Issuu

From the Editor Dear Reader ALL BETS ARE ON Since being introduced to lawn bowling some years ago, I have never played a game for a wager (except when Ann and I have a practice on separate rinks but play a short game of singles to end the session; loser buys the lunch !). I was told that any sort of betting was against the rules of our sport. Now, the Australians have decided that controlled betting on the outcome of bowls matches should be allowed there. Good for them, I say. Crown green bowlers have always had bookies to take their bets at big competitions, and why not? One of the best changes that I have seen at San Miguel over the years was when the committee decreed that no longer should the winner buy the loser a drink on a club day; now the loser buys the drinks. That encouraged all players to try that little bit harder. Playing with expectation of being bought a drink if you win, is a mild sort of wager. We play in some weekend competitions for money. Have you noticed that the host-clubs seldom tell us, as they always did before, just how much the prize money is and how it will be shared . Come on! We want to know how much is at stake. Why are you so shy? FUNDING FOR OUR NATIONAL SQUAD It would appear that government funds to encourage sport are not available to our National Team because they are all expats, not Spanish nationals; the Times and the BBC both ran stories recently on the subject. I suggest that we enrol a willing Spanish national into one of our clubs and then into the Spanish National squad. And then ask for funding….. then see if they can get out of that! FRANCO AND THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS In the UK anyone can form and join with any others in a club or group, without any red tape. Here, the spirit of the dictator lives on. Always fearful of democracy breaking out, he insisted on knowing just where groups of like-minded people were gathering. Sadly, this interference continues and our SABA and CBBA groups are

illegal. When John Muldoon stepped down from his post as Director of Bowls, he disbanded the Lawn Bowls Directory, known to many as ‘The Little Black Dress’ (which, I suspect, was also illegal). Whilst the LBC was not an elected body, the members being the Director’s invitees, it was a useful ‘think-tank’ and its minutes were widely-read. Bob Donnelly, who has taken on this heavy burden, does not intend to reconvene this committee. His negotiations with the Valencian ‘federacion’ have resulted in an agreement to reduce Fed fees to 12 euros next year, to be paid by every bowler playing games outside their own club. That should increase the entries in our National Championships and other federated events. Ruth Compton, working with the CALB breakaway-group in Almeria (yes, illegal) and the Adalucian ‘federacion’, have come up with a similar agreement and most bowlers have already federated under similar terms. In the Costa del Sol region things are not going so smoothly. The bowls club owners’ group, who control what competitions are played and where, (illegal, I would think), are a problem. Only 9 of the former 13 clubs remain open. Aloha Superbowl, one-time star of the region, closed without notice. Santa Maria club, reduced to 20 members, gladly took in some of the refugees. Benavista club is up for sale. Many bowlers in that region are only there in the Winter, which may explain the decline. PETANCA This issue of our magazine includes more petanca news. There are more expat petanca players here than lawn bowlers and we are pleased to give them space for their views and news. Unlike lawn bowling here, they are not all British expats; there are clubs with members from a dozen different countries. There is international rivalry on a friendly basis, with the income from many events going to local charities. Having seen the level of skill played by the top players here, I no longer wonder why the game is so popular. They are good ! Whatever you play, remember that it’s just a game

ENJOY IT! Carl

AN AUSTRALIAN EXPERIENCE

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS FINALS

2016 LÍNEA DIRECTA NATIONALS

INTRODUCING PETANCA

CONTENTS: AN AUSTRALIAN EXPERIENCE Ann Allen in Queensland

SOUTH ALICANTE BOWLS The history of SABA

CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS Suzi Cooper reports from the finals

LÍNEA DIRECTA NATIONALS Draws, schedules and order of play for the National Championships 17 ALL ROUNDERS CLUB Our Sporting Champions

BACK TO BASICS Coaching by Ruth Compton

A PLACE IN THE SUN Channel 4 filming at San Miguel

PETANCA Petanca News and information

WINNERS ENCLOSURE Club Champions

USEFUL DIRECTORIES Contacts and CBBA Calender

Editor: Carl Eagle Contributors: Bob Donnelly, Ruth Compton, Ann Allen, Arthur Brown, Bob Slater MBE, BEM, Susan Ward, June Jones, Lynne Bishop, William Rogerson, Anne Eagle, Tom Boyd, Lynda S Haymes, Geoffery Ditchburn, Tore Holstad Lehrmann, Veronica Sale, Pat Perrin Advertising: +34 600 228 616 Design by: The Leader Media Group Office: +34 600 228 616 Email: office@bowlsespana.com Editor Email: carlbowlsespana@gmail.com

In 2014 my bowling experience was limited to the greens of the Costa Blanca. So, after winning the Spanish Nationals, the opportunity to compete in the 2015 World Bowls Singles Champion-ofChampions in Queensland, Australia was something I had to grasp with both hands. An added bonus of this trip was sharing the Spanish representation with the experienced and talented Pete Bonsor.

of his abilities. However, even though he had not played on an Australian surface for three years, his game was something else!! Peter's concentration, decision-making and draw-shots were phenomenal... inch-perfect shots being repeated one after another. It did not appear to make any difference which rink Peter was drawn on....every performance was as good as the previous one and, it was clear, his opponents would have to beat him because Peter was not making any mistakes!

â€œWould I go again? Like a shot! My Australian experience was unforgettable.â€?

An Aus tralian

E xperienc e

Before leaving for Australia in October, 2015 I had listened to and read different views on bowling in Australia. As recommended, I had changed my woods and practised on indoor greens in Wales, but had turned down the offer of coaching in order to change my delivery. All information was intended to improve my game, but most only resulted in confusion! I arrived at the competition venue, Club Helensvale, on the windy east coast, a few days before the start of the competition in order to familiarise myself with the new surroundings and conditions. The venue was made up of three bowling greens (rolled twice-a-day), a very large eatery, separate bar area, a bowls shop and, the main source of revenue; an area for over 200 slot machines and other gambling options. This meant the club was always very, very busy and frequented by all ages. On arrival, I found the bowling conditions very different to those I had previously experienced! One moment there was torrential rain, followed quickly by 32-40 degree temperatures, but always the greens were

By Ann Allen

very even, fast, wide and windy. After the first day I realized that the woods I had brought were unusable under these condition and, therefore, accepted the offer of the use of club woods. However, whilst other competitors were using size 3/4 woods, my smaller Aero woods were unreliable in these conditions and I was unable to perform to the standard I know I can. Although I won two games, I should have done much, much better. However, if offered the opportunity again, I know I would be more prepared and capable of an improved performance. I had previously watched Peter play in Spain many times and was in awe

Peter's match against Scott Thulborn, ranked second in Australia, went to the last shot in the tie-break and he missed winning the game by half-an-inch. However, by the time he played Lee Williamson, from England, he was guaranteed a bronze medal. Considered to be one of the favourites, he eased-off before playing for a place in the final. The semi-final between Peter and Fairul Muin, Commonwealth Games silvermedallist, from Malaysia again, went to the last shot of the extra end denying Peter a place in the final which was eventually won by Neil Mulholland, 2014,Commonwealth Games silver-medallist, from Ireland. What did I gain from my Australian experience? It reinforced the opinion that experience can defeat most obstacles; disrupted concentration can affect performance hugely; there is nothing like the familiarity of your own woods; and that the swopping and changing of woods is not the answer to desired performance or consistency. It also reaffirms the understanding that if you want success you need innate ability and an awful lot more!.

The History of SABA

The South Alicante Bowls Alliance was formed around the year 2000, the main driving force behind its creation being the late Crystal Toleman, a member of La Siesta Bowls Club. The initial idea was to create competition in Southern Alicante during the Summer months. Crystal’s influence was clear in the fact that La Siesta won the SABA summer league from 2000 to 2004. Following Crystal, major players in SABA’s history have been SABA Presidents Dave Hadaway and John Meadows, plus Competition Secretary John Moss and his wife Mary as Secretary.

petitive Ladies Division and the 3-day Summer Trips competition, even now, is one of the most prestigious 3-day competitions in the area. In 2009 it was decided to try to legalise SABA and, after various enquiries, it was realised that this was not possible and so the decision was taken to become a subcommittee of the CBBA, thinking that they were n row legal. Recent moves to federate all bowlers show that B r rthu this was not the case. By A

These were the major driving forces in SABA until late 2009. The SABA winter leagues were introduced around 2006 – 2007 amid some confusion as to what the reason for their introduction was. Some felt they were for new bowlers, but it soon became clear that many clubs were using it to give their Winter League bowlers another game, getting them around the Winter League 7-day rule, which prevented them playing in the CBBA Southern League.

However, the SABA committee continues to operate and has never had a situation where decisions taken by their committee has ever been overturned by the CBBA. Following this amalgamation with the CBBA, John Moss passed on the role of Competition Secretary to Arthur Brown and shortly after, Mary passed on the Secretary’s role to Kath Reid. What can we say about SABA’s role in Southern Alicante’s history? The winners of the Summer Knockout competitions include all the area’s top bowlers,the SABA Leagues are only won by strong club sides. To investigate further, go to the SABA website at sababowls.wix.com/sabainfo.

As new clubs were introduced and even existing clubs were extending their membership, many new competitions and additional Divisions were added. The Summer Knockout Competitions covering 6 different disciplines was, at one time, receiving nearly 300 entries per year. The 4-Wood Pairs summer leagues had 2 Men’s Divisions plus a com-

The Spanish team, under the guidance of non-playing manager, Pete Bonsor, found the grass surface very different from playing on a carpet and failed to shine against the other teams.

Here you will find the history of all the major SABA competition winners plus details of league fixtures and results and tables of the current leagues.

EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS IN ISRAEL 2015

England’s young players won the competition but everyone enjoyed their stay, including a special coach-trip to the Red Sea, laid on by their hosts. Our picture shows, left to right: Spain - Darren Johnson, Derek Sale, Debbie Colquhoun, Lisa Bonsor England - Ashley Caress, Amy Stanton, Rebecca Field, Alex Walton

Image: Veronica Sale

Bowling Photography Competition Readers are invited to mail their best pictures to The Editor (carl@bowlsespana.com). Only pictures related to lawn bowls or petanca can be accepted. Photographs attached to written contributions will automatically be included for consideration. The

winner will be announced in the next issue of the magazine, having been presented with 'The Eagle Trophy' on a suitable occasion. The competition will be ongoing and the trophy will then pass to the photographer who wins our next competition.

