of Bowls improved. Dave Hewitt presented how the centre had worked with key individuals, such as Sharon Sims, to develop plans around each aspect so that they had developed a clear pathway for the next twelve months. The core focus in the early stages has been identifying passionate capable people to take ownership of core activities within their areas of concern, and to provide those individuals with all the tools and support required so that they could work within their centres and clubs to deliver world class programmes, and improve the sport’s delivery and infrastructure to the bowls community.
Send your updated club contacts to Bowls NZ at info@bowlsnz.co.nz
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ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
FOCUS ON UMPIRING INTERNATIONAL UMPIRING By Helen Stallard The biggest positive to umpiring internationally is the opportunity to mix with umpires from around the world and to be able to discuss and compare the state of umpiring in other countries. It is then that you realise that all countries face an aging population of umpires, a declining full bowling membership and the increasing difficulty in attracting and retaining quality umpires. With World Bowls now taking a leading role in examinations and providing a standard DVD to ensure the training across the world is technically all the same, the measuring procedures should all be the same, and umpires should be umpiring the same all across the world. Despite this uniformity there are still local differences it seems. The Northern Hemisphere loves their boundary thread and loathes the use of a boundary scope. In the Southern Hemisphere the thought of using a boundary thread to check if a bowl or jack is live seems antiquate. Northern Hemisphere umpires run up the green and move their feet a lot when marking to check whether a bowl is going to touch the jack. Southern Hemisphere
Umpires walk up the green, and stand in a position on the head where moving to check touchers is not required and a lean of the body is sufficient to have a clear view. The Eight Nations was held in early April and the reaction from the Indian teller in the bank when I first enquired about purchasing rupees should have warned me of what was to come. “Not even native Indians go to Delhi in April” I was told “it is too hot!!” Officiating at 45 degrees is an experience, and the air conditioned floor of the ITO’s room was certainly a welcome respite for your feet when you had finished your duty. The ground temperature reached 57 degrees one day! It was noted that the English were most impressed when Jan Khan called out “Umpire, rink 4, callipers please”. While we take this for granted in New Zealand as the accepted way to call for an umpire, it is not done anywhere else in the world. In other countries players just call for the umpire and when you arrive at the rink you find out what equipment is required. Hopefully it will catch on worldwide as all could see how much better the New Zealand way is!!
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ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
BLIND BOWLS AT BROWNS BAY By Greg Johnson The Browns Bay Bowling Club hosted the 2nd Annual Nicholls and Associates Optometrists Blind Bowls Triples event on Saturday the 4th of September 2010. A fun and competitive day was enjoyed by all. Twenty five bowlers from Auckland Blind Lawn Bowls were placed in teams with Browns Bay Bowling Club members. The tournament was held to give blind & visually impaired players the opportunity to play a competitive tournament, and to increase Browns Bay club members’ awareness of the issues encountered by blind bowlers. This was enhanced by all of the sighted players having to wear international travel eye shades and play their bowls “blind” for one end during each of the four games. This resulted in
a large increase in concentration and communication levels amongst all bowlers. It was great to see and hear the Browns Bay club members breaking down barriers, assisting each other in how to hold their bowl, and positioning each other on the mat. The winning triples team in the event comprised of Glenn Hanneman, President of the Auckland Blind Lawn Bowls Association, Bill Sharpe and Browns Bay Club stalwart, Peter Beg. Major sponsor, Bruce Nicholls and his colleague, Catherine, came along to join in the fun, both displayed a high degree of skill, and we were overjoyed when Bruce announced that Nicholls and Associates Optometrists would sponsor the event again in 2011.
We would also like to thank the generous sponsorship from Bowls Planet; who made a large donation to the Auckland Blind Lawn Bowling Association to support blind and visually impaired players’ participation in this great sport. Thanks go to the Browns Bay Club for hosting and fundraising for this event, particularly to Club Captain, Kevin Smith, for his organisation of the tournament. If you would like to host a blind bowls event at your club please get in touch with one of the contacts on the New Zealand Blind Lawn Bowlers Association website www.sportsground.co.nz/nzblba The Blind Lawn Bowls National Championships will be held at Gate Pa Bowling Club in Tauranga from the 29th of November to the 2nd of December.