A WEEK FOR CHAMPIONS AS RUSSELL MAKES HIS MARK

his yearâ€™s Champion-ofChampions event took place at Greenlands Bowls Club; with Quesada also being used for the first two days.

The weather stayed fine and, despite some gale force winds on Tuesday, the event progressed smoothly to the finals day on Saturday. As only one player was in two events, all finals were able to be played on the same day. In the Mixed Rinks San Luis (June Jones, Les Bedford, Colin Lindgren & Keith Jones) played against La Siesta (Ramsey Sinclair, Beryl Styring, Irene Mangan & Alex Morrice). The San Luis team got off to a storming start and, although the La Siesta team did begin to score some shots, San Luis took the honours, finally winning 26-11. The Mixed Triples between Quesada (Carol Broomfield, Graham Phillips & Jason Prokopowycz) and Greenlands (Phil Lockley, Mary Lockley & Trevor Vanner) started off as a nip-and-tuck game, but the Quesada team pulled away and finished 20-8. In the Mixed Pairs, Quesada (Eve Blythe & Bill Pain) played against Finca Guila (Sandie Thompson & Norman Vickers). This, too, started off as a close match but the Finca Guila pairing picked up successive fours to take the lead and went on to win 20-9.

Mary Cummings, winner of the Ladiesâ€™ Singles

After the lunch break, Jason Prokopowycz took to the green again. This time in the Mens Pairs with Chris Brazier playing against John Hurlock & Barry Evans (Horadada). The Quesada pair took control from the start and went on to win 20-16, giving Jason two titles.

Singles winners, Mary Cummings of Finca Guila and Russell Marks of San Luis

At the same time Bonalba (Eve Bell & Judy Branson) played Ladies Pairs against La Marina (Lynne Armitage & Shirley Hadaway). Despite dropping a big score on the first end, the Bonalba ladies came back to take the lead and control of the game; finally winning 20-15 The two premier events concluded the competition. In the Mens Singles Russell Marks (San Luis) was pitted against Frank Close (Emerald Isle). Frank, last year’s champion, lost out to the in-form Russell, who won 21-14. The Ladies Singles final was played between Mary Cummings (Finca Guila) and Jane Hamill (El Rancho). At one stage Jane was leading by 17-5 but Mary staged a comeback; finally drawing level at 19 across. Jane held shot-bowl on the final end but, with a perfect bowl drawing the jack back slightly, Mary held the 2 shots needed. Jane’s final bowl looked good all the way but just drifted past, to give Mary the win by 21-19. Presentations were made by CBBA President Jean Cooper. Thanks were given to Julian Pering for his hard work in scheduling the matches, to the coordinators at both venues, and to the markers & umpires who gave up their time.

WINNERS AND RUNNERS UP GENTS' SINGLES:

Russell Marks (San Luis) beat Frank Close (Emerald Isle)

LADIES SINGLES:

Mary Cummings (Finca Guila) beat Jane Hamill (El Rancho)

MENS' PAIRS:

Chris Brazier and Jason Prokopowycz (Quesada) beat John Hurlock and Barry Evans (Horadada)

LADIES' PAIRS:

Eve Bell and Judy Branson (Bonalba) beat Lynne Armitage and Shirley Hadaway (La Marina)

MIXED PAIRS:

Sandie Thompson and Norman Vickers (Finca Guila) beat Eve Blythe and Bill Pain (Quesada)

MIXED TRIPLES:

Carol Broomfield, Graham Phillips and Jason Prokopowycz (Quesada) beat Phil Lockley Mary Lockley and Trevor Vanner (Greenlands)

MIXED RINKS:

June Jones Les Bedford Colin Lindgren and Keith Jones (San Luis) beat Alex Morrice Irene Mangan Ramsey Sinclair and Beryl Styring (La Siesta) Jason Prokopowycz of Quesada was victorious in the Mens’ Pairs and the Mixed Triples

Seagate Wealth Management and Bowls A Winning Combination. S

eagate Wealth Management recently sponsored a competition held at San Miguel Bowls Club. The event took place over a weekend and considering the gales and likelihood of rain was well attended. We received a very warm reception and hopefully we managed to impart some financial wisdom. Our philosophy at Seagate is to put our clients firmly at the centre of everything we do. As people who have visited our Benijofar office remark, we are one happy family. Seagate provide Independent Financial Advice working with a number of regulated companies offering a comprehensive range of services. However, we are very different to your typical Financial Adviser. At Seagate we believe that providing various solutions for our clients is key and that’s why we don’t just stop at financial advice. We can assist all of our clients in various other matters such as Wills, Spanish Tax, Inheritance Tax Planning, Funeral Plans and Currency Exchange. By getting to know each client individually we understand their situation fully and it allows us to provide them with the best Financial Advice, not just for today, but forever.

One of the most popular products we deal with is the Prudential International´s Prudence Bond. Prudential is a household name and serves around 25 million insurance customers worldwide. They have 505 billion pounds of assets under management. Their International Prudence bond has gone from strength to strength and has returned over 5% per annum consistently for the last 5 years. The current bonus rate is 7.3% per annum for the Prufund Growth fund. The fund aims to maximise growth over the medium to long term while helping to smooth the peaks and troughs of investment performance. They do this by paying out regular annual bonuses. This makes the fund a halfway house between the volatility of the stock market and the safety of cash and bonds. If you would like further information on this or just a chat about making your money work harder for you, then we have a team of advisers based in offices in both the North and South of the Costa Blanca. You can either call us on 965 704 338, email us at contact@SeagateWealth.es or call Tracy directly on 966 848 960 or 693 107 044 Bowlers are presented with their trophies by Lorraine Howard, Marketing Manager and Financial Adviser Tracy Storer.

Seagate Wealth Management provides Independent Financial Advice with a comprehensive range of services. We work in

conjunction with fully regulated and authorised companies. Seagate Wealth Management is in partnership with many of the

world´s leading product providers and has access to an extensive range of solutions for clients.

By the founder Bob Slater MBE, BEM

THE STORY OF THE HIGHJACKERS An independent bowls club based at San Miguel Bowls Club

my retirement in 1987, we bought one of the houses built in The Eagles Nest complex that included a Bar, Restaurant and Bowling Green. My boyhood memories of bowls being played in the local park in Glasgow were of quarrelsome old men shouting “Yer too short Wullie, pit some mer wellie next time “ and “Yer JackHigh Tam, but no on this rink”. There were no women to be seen on the green in those days. Ann and I determined to take up bowls and were encouraged by the owner of the new complex, Naresh Bhundia, who we got to know quite well. He opened the “Soraya Mahal” bar and restau-

rant (later to be called “Cheers”) and the new green in 1988. We were his first members and within a year or so, others joined and we were able to compete in league games but, with only about 30 players, we were struggling. Naresh came to me for advice on how best to attract more members. The committee of the new club ruled that even those coming to try the sport must wear whites. ew people were willing to make that sort of investment to try a game that they may not enjoy. I agreed to run a Friday session on the green, quite independent of the San Miguel Bowls Club, where people could borrow woods and shoes and try their hand at

bowls. Many learners, as they became more proficient, moved on to join San Miguel Bowls Club. To improve the Highjackers image, I agreed to finance the purchase of shirts with the ‘Highjacker’ name on them. The friend who ordered them agreed to buy some very cheaply by only paying for the printing costs; they were cheap, but they were pink- coloured. We loved them and were the first in Spain to wear coloured tops. During the past 27 years, Ann and I have run about 1300 sessions, with about 200 players moving on to play at a higher level.

Many have become champions: Russell and Sabrina Marks, Maggie Furness and Colin Lindgren. Drew Gerrard, featured on this magazine’s first front cover, played with The Highjackers. Our longest-serving members are Pam and Stewart Taylor, who, for the past eighteen years, have driven here from Scotland each September and never missed a session until returning in May. We feel that the task that Naresh gave me all those years ago has been fulfilled and we have made many friends and enjoyed the fun and laughter that is the hallmark of our little group.

Here is another quickly-made supper-dish that you can eat watching the TV when you get home late, after one of those crazy evening games. It includes the use of partly-baked, white baguettes which are not ideal for the average expat bowler; we should be eating only ‘entera’ bread at our age. But ‘What the Hell !’….. it won’t kill us.

IZI PANINI Put your oven on high, about 220C, to pre-

heat.

drop of oil.

Take one baguette for each person. Turn each on its side and slice it in two along its length then cut the lengths in two to produce four slices ready to be spread with a little olive oil and tomato sauce. Cover them all with a layer of processed cheese slices, ready for the topping.

Using a spoon, cover each slice of bread with the mixture. Sprinkle with grated cheddar or similar and add two halved small tomatoes, face down, on each slice. Put them on a rack in the oven for about 12 minutes. You even have a quick crossword to do below as they are cooking

In a mixing bowl, put fresh ingredients of your choice; all finely chopped. We like bacon, onion, fresh tomato (skinned), peppers and a touch of garlic. All well- seasoned and with herbs of your choice and mixed well with a

Take them out, a dash of black pepper, and eat them whilst they are hot. Cheap, easy, lovely ! If you have a quick and easy recipe for a light meal, suitable for supper after an evening game of bowls, send it to me and I shall make up the dish and photograph it for our readers, before sharing it with Ann.......Carl

QUICKIE

crossword DOWN

ACROSS 7.

Reason (5)

Happening (10)

Pilot (5)

Prophet (4)

Flood (7)

Suffer (7)

Blow (6)

Pulverise (5)

Scare (8)

10.

Deer-meat (7)

11.

Despairing (10)

12.

Orders (10)

15.

Unmoved (10)

13.

Natural (8)

18.

Mistake (5)

14.

Beg (7)

16.

Gloss (6)

17.

Dissuade (5) Chef (4)

19.

Prosper (7)

21.

Coach (7)

20.

22.

Sea (5)

(Solution on page 54)

JACKIE STANDS DOWN

Malaga host National Squad at Indalo

Jackie Breslin and his wife, Bridget, ran Albir Bowls Club for many years and became famous for holding big-money competitions. He bowled in the Spanish squad and over the years he also captained many of the teams. More recently, however, he has assisted in the running of the squad and the training of the International players. We are sorry to learn of his retirement from the National Squad but trust that he will continue to enjoy the game at club level for many years to come.

A day without bowling wouldnâ€™t kill me .... but why risk it?

Indalo Bowling Club hosted a test-match weekend between the Spanish National Squad and a team made up of seven different clubs from the Malaga Region. Indalo Bowling Clubâ€™s own Spanish Squad member Debbie Colquhoun, was joined by other IBC players, namely Jenny Thompson, Gill Atkinson and Ann Reynolds, to make up the National team to take on the Malaga Clubs. As usual it was a very competitive affair with some amazing bowling and some that made the novices watching feel a bit better about their own game! The

Malaga area came out on top over the two days with some very close and energy-sapping games, much to the delight of the spectators. In spite of the defeat the new National Squad Manager, Graham Cathcart, ably assisted by John Colquhoun, said that the future, in spite of certain challenges, was looking bright. Next stop for the players is Cyprus in March. Everyone agreed that the weekend had been a great success with the atmosphere and conditions at the Indalo Bowling Club helping to create a very enjoyable playing arena. www.indalobowlingclub.org.

FR O M THE RINK : One of the advantages that bowling has over golf is that you seldom lose a ball !

SPANISH BOWLS SPORTING CHAMPIONS It cannot be pure coincidence that three of Spain's top bowlers have also excelled in other sports. We asked them to tell us the secret of their success. RUSSELL MARKS Formerly one of the stars of Spain's national bowls team and winner of many competitions, culminating in becoming our National Men's Singles winner in 2012 and Champion of Champions Men's Singles winner just last month, Russell is equally successful on the golf-course. At the age of 65, with a handicap of One, he can claim no less than four holes-in-one at the Villamartin club and was the Club Champion the same year as he was Club Champion at San Miguel Bowls Club. I asked him if he could explain his success in both sports. He said “ Success in golf and bowls go hand in-hand I believe. How do

I explain that? Well, most Golf/Bowls players will tell you that putting and bowling share the same skills. Pace and line along with hand-eye coordination and a process that is repeatable will produce winners in Golf and Bowls. All sounds very deep, but that is the mentality I have adopted throughout my career.” KEITH JONES Possibly Spain's most successful bowler, at one time ranked 16th best amateur Men's Singles Player in the world, he has been our National Singles Champion four times. In the UK, Keith played professional cricket for Middlesex for many years and was a successful medium-paced bowler. Our picture shows him at the height of his bowling career, when he swept the board in the 2005 Spanish National Championships.

NICK COLE Nick has been Spain's Single Champion 3 times. Coming from a bowling family, he has been the anchor of Spain's national team for many years. He leaves Spain each Summer to take up his post in Germany, where , in 1993, he joined 36 other pros to teach at Europe's biggest golf school; Golf Resort Bad Griesbach. He now coaches at the prestigious Ullersdorf golf complex near Dresden. To be top of both sports is exceptional. Nick says “ I was chosen to be captain of England boys' golf team when I was young, probably because I showed both a natural ability and a willingness to learn and practise what I was taught. I learned a lot about bowls from my parents and applied the same dedication in perfecting my delivery as I did to perfecting my golf swing.”

WRONG-BIAS CLUB’S FIRST VICTIM Your editor is ashamed to admit to being the first applicant for membership of The Wrong-Bias Charity Club. On Monday 29th February, playing for The San Miguel Comets against a San Luis team, he bowled a wronglybiased wood (to the disgust of

his team-mates). He has issued himself with a certificate, which is on display at San Miguel Bowls Club, certifying that he has paid five euros into The Wrong-Bias Charity Fund. He hopes that this will be the first of many donations .

IF YOU BOWL A WRONG-BIAS --- PAY UP !

s ll Mark Russe

Keith J ones

ole Nick C

N I W 18

low Quiz be s l w o B ur With o

An EMSMORN EXPLORER hard case trolley bag

Our thanks to EMSMORN for their kind donation of an EXPLORER hard case trolley bag worth over 100 euro.

WORTH OVER

100 EURO

ENTRIES by email to office@bowlsespana.com by 1st JUNE 2016. In the event of a tie a public draw will take place at San Miguel Bowls Club on SATURDAY 4th JUNE. Correct answers and the name of the winner will be published in THE LEADER on MONDAY 6th JUNE. The decision of the Editor is final.

1 Who was this year's

and 2014?

he do?

Men's Singles World Indoor Bowls Championship winner?

9 What club does the

15 Which past member of

Spanish National team manager play for?

Ultra strong and lightweight

2 Who did Thongsbridge

10 Which Spanish bowls

the Spanish National Championships committee played at Wembley in 1966?

beat in last year's world bowls final?

champion is a golf pro?

16 Where did Callum

- a high tech versatile 2

Wraight win his national bowls Champion-ofChampion Singles final last year?

compartment mid-sized

3 Sir Francis Bacon, Sir Walter Raleigh, Victor Hugo, Lord Macauley. What did they have in common?

4 Where does Indalo

11 What Costa Blanca club's green was formerly a tennis court

12 Why is Southampton Old Bowling Green famous?

Who were Gold Medal winners of the Ladies' Pairs in the 2013 European Bowls Championships ?

8 Who won the SABA Ladies Singles in both 2010

trolley bag. Kangaroo style exterior pocket for easy access.

17 What marked the

18 In a game of pairs,

6 When is the only time Where were the 2007 Spanish National Bowls Championships Finals played?

polyester inner lining. Style

boundaries between rinks in the 1995 English Bowls Championships?

Bowls Club get its name?

you can nominate a bowl as a toucher?

ABS/Polycarbonate with a

what should two leads do if they cannot agree after measuring?

Which San Miguel BC player won Singles, Pairs and Triples in one National Championship?

the wind what happens next?

14 If a skip sees that the

20 Who did Shropshire

jack is not centred correctly and the first wood is approaching, what should

Premier Bowling League ban from league competitions again this year?

19 If the jack is moved by

BOWLERSâ€™ FORUM If you would like to express your views on how to attract more entries to the National Championships, or on any

S U D O K U

C H A L L E N G E

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 Solution on page 54

other bowls-related subject, we would be delighted to hear what you have got to say. Please email your letter to our Bowlersâ€™ Forum for the attention of the Editor. Although your details must be included you may request that your name is withheld. office@bowlsespana.com

In the last edition I spoke about winning ways. Did you try out the exercise and, if so, how did you fare?

Back to Basics Lawn Bowling is for

Was it great, could do better, or just frustrating?

The best way to do this is to keep your delivery as straight and simple as possible.

From time to time all bowlers, no matter how experienced, have games they wish they had never started or wonder if, perhaps, itâ€™s a good time to embrace the game of tiddly-winks !.

Keeping everything straight, including your body and back-swing, along with limiting your movement during delivery, will give you the best chance of being able to replicate your delivery, thus keeping consistency very high.

Experienced bowlers who have practiced to become consistent, suffer less from this problem. Have you ever wondered why top sportspeople have coaches? So, if you find that you are not consistent with your delivery, say only one out of three bowls delivered ends where you think you have sent it, step back and take stock of what you do. Now, of course, unless you are a contortionist, you will not be able to observe your own actions, so do ask an experienced coach to watch you, and evaluate your bowling action. Once you have a smooth consistent delivery, the next challenge is to know your aiming point. What is the break-point where your bowl slows down and turns in a curve towards the object you are bowling to? Most bowls turn, if delivered with the right weight, twothirds of the way between the front of the mat and the jack. ( The Aero bowls travel in an arc, so the turn is half-way between mat and jack.)

EVERYONE

Straight For a start you must line your feet up with your aiming line, especially your anchor-foot (the foot that stays on the mat with your weight on it). You should always step onto the mat with your anchor-foot first, while lining it up with your aiming-line. Next, bring your opposite foot up alongside your anchor-foot into a comfortable position. It can help to place the opposite foot half-afoot length in front of the anchor-foot and have the feet slightly apart. This helps to swing the hip out of the way. Minimal movement

KEEPING IT STRAIGHT AND SIMPLE

Now that you have your feet and body in the right direction, your bowling arm needs to be positioned so that it is slightly outside your body. This enables your back-swing to go straight back and straight through during delivery.

The name of our game is to be consistent, and to be able to be consistent you must be able to replicate your delivery with little or no variation; bowl after bowl delivered.

Too many bowlers fall into the trap of starting with their bowling arm in front of their body, which creates the problem of getting around your body during the back-swing. This can

THE "KISS" THEORY

1 Good preparation is important 2 Avoid playing with a pre-existing illness or injury. If in doubt, talk to your doctor.

3 Warm up and stretch before play to improve joint range of motion, promote elasticity of tendons and ligaments and prevent muscular strain.

4 Cool down after play to prevent stiffness and cardiovascular complications.

cause a round-arm or scoop delivery. This often leads to consistently narrow bowling, which makes it extremely difficult to bowl the correct line; to replicate a smooth, accurate delivery end-after-end. A great way to counteract this, and to see if your back swing is straight, is either to have someone video it from the back and front, or to stand straight in front of a mirror and watch the line your bowling arm takes from the start of delivery to the point of release. (Probably best not to use a bowl just in case you hit the mirror, hold a grapefruit or large orange if you feel more comfortable with a weight in your hand). Your arm should swing through freely and smoothly like a pendulum, with no deviations.

strengthen the lower extremities, back and neck, to help prevent falls.

7 Good technique and practices will help prevent injury

8 Know the rules and play fairly. 9 Seek instruction on correct techniques from an accredited coach to develop adequate skills and good game technique. Incorrect technique such as poor balance and delivery, or incorrect grip of the bowl, can lead to injury.

5 Undertake simple pre-season fitness testing

10 Coaches should undertake regular reac-

to ensure you are fit for competition.

creditation and education to ensure their knowledge is kept up-to-date.

6 Undertake balance training and exercises to

FUN UNDER THE FLOODLIGHTS During the Winter here in Spain, it is too dark to play outside on the green in the evening, but many of our clubs have floodlights that are seldom or never used.

laying under floodlights can be fun. The club that I played for in Geordieland used to play friendly home-and-away games against a Scottish club just over the border, and I once travelled with the team. We received a wonderful, warm reception. As the game progressed, each player, with their opposite number, played their woods then adjourned to the bar until they were needed to play again. I still have a vague recollection of drinking a substantial part of the whisky from a golf-ball-shaped bottle. We had a wonderful meal and more drinks. Before we were poured back onto the coach, a few of us went back onto the green and played a few riotous ends in the dark, by the light from the clubhouse window. (When it comes to falling over on the green, grass is quite forgiving!) In the UK,where most players were at work during the day, evening matches were often played in very chilly conditions, especially at the start and end of the outdoor season. The first league game I ever played was an away-game, in the evening, against another Tyneside club. It was at the start of the season and bitterly cold. By the end of the game, I can remember noticing the lights from the adjoining Working Men’s Club being reflected in the iced-over puddles around the rink. I was frozen stiff ! It did not take me long to learn to put on a pair of warm tights or long-johns under my trousers on such occasions. When Jackie Breslin ran those wonderful, good-cash-prizes competitions at Albir club, I remember one competition running so late that it grew dark during the final.There was no floodlighting nor even streetlighting near the club and the final end, which decided the outcome, was played back to the start, towards the clubhouse. The watching crowd on the bank peered through the gloom but could not see the woods approaching until they were close enough to be illuminated by the clubhouse lights. What drama ! Here, in Sunny Spain, it is not so cold and we could all enjoy the occasional fun evening under the floodlights. Ten ends would be enough, then back to the bar or off for a Chinese. (“Isn’t it your turn to drive tonight, Pet ?”)