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PRACTITIONER AND PROFESSIONAL RETAILER PRODUCT TRAINING INFORMATION Product Code
Product Name
Pack Size
JRE90
Joint Rescue
90 Capsules
DESCRIPTION: This advanced formula contains some of nature’s most powerful new cartilage building agents and joint lubricants such as Glusoamine and Chondroitins. It also contains Celery Seed, White Willow Bark and Devil’s Claw which may help relieve discomfort associated with joint mobility problems. SUGGESTED DOSE: Adults: Take 1 capsule 2 to 3 times daily with food, or as professionally advised. INDICATIONS: • Glucosamine provides the raw materials that may assist the body to make new cartilage. It forms proteoglycans and creates “bone” netting for
a healthier joint. • Chondroiton stimulates the body’s production of proteoglycans helping to normalise cartilage from premature breakdown from enzymes, and acts like a liquid magnet attracting fluid in to the netting. • While glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin have been taken orally since the 1960’s in Europe, it is only recently that these supplements have been used in the United States as an alternative treatment for osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. • Sea Cucumber – Beche de mer – provides additional chondroitons. • Celery is widely used to help reduce pain and swelling in Arthritis. • White Willow is a natural pain reliever, with an ingredient similar to aspirin. • Devil’s Claw has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain while also improving mobility of the joints.
CONTRA INDICATIONS: Avoid if you have severe allergy to seafood. If you have Scleroderma, rare excess collagen disease associated with thickened skin body organs and excess collagen to joints, do not use NZ Health Naturally's Joint Rescue. ACTIVE INGREDIENT INGREDIENTS (PER CAPSULE): Glucosamine HCL Chondroitin Beche-de-Mer (Sea Cucumber) Herbal Extracts Equivalent to Dry: Celery (Apium gravelens) Seed 200mg White Willow (Salix Babylonica) Bark 800mg Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) Root 300mg Encapsulating Aids
500mg 120mg 50mg 34mg 54mg 100mg
EXCIPIENTS: Contains no added lactose, corn, gluten, sugar, starch, yeast, artificial flavour, colour or preservatives. COMMENTS/ NOTES: Use as directed and if conditions persist, please consult with a medical or health professional practitioner for advice.
Not intended for consumers use. Information is to assist professionals provide a knowledgeable and effective service. NZHN do not intend to replace professional advise, if consumers symptoms persist, consult a Professional Practitioner.
ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
youth bowls
THE FUTURE IS NOW What do current Black Jacks Genevieve Baildon, Shannon McIlroy and Andrew Kelly have in common? All three once stood on the dais as winners of National Secondary Schools Championship titles. Genevieve won her singles title in 2002, Shannon had a three year stranglehold on the singles from 2002-2004 and Andrew secured a singles title in 2005. Furthermore, these players are now at the pinnacle of our sport, with Genevieve and Shannon representing New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games. But it hasn’t been by chance that these three, and others of their generation, are now forging a new chapter in the New Zealand bowls history books, it has been the firm commitment by us as a sport to develop youth within bowls and the growing force of youth bowls supporters/ coordinators / ambassadors / coaches throughout the country. The National Secondary Schools Championships has developed into a challenging and competitive event endorsed as an official secondary schools championship. The Kittyhawks National U20’s Singles has been an established event on the youth bowls calendar for years and is regarded as one of the best for identifying future talent. In February this year, New Zealand secured a historic win over Australia in the Under 18’s tests. So where are we now? The pool is growing, the talent identification and development pathway is demonstrating success, and our dedication to a High Performance programme will go a long way to ensuring that we continue to ‘dominate the world of bowls’. But to keep this going,
we need to look at our sport holistically – what are we doing to make bowls appeal to younger people, to get more young kiwis playing more bowls, more often? Squad6 is the nationally branded and SPARC supported secondary schools participation model. Squad6 is not a championship to find winners; it is designed to grow student participation at a base level. Youth bowls is now a priority. Traditional club membership will continue to be the backbone of our sport, but unless we continue to promote and encourage youth to play bowls, clubs will close and the sport could die. Before the mat is pulled out from under us, let’s get more young people playing bowls – the future is now. What can you do to help? Support youth bowls by creating a positive and welcoming environment for all youth. Support youth bowls coordinators in your club and centre, attend events, run Squad 6, and develop youth focused coaching. Our youth bowlers are the future of the Black Jacks and among the great Kiwi names such as Khan, Skoglund, Bellis will go the names of Baildon, McIlroy and Kelly. Pictured right from top: Andrew Kelly in 2005, and 5 years later wins the World Junior Cup; Shannon McIlroy claims his third secondary title in 2004 and 6 years later is a Commonwealth games athlete; the victorious Area 2 Team in 2002 including Genevieve Baildon (right).
upshot www.bowlsnz.co.nz
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ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
TV COVERAGE THE MAGIC BULLET?