THE LÍNEA DIRECTA

national lawn bowls

2016

championships

Competition Winners 2015

COMPETITION PROGRAMME THE EMERALD ISLE, 14-28 MAY 2016 PRACTICE SESSION, FRIDAY 13 MAY 2-6PM

WELCOME TO THE LÍNEA DIRECTA NATIONAL BOWLS CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016

t Línea Directa we are delighted to be part of the National Bowls Championship 2016 which takes place this year in Orihuela (Alicante). By doing so we aim to boost and support a centenary sport for which it is necessary to have talents such as enthusiasm, spirit of excellence and desire for perfection. These qualities are a fundamental part of Línea Directa´s DNA and have allowed us to become leaders in the Spanish insurance sector in just over 20 years. Furthermore, since we started to offer our services to foreign clients in 1998, we have always strived to commit the very best attention to all our English speaking clients as they are a key part of our company and success. We would like to wish the best of luck to all participants and thank them for their high involvement in the National Bowls Championship 2016. And as they say, may the best person win!

n Línea Directa estamos encantados de formar parte del National Bowls Championship 2016 que este año se celebra en Orihuela (Alicante). De esta forma, queremos apoyar y dar a conocer un deporte centenario para el que es necesario poseer cualidades tales como entusiasmo, espíritu de superación y afán de perfeccionismo. Unas cualidades que forman parte del ADN de Línea Directa y que nos han permitido convertirnos en líderes del sector asegurador español en poco más de 20 años. Además, desde que en 1998 comenzáramos a brindar nuestros servicios a clientes residentes extranjeros, hemos apostado siempre, con un cariño muy especial, por nuestros asegurados de habla inglesa a los que consideramos una pieza clave dentro de la compañía. Queremos desear mucha suerte a todos los participantes y agradecerles su alto grado de implicación en el National Bowls Championship 2016. Y como se suele decir en estos casos, ¡qué gane el mejor!

Francisco Valencia, Director de Gobierno Corporativo de Línea Directa Aseguradora

NATIONAL DIRECTOR SAYS THAT NEW SPONSORS WILL ENSURE CHAMPIONSHIP SUCCESS

t gives me great pleasure, in this my first year in this new capacity, to welcome all competitors to these Championships, which have been re-named The Línea Directa, in honour of the Sponsors, who have very generously contributed to ensure that this year’s competition will be a success, despite the continued economic restraints. I can personally recommend Línea Directa having used them for at least ten years for Insurance on my cars and house, and on every occasion when I have needed assistance they have been perfect. It has been a difficult year with the introduction of the Unitary fee and the acceptance of Regional fees, which has meant that there is a

considerable difference between the two licences, a fact that I continue to stress to the FEB, so far, without much success. This, added to the fact that the CSD (Sports Council) have withdrawn funding to the International side, because they are not Spanish Nationals, and, according to them, not many play our Sport! On both these points, I will continue to battle to demand that we are given the respect that Lawn Bowls in Spain deserves. I would like to thank my Championship Committee who have worked so hard to ensure that everything will go to plan, to the Owners, Committee and players of Emerald Isle for

offering their excellent facilities, and to the CBUMA for arranging the Umpires. I would also like to give my special thanks to Kevin Reardon and THE LEADER newspaper for all the valuable assistance with the preparation of the advertising and also this programme. All that is left to say, is good luck to everyone of you in The Línea Directa Lawn Bowls National Championships 2016!

Bob Donnelly. National Director.

The National Championship Committee National Director Bob Donnelly carrying out the draw with the Championship Committee. L-R: Tony Capewell, Bob Donnelly, Suzi Cooper and Deidre Leeming

Deidre Leeming I began my bowling career in 1987 in the U.K., after many years as a Netballer. As Ladies’ Club Captain I was successful in leading our club to two League Championships and also winning a Singles Championship on grass. On retiring to Spain in 2002 with my husband Ken, we joined Quesada Bowls Club, where we both served on the Committee. I have served both as Captain and Secretary and I have been the Federation Representative, which has led me, to become Treasurer of Lawn Bowls Spain and currently Secretary and Treasurer of this year’s Spanish Nationals. In 2011 I qualified as an Instructor under the National Coaching Scheme. I am privileged to have won the club Ladies Singles title and in both 2011 and 2013 I was delighted to win the Spanish Nationals as a skip of

the Ladies Rinks for the 2nd time in 2013. Bowls has brought me many happy hours. It is a great sport to keep fit and enjoy the company of many good friends.

in club activities, firstly as club scribe reporting on results & events, then as Vice President, a post I held for three years. I have recently been elected President of the Emerald Isle Bowls Club.

Tony Capewell

Suzi Cooper

I was born in Birmingham but lived most of my earlier life in what is affectionately known as the Black Country in the West Midlands.The majority of my working life was spent in the construction industry and after I got married to Debbie we travelled the country with my work. We lived in seven houses in the first nine years of marriage. Our nomadic life ended when we moved to Kidderminster. We have one daughter, Nicola. In 2004 we moved to Spain and in 2006 I joined the Emerald Isle Bowls Club and became involved

I moved to Spain in 1989 and took up bowls to fill in the time. Little did I know how much time it would actually fill. I was a member at various Northern clubs but was a shareholder member at Benitachell for 9 years before moving to the Torrevieja area to live with Allen. I am currently a member at Quesada and last year I was the Match and Competition Secretary. I am honoured to be involved in this year’s National Championships. I wish all entrants an enjoyable and successful tournament.

CONDITIONS OF PLAY QUALIFICATION & REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTRY: All competitors must be a fully paid up member of the Federacion Espanola de Bolos (F.E.B.) and must be a current paid up green fee member of a club affiliated to the F.E.B. for the duration of the Nationals. In team events all players at the time of entry must be members of the same club and have their Federation membership with that club. All games will be played on a "Knockout" basis, Pairs &Triples: 18 Ends. Singles: first to 21 shots. Players are asked to be prompt and arrive at the venue 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start times. Any player arriving more than 15mins after the start time or rescheduled start time of a game will be disqualified. 1 trial end in each direction before each game as per Law 5.1 OTHER RULES AND CONDITIONS OF PLAY: DRESS CODE: Club Colours or Whites must be worn and all members of the same team must wear the same i.e. either all white or all club colours. FOOTWEAR: Must be smooth soled, without heels designed for bowling and be world bowls approved. Sandals and open shoes must have a back-strap. All composition bowls (see law 52.1.1) must bear a legible stamp which has an expiry date of 1985 or later. STICKERS: All bowls used in the competition up until the semifinals must carry club stickers from the club through which the player has entered the competition. For the

singles discipline, if both players are from the same club, the first named player may be asked to use stickers provided by the controlling body. All singles players must ensure they have sufficient club stickers to put back onto their bowls should this situation arise. For semi-finals and finals, stickers will be provided by the controlling body. At this point, should opposing teams have the same colour stickers; the first named team in the draw will have the choice of changing stickers. Stickers must be adhered to the bowls in line with Law 52.1.8 In any game that becomes mathematically impossible to win the trailing team MUST concede. PRACTICE: Practice will be allowed at the Host-Venues at the stipulated times, once the National Finals have commenced anyone practicing at the Host-venues will be disqualified. If a player or team that has not yet played is due to meet a player or team that has already played on the same day, the player or team that has not yet played can practise provided (a) the Controlling Body gives approval, (b) there is enough time available without delaying the competition, (c) the Controlling Body allocates the rink on which a player or team can practise (where possible they should allocate the same rink as the player or team have already played on.) PLAYERS: Players will be allowed to play on the same rink on the same day providing they are playing in a separate discipline. The team entered into the draw will be deemed to be the constituted team, replacement players to the constituted team are allowed as follows:

PRE-COMPETITION: Pairs 1 Replacement Triples 2 Replacements. BETWEEN ROUNDS: Pairs and Triples 1 Replacement only. During every game there MUST be at least one of the original constituted team playing. NO REPLACEMENT WILL BE ALLOWED IN SINGLES. Replacement players must fulfil the entry conditions above and cannot have already played in the same discipline. SUBSTITUTE: A Substitute may be allowed in line with Laws 33.3, 33.4 and 33.5. Changes to the constituted team pre-competition and between rounds are "Replacements" they are not "Substitutes". In the event of a replacement or substitute being introduced, that player must remain in the team for the duration of the competition and the original player may not return. DISQUALIFICATION: Where a team is found to be in default of the competition rules, it will be disqualified from the competition and the non-offending player/team in the previous match will progress to the next round. EMERGENCY OR DISPUTES COMMITTEE: If there is a need for an Emergency Committee or a disputes Committee, these committees will consist of at least 3 but no more than 5 of the following persons; Umpire of the day from one of the Venues, Member/s of the Controlling Body from one of the Venues and at least 2 members of the Championship Committee. ALL GAMES WILL BE PLAYED TO THE LAWS OF THE SPORT CRYSTAL MARK EDITION 3

PLAYING SCHEDULE TO SEMI FINALS 14TH MAY 2016 11.00 a.m.

OPENING CEREMONY

1.00 p.m.

Mixed Triples 1-5

15TH MAY 2016 10.00 a.m.

Mixed Triples 6-13

2.00 p.m.

Mixed Triples 14-17

16TH MAY 2016

19TH MAY 2016 10.00 a.m. 12.00 p.m. 2.00 p.m. 4.00 p.m.

Men’s Singles 1-8 Ladies Singles 11-15, 22 Men’s Singles 9-16 Men’s Singles 17-24

20TH MAY 2016 10.00 a.m. Men’s Singles 25-32 12.00 p.m. Ladies Singles 19-21 2.00 p.m. Men’s Singles 33-36

10.00 a.m.