By Mike O’Keefe During my time with Bowls New Zealand I have come across constant arguments by members and personalities that TV will solve our sport’s woes, it’s the magic bullet, and it will inject money, fame, and prestige into our sport. That
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simply having bowls on the box will be the path to our salvation. It’s an interesting argument, and one which completely and utterly ignores the facts. Usually when TV is mentioned Australia or the United Kingdom are highlighted as the models to replicate. The proclaimers of this fallacy state “Australia have had bowls on TV for years and look at the strength of Australian clubs.” It’s great to be in a position where you can make such comments in ignorance of the reality of the situation; fortunately for the bowls community those employed to market our sport don’t have that luxury. Yes TV adds benefits to bowls in Australia in promoting the sport, but does it solve the issues at club level? No, because Australian clubs face the same issues we do: traditional membership is declining and casual membership is increasing. At Bowls Australia’s AGM it was noted in their key challenges, “Membership is disappointing, and the recent decline in 2008-09 follows a steady drop in membership over the last 25 years (our membership is currently nearly 50% of what it was in 1983)”. This shows that the trend from traditional to casual membership has nothing to do with television coverage of bowls, and everything to do with how society is changing. Has the TV coverage attracted more people to the sport in Australia? The simple answer is no - their membership is in decline. I can say that by simply looking at the facts. To attract new people to the sport Australian clubs have had to undertake targeted casual
and youth programmes to get people back to their clubs, volunteers have had to get out in the community and promote themselves. It’s exactly the same in NZ; the clubs that are successful are the proactive ones. In short TV hasn’t driven the masses to the sport and there are no membership facts to support this argument. Now let’s consider the UK position, where the BBC run a format developed specifically for TV and where the concept of a professional circuit was developed, the PBA. TV hasn’t solved the issues in the UK either. All UK countries (England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales) unsurprisingly face similar issues from the changing dynamics of the player base. The PBA as a professional circuit has lost sponsors and prize money, and as a result the circuit is decreasing because it isn’t generating the audiences required to continue to maintain corporate involvement. The fact is that we have had bowls on TV in New Zealand, such as the 2008 World Bowls Championship, and the New Zealand Open. Every time a bowls game is shown on TV it comes at a cost. The 2008 World Bowls coverage, in production and airtime alone cost the event $100,000 - because bowls does not generate the ratings. The feedback from the coverage of the World Bowls event was that it underperformed in ratings and failed to meet the expectations of the free to air channel covering the event. Rugby generates it’s revenue from TV rights because people watch the games. In New Zealand bowlers and the general public don’t watch the game to a level that will attract sponsors and make the
ISSUE 15 OCTOBER 2010
channels proactive in their desire for coverage, so we have to pay the channels for the time and production required to put our sport on TV. If we want to see our sport able to generate revenue and increased exposure through TV, then it is up to us, those that love this sport, to make the effort to watch it when it is available, so that ratings increase, and TV executives start to see some tangible returns from the sport being televised. So what are we doing to build our sport? We are giving our volunteers, those people who make a difference in our clubs, every support we can. We have Club Plan in place so clubs can build sustainable welcoming environments and Community Development Officers to aide clubs in planning and development. We have established national brands to target those growth areas in sport with programmes such as MIB, Squad6, and Have A Go. We have learnt lessons from our international partners and are putting our resources into delivering programmes that aide our clubs and ensure they are able to attract people to their clubs, rather than investing all our resources into TV coverage which mainly benefits a small number of elite players. Does TV coverage have a place in our sport? Hopefully. It is an option continually being investigated, but is it the magic bullet to our salvation? No. The reality is any coverage will come at a cost, and any benefit gained will be only for elite players. If you hear someone proclaiming otherwise, ask yourself, are they simply uninformed, joking, or trying to benefit themselves in some way?
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BCG2 GRA0024 LAPS Approval all No: N 1529
GRANT’S CORNER 2 CORNER TOuRNamENT
GRANT’S CORNER 2 CORNER TOURNAMENT Join in the fun and get a different angle on our favourite pastime. me. From November 2010 to April 2011 at participating clubs.