Ladies Pairs 1-7

2.00 p.m.

Men’s Pairs 1-7

21ST MAY 2016 10.00 a.m. Mixed Pairs 1-8 2.00 p.m. Mixed Pairs 9-15

10.00 a.m.

Men’s Pairs 8-15

22ND MAY 2016 10.00 a.m. Mixed Pairs 16-23

2.00 p.m.

Ladies Pairs 8-11

17TH MAY 2016

23RD MAY 2016 10.00 a.m. Mixed Pairs 24-27

18TH MAY 2016 10.00 a.m.

Men’s Pairs 16-19

2.00 p.m.

Ladies Singles 1-8

4.00 p.m.

Ladies Singles 9, 10, 16-18

24TH MAY 2016 SEMI FINALS START – SCHEDULE TO BE CONFIRMED

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

MARTIN FOULCER BRIAN ERRINGTON STEVE CANTLEY ROLAND BELL PETER ROSS

STUART DENHOLM

DARREN JOHNSON BARRY ARMSTONG ROBERT CATHCART TERRY MORGAN DAVE MCEWAN

DENNIS BIRKETT

MENS SINGLES

JULIAN PERING DAVID SEWELL

CHRIS COLLIER COLIN HIGHLAND

PRELIMINARY ROUND

GRAHAM PHILLIPS PAT HEANEY GRAHAM CATHCART CHRIS BRAZIER PETER DIX HARRY RHODES CLIFF PLAISTED CYRIL MEDLEY JOHN RIMMER

20 JIM BARRIE

CARL EAGLE

19 FRANK CLOSE

BRIAN ROBERTSON

18 PETER REES

JAMES COUGHLAN

17 PHIL MORRACHAN

DENNIS RHODES

16 KEN HOPE

PAUL HAYWARD

15 KEITH PHILLIPS

TOM DALGLEISH

14 PAUL PARKES

JOHN POOLEY

13 BOB DONNELLY

FIRST ROUND

SECOND ROUND

THIRD ROUND

SEMI FINALS

FINAL

PRELIMINARY 1 VAL COLLIER CHRISTINE SHELDRICK 2 CAROLE DONNELLAN ANN EAGLE 3 CHRIS PARSONS GRACE CATHCART 4 JACQUI JOHNSTON MARY DYER 5 SIMONE MORGAN CAROL RUDGE 6 PAT MCEWAN PAT FISHER 7 JAN DANDO ANN HOLLAND 8 SUZI COOPER NINA MCKENZIE 9 PETA RHODES ANN ALLEN 10 YVONNE MALLABURN MARY WHITELOCK

FIRST ROUND

16 MEL HIGHLAND CAROL BROOMFIELD

17 SHEILA ERRINGTON LINDA PLAISTED

18 BRENDA REES JULIE LINCOLN

SECOND ROUND

SEMI FINALS

LADIES SINGLES

FINAL

PHIL MORRACHAN/KEITH PHILLIPS

7 LEN RUDGE/BRIAN ALLEN

BRIAN ERRINGTON/DAVE CHAMPION

6 DAVE BLACKIE/SCOTT MALDEN

MIKE ROGERS/TOM DALGLEISH

5 RODGER WHITELOCK/MIKE STACEY

JIM BARRIE/PETER REES

4 STEVE CANTLEY/PAUL HAYWARD

DAVE MCEWAN/KEN HOPE

3 JOHN POOLEY/DENNIS RHODES

FRED WILLSHIRE/CLIFF PLAISTED

2 FRANK CLOSE/DAVE CLOSE

JOHN RIMMER/DENNIS BIRKETT

1 STUART DENHOLM/CHRIS COLLIER

PRELIMINARY

COLIN HIGHLAND/CHRIS BRAZIER

MARTIN FOULCER/TONY FRENCH

15 PAUL PARKES/JULIAN PERING

RAY NEALE/ALAN BENTON

14 GRAHAM CATHCART/ROBERT CATHCART

CARL EAGLE/BOB NESBITT

13 CYRIL MEDLEY/STUART HEMMINGS

HARRY RHODES/TERRY MORGAN

12 BOB DONNELLY/PETER ROSS

FIRST ROUND

SECOND ROUND

SEMI FINALS

MENS PAIRS

FINAL

ANN EAGLE /PAT MCEWAN

7 MARY DYER/CAROL RUDGE

LYNN GREENLAND/GAIL WILLSHIRE

6 LIN MILLER/CHRIS PARSONS

SIMONE MORGAN/PAT FISHER

5 BRENDA JIGGINS/CAROLE DONNELLAN

CAROL BROOMFIELD/PETA RHODES

4 MARY WHITELOCK/YVONNE MALLABURN

ANN ALLEN/VAL COLLIER

3 CHRISTINE SHELDRICK/BRENDA REES

JACQUI JOHNSTON/MEL HIGHLAND

2 EILEEN POTTS/SHEILA ERRINGTON

GRACE CATHCART/JULIE LINCOLN

1 NINA MCKENZIE/SHEILA ROBERTSON

PRELIMINARY

SUZI COOPER/DEIDRE LEEMING

FIRST ROUND

SEMI FINALS

FINAL

LADIES PAIRS

FINAL

PRELIMINARY

MIKE ROGERS/MARY DYER

15 PETER REES/BRENDA REES

ANN EAGLE/CARL EAGLE

14 FRANK CLOSE/YVONNE MALLABURN

JAN DANDO/DAVID SEWELL

13 BOB DONNELLY/EILEEN POTTS

PETER DIX/TRISH DIX

12 COLIN HIGHLAND/MEL HIGHLAND

PAT HEANEY/RENATA MULLOY

11 KEITH PHILLIPS/ANN HOLLAND

FRED WILLSHIRE/GAIL WILLSHIRE

10 RODGER WHITELOCK/MARY WHITELOCK

MARTIN FOULCER/MO FOULCER

9 ROBERT CATHCART/JULIE LINCOLN

JACQUI JOHNSTON/CHRIS BRAZIER

8 CLAIRE DYE/TERRY MORGAN

LINDA PLAISTED/CLIFF PLAISTED

7 JIM BARRIE/CHRISTINE SHELDRICK

LEN RUDGE/CAROL RUDGE

6 SUZI COOPER/BARRY ARMSTRONG

DENNIS BIRKETT/CAROLE DONNELLAN

5 HARRY RHODES/PETA RHODES

CHRIS COLLIER/VAL COLLIER

4 JOHN RIMMER/BRENDA JIGGINS

STUART DENHOLM/LYNN GREENLAND

3 BRIAN ERRINGTON/SHEILA ERRINGTON

BRIAN ROBERTSON/SHEILA ROBERTSON

2 GRAHAM CATHCART/GRACE CATHCART

LIN MILLER/STUART HEMMINGS

1 DAVE MCEWAN/PAT MCEWAN

FIRST ROUND

STEVE CANTLEY/ANN ALLEN

SECOND ROUND

SEMI FINALS

FINAL

MIXED PAIRS

MIXED TRIPLES

STEVE CANTLEY/LEN RUDGE/CAROL RUDGE

5 FRANK CLOSE/DAVE CLOSE/YVONNE MALLABURN

CYRIL MEDLEY/BRIAN ALLEN/JAN ALLEN

4 BOB DONNELLY/EILEEN POTTS/PETER ROSS

PETER DIX/TRISH DIX/DEL GUNNING

3 LIN MILLER/STUART HEMMINGS/CHRIS PARSONS

FRED WILLSHIRE/LYNN GREENLAND/GAIL WILLSHIRE

2 MARTIN FOULCER/TONY FRENCH/MO FOULCER

ANN EAGLE/CARL EAGLE/BOB NESBITT

1 JOHN RIMMER/DENNIS BIRKETT/CAROLE DONNELLAN

PRELIMINARY

DAVE MCEWAN/KEN HOPE/PAT MCEWAN

STUART DENHOLM/DON WHITNEY/ANN ALLEN

13 JIM BARRIE/CHRISTINE SHELDRICK/PETER REES

RODGER WHITELOCK/MIKE STACEY/MARY WHITELOCK

12 GRAHAM CATHCART/ROBERT CATHCART/GRACE CATHCART

PHIL MORRACHAN/KEITH PHILLIPS/CHRIS PHILLIPS

11 JACQUI JOHNSTON/COLIN HIGHLAND/MEL HIGHLAND

BRIAN ERRINGTON/DAVE CHAMPION/SHEILA ERRINGTON

10 HARRY RHODES/CAROL BROOMFIELD/PETA RHODES

CHRIS COLLIER/MARY DYER/VAL COLLIER

9 SUZI COOPER/DEIDRE LEEMING/CHRIS BRAZIER

FIRST ROUND

SECOND ROUND

SEMI FINALS

FINAL

PAIRS

SINGLES

Ladies’ Nationals Roll of Honour YEAR VENUE

WINNER

CLUB

1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Almería Málaga North Alicante Málaga South Alicante Málaga North Alicante South Alicante Málaga North Alicante South Alicante South Alicante North Alicante South Alicante Malaga South Alicante * South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante

Joan Simmonds Dorrien Ives Teresa Stafford Crystal Toleman Sheila Stead Teresa Stafford Dot North Val Sherry Mary Potter Sheila Stead Erica Hooper Sheila Stead Ann Eagle P Rhodes Doreen Hall Val Sherry Val Sherry June Jones Jan Dando Ann Allen Jan Dando

El Cid Los Amigos El Cid La Siesta La Siesta El Cid Benitachell San Luis Santa Mária Greenlands Santa Maria Greenlands San Miguel La Siesta Cabrera San Luis San Luis Emerald Isle Indalo Horadada Indalo

1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Almería Málaga North Alicante Málaga South Alicante Málaga Málaga South Alicante Málaga North Alicante South Alicante South Alicante North Alicante South Alicante Malaga South Alicante * South Alicante South Alicante Malaga South Alicante South Alicante

Joan Simmonds / Teressa Stafford Dorothy Nuttall / Christine Sims Joan Simmonds / Teresa Stafford Dorothy Nuttall / Christine Sims Mavis Dugdale / Teresa Stafford Isabel Nielson / Joan Whitton Mavis Dugdale / Judith Pursey Sheila Stead / Margaret Hern Wendy Latham / Mary Shanks Maggie Lawley / Feli Croft Chris Evans / Sheri Fletcher Chris Evans / Sheri Fletcher Ann Eagle / Sabrina Marks Shirley Verity / Sheila Cammack Judy Abel / Doreen Hall Russell Marks / Sabrina Marks Ann Eagle / Sabrina Marks Ann Eagle / Sabrina Marks Kate Morris / Mary Detheridge Peta Rhodes / Lisa Bonsor Mel Highland / Jacqui Johnston

El Cid Miraflores El Cid Miraflores El Cid Superbowl El Cid Greenlands La Marina Benitachell Javea Javea San Miguel Country Bowls Cabrera San Miguel San Miguel San Miguel Belplaya Quesada Quesada

Tony Pilling / Crystal Toleman / Bill Toleman Maureen Baillie / Kate Morris / Patsy Fisher Joan Moss / Sheila Heitman / Evelyn Spencer Maureen Keir / Shirley Whitehead / Pat Fung On Dorothy Nuttal / Daphne Steel / Pamela Murch Kate Morris / Audrey Curtis / Patsy Fisher Dot North / Wendy Symonds / Maureen How Dot North / Wendy Symonds / Maureen How Bert Campbell / Daphne Steel / Kevin Bagnall Nick Cole / Pam Cole / John Sullivan Sally Lewington /Peta Fraser /Crystal Tolman Lynne Greenland / Margaret Hinchliffe / Angie Goodfellow Margaret Bunbury / Chris Evans / Sheri Fletcher Margaret Bunbury / Gail Chick / Sheri Fletcher Mary Detheridge / Angie Knight / Marjorie Johns J Colquhoun / J Dando / D Colquhoun A Holland / P Lockett / J Jones Gina Streeter / Sally Cordell / Sandra Burrows Sara Hamer / Hazel Brown / Yvonne Briden Sue Johnson / Marylin Fryatt / Lin Miller Peta Rhodes / Jacqui Johnston / Lisa Bonsor

La Siesta Superbowl Javea Green Cabrera Santa Mária Superbowl Benitachell Benitachell Superbowl Mijas La Siesta Greenlands Javea Green Javea Green Superbowl Indalo Emerald Isle Emerald Isle El Cid Greenlands Quesada

Audrey Hornby / Marjorie Cox / Sally Jack / Betty Duckett Marie C. Foletti / Marion Wilson / Kate Shields / Jean Taylor Penny Pym / Dot North / Sheila Harris / Angela Watson Jim Sweeney / Bill Sheen / Ken Ratcliffe / Bill Young Dorothy Nuttal / Daphne Steel / Pamela Murch / Harriet Foxwell Dot North / Feli Croft / Maureen How / Angela Watson Dot North / Feli Croft / Laura Shacklady / Maureen How Enid Chapman / Ann Fowles / Val Wright / Joyce Tovey Jimmy Chalmers / Kate Morris / Richard Jones / Geoff Lewis Pam Cole / Ron Cole / Nick Cole / John Sullivan Ann Horswell /Maureen Jackson /Carol Rudge / Val Sherry Margaret Bunbury / Joan Moss / Chris Evans / Sheri Fletcher Margaret Bunbury / Joan Moss / Chris Evans / Sheri Fletcher C Meare / W Symond / C Evans / M Lawley Maureen Barrett / Carole Cornwell / Pat Fisher / Shirley Owen B Duff / S Pearson / R Pollock / R White D Leeming / D Lawton / G Watson / V Sale Jill Parker / Jan Pocock / Eve Blythe / Diane Lawton Lisa Bonsor / Diane Lawton / Deidre Leeming / Maureen Kidd Sheila Stead / Sue Johnson / Jan Pocock / Lin Miller Peta Rhodes / Marianne Holtham / Jacqui Johnston / Lisa Bonsor

First Lawn Superbowl Benitachell La Marina Santa Mária Benitachell Benitachell Quesada Superbowl Mijas Emerald Isle Javea Green Javea Green Benitachell Superbowl Emerald Isle Quesada Greenlands Quesada Greenlands Quesada

TRIPLES

(1993, 1994, 2003 & 2004 were Open) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

(1993, 1994, 2003 & 2004 were Open)

FOURS

1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Please Note:

1998 Championships were not contested. * 2010 Mixed sex competition

PAIRS

SINGLES

Men’s Nationals Roll of Honour YEAR VENUE

WINNER

CLUB

1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Almería Málaga North Alicante Málaga South Alicante Málaga Málaga South Alicante Málaga North Alicante South Alicante South Alicante North Alicante South Alicante Malaga South Alicante* South Alicante South Alicante North Alicante South Alicante South Alicante

Ron Bisset John Young Harry Winfield Derek Shemmings Alan Blyth Ron Player Nick Cole Tony Pilling John Young Nick Cole Keith Jones Keith Jones Nick Cole Tony McKenna Mark Naylor Keith Jones Keith Jones Russell Marks Tony McKenna Pete Bonsor Pete Bonsor

Superbowl Santa Mária Benitachell Miraflores La Siesta San Miguel Mijas La Siesta Santa Maria Mijas San Miguel Lemon Tree Belamadena Albir Indalo Emerald Isle Emerald Isle San Miguel Javea Green Quesada Quesada

1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Almería Málaga North Alicante Málaga South Alicante Málaga Málaga South Alicante Málaga North Alicante South Alicante Málaga North Alicante South Alicante Malaga South Alicante* South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante

Harry Kinloch / Norman Robertson Cliff Whitehead /Clive Brindle Harry Winfield / Mick Adams Norman Robertson / Terry Fox John Dugdale / Terry Walsh Hadyn Parker / Norman Robertson David Poole /Alex Fisher Malcolm Roberts / John Sullivan John Withers / Allen Bowen Nick Cole / John Sullivan Keith Jones / Russell Marks Kevin Bloe / Mike Detheridge Murray Johns / Tony Frowd Tony McKenna / Jackie Breslin Andy Salmon / Alan Turner Russell Marks / Sabrina Marks Stuart Hemmings / A McNeil Ian Brown / Derek Randall Colin Jackson / Mal Hughes Pete Bonsor / Bill Pain Jason Prokopowycz / Derek Sale

Santa Mária Cabrera Benitachell Santa Mária El Cid Santa Mária Javea Green Santa Mária Greenlands Mijas San Miguel Belamadena Mijas Albir Superbowl San Miguel 2011 San Miguel El Cid San Luis Quesada Quesada

Tony Pilling / Crystal Toleman / Bill Toleman Martin Shannon / Gordon Shields / Dennis Taylor Jim Sweeney / Norman Legg / Bill Young John Withers / Tony Pilling / Bill Toleman N. Harvey / Robert Carter / John Horobin Alan Smith / Alan Gamble / Terry Walsh Tom Finnigan / Dennis Humpleby / Terry Barrett David Poole / Brian Ainscow / Alex Fisher Bert Campbell / Daphne Steel / Kevin Bagnall Nick Cole / Pam Cole / John Sullivan Reg Cooper / Keith Jones / Russell Marks David Dean / Keith Jones / Sam Russell Len Rudge / Stuart Hemmings / Russell Marks Tony McKenna / A Sharp / Jackie Breslin Paul Abel / Ian Brewster / Derek Webb J Colquhoun / J Dando / D Colquhoun R Rawlings / E Shepherd / K Watson John Haigh / Derek Sale / Fred Roberts John Muldoon / Bill Pain / Pete Bonsor John Muldoon / Bill Pain / Pete Bonsor Dennis Birkett /Brian Patton / Peter Whitehall

La Siesta Superbowl La Marina La Siesta Quesada Javea Green Mijas Javea Green Superbowl Mijas San Miguel Lemon Tree San Miguel Albir Cabrera Indalo Emerald Isle Quesada Quesada Quesada Country Bowls

Ron Bisset / David Thorne / Derek Curtis / Keith St. John Bryan Redington /Cliff Whitehead /Wally Kingaby /Clive Brindle Mike Parry / Roy Terry / Andy Nelson / Fred Harris Jim Sweeney / Bill Sheen / Ken Ratcliffe / Bill Young John Wright / Geoff Stafford / Terry Walsh / John Dugdale Malcolm Roberts / Brian Murch / Chic Young / Bill Nuttall John Ramage / David Meare / Alec Snedden / Alex Fisher John Sullivan / Brian Murch / Allan Carr / Malcolm Roberts Jimmy Chalmers / Kate Morris / Richard Jones / Geoff Lewis Pam Cole / Ron Cole / Nick Cole / John Sullivan Jim Sweeney / Ronnie Cairns / Fred Norris / Bill Young Tony Woods / Fred Simpson / Tony Cummings / Mike Rowlands Dean Tew / Geoff Weaver / Matt Tew / Mick Johnson D Moon / S Gregory / H Chick / B Manser Malcolm Greenwood / Sandy Guthrie / Ken McBride / Neil Marshall B Duff / S Pearson / R Pollock / R White F Wilshire / J Haigh / D Sale / B Pain Keith Jones / Colin Lindgren / Steve Pearson / Noel Verity Colin Jackson / Allen Bowen / John Withers / Mal Hughes Ronnie Cairns / Jason Prokopowycz / Derek Sale / Fred Roberts William Holtham / John Muldoon / Bill Pain / Pete Bonsor

Superbowl Cabrera Benitachell La Marina El Cid Santa Mária Javea Santa Mária Superbowl Mijas La Marina Finca Guila Indalo Javea Benavista Emerald Isle Quesada Emerald Isle San Luis Quesada Quesada

TRIPLES

(1993, 1994, 2003 & 2004 were Open) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Almería Málaga North Alicante Málaga South Alicante Málaga Málaga South Alicante Málaga North Alicante South Alicante South Alicante North Alicante South Alicante Malaga South Alicante* South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante

(1993, 1994, 2003 & 2004 were Open)

FOURS

1994 1995 1996 1997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Almería Málaga North Alicante Málaga South Alicante Málaga Málaga South Alicante Málaga North Alicante South Alicante North Alicante North Alicante South Alicante Malaga South Alicante* South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante South Alicante

Please Note:

1998 Championships were not contested. * 2010 Mixed sex competition.

Shoes Make a Difference

When coaching I always look at the footwear of the bowler; it is surprising how much difference a well-fitting pair of shoes make. Very loose, sloppy sandals, down -at-heel, uneven heels, loose soles, even just too tight and pinching the foot, makes such a difference to the basic bowling action.

It is surprising how much difference a well-fitting pair of shoes make

….. by Ruth Compton

flops, clogs and stability shoes (stiff-soled shoes often recommended for comfort and stability). The study found the loads on the knee joints were up to 15% higher with the clogs and stability shoes. Why the difference? The lead researcher of the study said heel height is one factor—higher heels might lead to greater loads on the knees.

I came across an article on the subject and thought how much easier it would be to be able to bowl without pain; this may be the answer for you.

Another element to be considered is stiffness. Because barefoot walking has been shown to be associated with lower knee loads, it’s likely that the flat walking shoes and the flipflops, because they allow the foot to flex, more closely mimic the experience of walking barefoot, but might make the wearer more

A lot of people buy shoes because of how stylish they look. Others buy them for a specific purpose, such as playing sport or workplace safety. But the results of a new study recently presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Rheumatology, suggest that some people might want to buy them for how they might help their knee and hip osteoarthritis.

The construction of the shoe should also conform to the Laws of the Sport of Bowls

28 patients were fitted with a shoe that looked just the same as the first, except for one crucial difference—this shoe had a metal plate in the sole that reduced bending.

The research was conducted by specialists at Rush University Medical Centre in Chicago. They were interested in finding out, when it came to knee pain, if there was any difference between flat, flexible shoes and shoes with stiff soles. They recruited 50 participants for the study: 22 of them were given what the researchers called “mobility shoes”—shoes with flexible soles that allowed the feet to bend in the same way as if the wearer were barefoot. The other

After the subjects wore the shoes for 48 weeks, the researchers found those who wore the mobility shoes had experienced more improvements than those who wore the stiffsoled shoes. In addition, the mobility shoe wearers saw a reduction in the load on their knees. The new study was a follow-up to an earlier one conducted by the same specialists. In that study, they compared five types of walking. The first was barefoot. The others involved four kinds of shoes: flat walking shoes, flip-

likely to fall. Nevertheless, they concluded that people suffering from knee osteoarthritis might want to think about trading in their stiff-soled shoes for lightweight, flexible ones.

C RY P T I C

ACROSS. 7. Priest removes the tail from the animal (5) 8. The girl describing most of the epistles! (7) 9. Sink a coal-carrying vessel (7) 10. Currently changing (5) 12. Does it give a ghostly light? (6-4) 15. Right-handed key (6,4) 18. Located like a gun, we hear (5) 19. Dressed for an attack, by the sound of it (7) 21. Bases of justification for the dregs (7) 22. Get down in good condition (5) DOWN 1. Academic programme provides us with a hopeful outlook (10) 2. An attack of illness is concerning (5 3. One way to slim down Parliament (4) 4. Seem to be a soft fruit (6) 5. Name for underwater vessel? (8) 6. Faulty distribution that may result in a reshuffle (7) 11. Getting the message by oral, not aural, means! (3-7) 13. Chivalrous types, but causing a row among friends (8) 14. Turn one into an uncharged particle (7) 16. Carriage on which the Frenchman sits (6) 17. Air of devotion about eastern deity (5) 20. Strikes when the boom returns (4)

SOLUTION ON PAGE 54

A Place in the Sun at San Miguel Despite the heavy clouds and constant threat of rain a film crew from the Channel 4 television programme ‘ A Place in the Sun’ visited San Miguel Bowls Club recently where they spent a couple of hours filming a clip for the property show that will be broadcast later in the year. Everything, of course, was stage-managed with many of the clips shot on two or three occasions, with interior designer and tv presenter Ben Hillman posing the questions. The filming centred around the visit to the Orihuela Costa and Torrevieja of mother and daughter Denise and Rebecca from Newark. The pair are looking for a dwelling in the area prior to the

mother’s retirement. In anticipation of having far more time on her hands, Denise showed an interest in lawn bowling to the programme makers; hence the visit to San Miguel. The trio were hosted by Club Secretary Pat McEwan who gave them all a brief explanation of the finer points of the sport, then joining them as they each played a couple of ends. As might be expected, the presenter and his guests showed that their skills were not quite up to the Summer League standard, and with the gulley gathering up most of their efforts, neither were they likely to be anytime soon.

La Marina edge thrilling Community Cup In a bowls game at Club San Miguel First I stumbled, then tripped, then I fell. "See you're back on the wine!" Said some cheeky old swine So I told him to go straight to Hell ! by Ann Onymous A keen lady bowler in Spain Had wind and a slight tummy-pain Whilst changing her stickers She pumped in her knickers Which left an indelible stain.

By Bob Donnelly

his 3-day, 5-players-per team competition, played on a knock-out basis, comprises Pairs and Triples in the morning, followed by Singles and Fours in the afternoon. This year Bonalba were the hosts, and, as usual, provided excellent facilities and food, for which we all offer our thanks. The Umpires and Markers also deserve our thanks for the efficient and diligent manner in which they worked. The first day saw some excellent bowling, only spoiled by the withdrawal of one team, which gave a bye to another team into the semi-finals on the second day. This saw San Miguel ‘A’ against Javea, which was decided after the Singles were completed, when San Miguel could not be beaten. In the other semi-final

La Marina were in a similar situation against San Miguel ‘B’. On the final day, whilst all games were closely contested in the morning, La Marina won the Trips by 10 shots and the Pairs by 3 ,which left a lot for San Miguel to achieve. They started the afternoon session leading slightly in the Fours, and in the Singles surging back to make a thrilling finish but, with La Marina triumphing in the end, this meant that San Miguel couldn't win, so they conceded the Fours, making La Marina worthy winners. Congratulations to all the players for providing such a high standard of bowling throughout the Competition, which was appreciated by the spectators.

There was once an umpire called Fred The shirt that he wore was bright red When down on his knees He gave a big sneeze And blew the jack out of the head LB While Eric was polishing his bowls At the fireplace, near to the red coals Some sparks struck his feet And the terrible heat Set fire to his rubber insoles LB We played on in the wind and the rain It's the rule, but in this, it's insane We were soaked to the skin But still managed a grin It's the wrong kind of weather for Spain

Email your limericks to the Editor for inclusion in the next edition.

Blevins Franks 9th Canarian Pairs Championships STORY AND PHOTO BY WILLIAM ROGERSON

The 9th Blevins Franks Canarian Pairs Championship was played at Tenerife Green Bowls Club, with 32 teams taking part. In the quarter-finals, strongly-fancied Bob Booton and Graham “Sleeves” Cathcart took an extra end to prevail over Jim and Jeanie Galashan and secure a place in the semi-finals, where they met the 2013 champions Norman “Technical Glide” Gardiner and Robert Cathcart. The other semi was played between 2012 champions Bill Rogerson and John Gilchrist and Brian and Carol Allan. Bill and John played their way into the final against the Allans and Norman was in fine form when he and Robert beat Bob and Graham in the other semi. The final proved to be a very well-contested affair and, although it was played

in some tricky, windy conditions, both teams produced some excellent bowling; full of twists, turns and excitement, with the match going right down to the wire. The score was tied at 13-each going into the last end and, as the two leads swapped over, it was a close measure for shot. It just couldn’t be any closer. The skips played 3 bowls each and the situation remained the same. You could taste the tension in the air, it was magnificent for the spectators, of course. Meanwhile the players were running short on finger nails! John Gilchrist to play his last bowl first and it’s on a good line. It’s all down to weight. As his bowl reaches the head, it gives his team mate’s bowl (which was in the measure) a slight nudge-on and the bowl comes to rest 2 to 3 inches from the jack. John & Bill are lying match but Norman still has the last bowl. The players just couldn’t watch. Norman’s done this a

thousand times before, one more big bowl required, the Championship hanging in the balance. Norman takes his time and delivers his bowl, the line is marginally tight but it’s all about the running, is he heavy enough to hold for the jack or the bowl? Two yards before the head and the bowl starts to turn under. Surely he’s not going to get one of his famous “technical glides” now. John and Bill wait for a brief second then erupt in euphoria as Norman’s bowl dips under everything and the match is over. What a final! It couldn’t have been any closer. What a climax to a magnificent tournament! An absolutely brilliant effort from everyone involved. Huge congratulations to all the players and especially to our newly-crowned 2015 National Pairs Champions, Bill Rogerson and John Gilchrist, who are pictured here with sponsor, Paul Montague of Blevins Franks.

Hi Carl We were delighted that you were able to attend our Presentation Lunch and intend to add petanca features to your bowling magazine. The Las Salinas League is the biggest league in the area with six divisions of eight teams in each. The main competition is our Winter League which runs from October to March. The matches are played on a Friday and we have almost six hundred people playing every week. We also operate a smaller Summer League which is still competitive, but played with the emphasis more on fun and friendship. This league starts in April and finishes early July. Should anyone be interested in playing either in leagues or just for fun, I can be contacted on tullyandboyd@hotmail.com, and I would be delighted to give details of the club nearest to them. They can also visit our website at Google â€˜ las salinas petanca 1â€™, which gives detailed locations and contact numbers of every club in our league. Best Regards and Good Luck with your magazine. Tom Boyd President Las Salinas Petanca League

THE SUNSHINE FINALS

Rocajuna claimed the Cup with a 5 - 2 win

By Susan Ward Big congratulations. This match caused some fun as both teams wear the same colour shirts so if not knowing who held the shot, all one had to do was shout ' come on you purples'...can do no wrong then. Both finals were played in a fun and friendly way and afterwards all present were very well fed and lots of laughter could be heard. The Pumas were disappointed to lose out after taking an early lead

There are certain petanca matches that remain in your memory and the final of the Radio Sunshine Petanca League's Cup and Plate was one of those. It was held on the 9th March at Domino Bar in Los Altos. The weather didn't behave itself that well as the day started off cool and very windy. The sun did eventually show its face but the wind was there most of the time the matches were in progress. The Cup match was between The Pumas and Rocajuna petanca clubs and although the Pumas won the first two triples they failed to win any further matches and Rocajuna claimed the Cup with a 5 - 2 win. Congratulations Rocajuna and to both teams for playing in a joyful and fair manner. The Plate was a closely contested fight between Costa Knights and Los Altos Jets. After the first four triples the Jets were 3- 1 up, so the Knights had to win all three doubles - whew, no pressure then! - . The Knights won 1 double 13 - 3, then the 2nd , so it all rested on the 3rd and the excitement reached fever pitch and although the

Knights played well it was The Jets who took the match. The Jets were the winners with a 4 - 3 score. The Jets took the Plate Competition by 3-2

The Committees thanks go to Domino Bar for hosting the occasion and to Colin for being the referee, who was kept so busy during some matches. The presentation was accompanied by a delicious hog-roast with all the trimmings. The Sunshine Summer League got underway last month on Wednesday 6th April.

AMIGOS BELGAS SWEEP THE BOARD What a season they have had !

I was introduced to the winners, a team

We always like to picture the winners in our magazine and I went along to El Rancho to photograph the winners of the competition played there, for charity, in November last year.

from Amigos Belgas. Since then, it seems that, whenever I turn up to photograph a winning team, it is always them.

I do not know what is the secret of their success but, as a photographer, I must say that they take a good picture. I am reminded of that old saying among sporting people - â€œ Look Good ! Play Good !â€?

PE TANCA SPONSORS WE NEED Y OUR SUPPOR T Carl Eagle. Editor 620 060 611 carlbowlsespana@gmail.com f you are one of the many, kind sponsors who support Petanca in this region, you may be interested in taking advertising space in future issues of our magazine, now

including a special section for petanca players. If you would like to learn more and benefit from our special first-time-advertiser deal, mail us at office@bowlsespana.com or call us 600 228 616. Artwork and photography are included in our special rates. We look forward to hearing from you and working with you to raise the profile of petanca in the region and to attract even more players to this enjoyable sport.

L e t ’s y t rt r a P

The photographs on these pages, which illustrate so well the mood of the function, were taken by my Norwegian friend, the Puma club bowler, Tore Holstad Lehrmann. Nice work Tore ! The Pumas w ere ‘In the P ink’

The Amigas Belgas pose with their trophy

The Asturias Restaurant was packed

Rocajuna with their medals

San Miguel Tigers

The Pink Ladies with Tom and Ian Eastwood

LA SALINAS PETANCA LEAGUE PRESENTATION EVENING What a lot of fun ! There is no equivalent function for lawn bowlers here; each club has its own end-of-season, rather formal, Presentation Evening. What a lot they are missing. Here was The Asturias full of 270 happy people, of many nationalities, having a great time together. It was a credit to the organisers who seem to have got everything right, including their choice of venue. Teams got their medals and trophies and The Pink Ladies another cheque for their good cause. Wonderful !

Carlos, proprietor of The Asturias, with Puma Club friends

League President Tom Boyd with Amigos Belgas Guy Fernandez and Jose Magro

E v e ry o n e a winner

Las Salinas Winter League Results

The Las Salinas winter petanca league has now finished and the summer league begun. In division One, Amigos Belgas 1 came first, closely followed by Los Bandidos, with Rocajuna finishing in third place. In the second division Blagul 1 comfortably took first place. Second place, at the death, came Amigos Belgas 2 ,who pipped Lakeside Mosquitos. In division Three Pumas finished in 1st place with Amigos Belgas 3 taking 2nd place. In 3rd place was El Mirador Kestrels. Division Four winners were Dominos Mc Coys ,followed by Guardamar. Third place went to San Miguel Tigers. In division Five, Rocajuna Lions took top place followed by Blagul 2, third place going to the Falcons. In division Six, Dominos Phoenix were the champions. Over 100 people attended the cup and plate finals, where there were some tense matches played in the sun.

In the cup, Amigos Belgas 1 defeated Buccaneers 6-2, Rocajuna finishing in 3rd place. In the plate finals, Lakeside Mosquitos beat Dominos red 6-2. In 3rd spot came Dominos Mc Coys, defeating Lakeside Hellcats. Thank you to the sponsors Casas Manuel, Redital orange phone and Dominos bar.

PRESS SECRETARY - LINDA S HAYMES PHOTOGRAPHS - GEOFFREY DITCHBURN

Diane Wynne of Javea ions, e champ s le oodfin g ar sin line W u M a e P t n d an Mo Cairns Ronnie

Brenda J and De iggins l Gunn in of Cou ntry Bo g wls

Alan Philips of Javea

s, ll Mark Russe is San Lu

Kath R eid, San Lu is

ier e Prem rs of th ay team e n in eW aw with th Bowls Club ooper Jean C al, San Luis Fin 20 KO

Quesada’s Terry Morgan and Jacqui Johnston

Don Darby, Men’s Singles Champion of El Rancho

ner of ill, win ies m a H e Lad Jan ancho R l E e th s title Single

Frank and Ly Close Hawkinn s of the Em erald Isle

Winners of the 2016 Indalo 4-2-2 Competition, Sue Kemp, Brian Zelin, Geraldine and Gordon Fisher

HELP IN A HURRY

NATIONAL APPOINTMENTS National Director of Lawn Bowls National Squad

Bob Donnelly Graham Cathcart

646 132 362 689 076 690

BOWLING ORGANISATIONS Coaching The Costa Blanca Umpires and Markers Association (CBUMA) South of Alicante Bowls Alliance (SABA) Costa Blanca Bowling Association (CBBA) FED Valencian Bowling Federation FAB Andalucian Bowling Federation

Ruth Compton

693 791 835

Gail Willshire Kath Reid June Jones Pam Lockett Sue Mannall

965 020 492 966 746 687 966 188 920 965 327 645 677 074 982

Bill Dunham Sue Elvin Stan Walmsley Stephen Fletcher Carolyn Harris Stewart Beattie Jean Jolliffe Margaret Barnes Dave Thompson Bill Stanaway Tony Hesketh-Field Liz Mildon Barbara Forshaw Colin Armitage Susan Hattrell Joan Harding Deirdre Leeming Mary Moss Pat McEwan Lin Watkins

965 865 965 634 966 966 966 690 688 966 966 968 648 622 968 965 966 865 966 865

CLUB SECRETARIES Benitachell Bonalba Calpe Country Bowls El Rancho El Cid Emerald Isle Finca Guila Greenlands Horadada Javea Green La Manga La Marina La Siesta Mazarron Monte Mar Quesada San Luis San Miguel Vistabella

Appointments in red are changes since last issue

757 660 838 329 774 404 798 348 285 769 459 338 250 870 163 637 719 775 714 779

333 265 972 249 316 364 062 466 567 026 573 236 035 799 769 500 439 813 257 470

EMERGENCY SERVICES Ambulance Fire Service Police Local Police National Police Guardia Proteccion Civil Sea Rescue

061 or 112 080 or 112 092 091 062 965 713 927 900 202 202

WELFARE HELP LINES AECC MABS North MABS South Age Concern AA CB North AA CB South Drugs Helpline RBL Welfare Salvation Army Help at Home Samaritans Child Abuse Women Abuse Domestic Abuse Suicide Crisis line Red Cross British Consulate Irish Consulate

900 664 699 902 648 625 915 676 966 672 900 917 900 016 966 963 965 965

100 266 152 003 169 912 620 451 423 991 525 262 100

036 991 167 838 045 078 420 780 048 824 100 700 009

421 677 215 107

434 375 022 485

AIRPORTS AND AIRLINES Alicante Murcia Valencia British Airways EasyJet Iberia Jet2 Monarch Ryanair

966 919 968 172 961 598 902 111 902 999 902 400 902 881 800 099 902 585

000 000 500 333 900 500 269 260 230

MEDICAL FACILITIES Torrevieja Hospital Vega Baja Hospital Alicante General Hospital Elche Public Hospital Quiron Hospital

965 965 965 966 966

200 500 300 000 313

MUNICIPAL OFFICES Torrevieja Town Hall San Miguel Town Hall San Fulgencio Town Hall Orihuela Town Hall Orihuela Costa Town Hall Torrevieja Tourist Info Orihuela Costa Tourist Info Rojales Town Hall Elche Town Hall Pilar de la Horadada Guardamar Town Hall

965 710 250 965 720 001 966 794 201 966 736 864 966 760 000 965 703 433 966 760 000 966 715 001 966 658 050 965 352 225 965 729 014

GENERAL The Bowls Shop

966 721 945

721 877 938 679 921

DATE

AREA

CLUB

EVENT

CONTACT

PHONE

MAY 10 14 - 28 May 30 May - 2 June 4 - 6 June

South South North South

Monte Mar Emerald Isle Javea Green La Siesta

CBBA Committee Meeting Spanish Nationals Dave Sackman Memorial Open Triples

CBBA Secretary

96 618 8920

Chris Evans Sue Jordan

96 619 7367 96 678 6791

JUNE 11 June DC 11 - 13 June 13 - 15 June 18 -20 June 25 June 25 - 27 June 28 June

North South North South South South South

Bonalba Country Bowls El Cid Quesada Emerald Isle La Siesta Monte Mar

Open Triples 3-2-1 Open Mixed Triples Aussie Pairs Open Presidents Cup Match v Indalo SABA Triples Competition CBBA Committee Meeting

Sue Elvin Dennis Birkett Derek Randall

96 563 0366 634 418 783 615 335 911

CBBA Secretary

96 618 8920

JULY 2 July 7 July

South South

Quesada Monte Mar

Provincial Match Federation Meeting

Allen Bowen Federation Secretary

96 673 4675 96 532 7645

AUGUST 23 August

South

Monte Mar

CBBA Committee Meeting

CBBA Secretary

96 618 8920

SEPTEMBER 1 - 3 September 5 - 7 September 5 - 8 September 9 - 11 Sept DC 12- 22 Sept DC 13 - 15 September 16 - 19 September 18 September 20 - 23 September 25 Sept - 8 Oct

TBA South North South North South South Almeria South TBA

TBA Emerald Isle Benitachell La Siesta Javea Green Greenlands San Luis Indalo Monte Mar TBA

Linslade Cup Vera Moran OPEN Tournament BBC Masters Federated Cup Iberian Open OPEN Triples SABA Knockout Finals Match v Emerald Isle Santa Pola Mixed Rinks Valencian Championships

Tony Capewell Bert McLean

96 684 8636 96 649 0802

Chris Evans Dave Giddings

96 619 7367 96 671 6941

Dave Melville

96 669 8586

There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch! ere we are in Spain, occasionally enjoying a free ‘tapas’ with the drink we ordered in the bar. (‘Tapa’ is Spanish for a ‘lid’.) It used to be very common for each drink to be

served with a ‘lid’ of a slice of bread covered with a salty meat or fish. (Kept the flies off and made drinkers thirsty for more drink !) I think that Monte Mar is the only club where I have enjoyed a free tapas with an after-the-game drink. A splendid idea ! But….was it a ‘free drink’ ? Did the bar charge a little more than the one round the corner? Enough to pay for their ‘free’ tapas …… and more ? In the typical ‘saloon bar’ of the USofA in the late 19th-century, lunch was often a free, help-yourself affair. Not always very good, but free ….and always very salty ! The drink was seldom cheap and it was not long before someone commented on this common practice and decided, “There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch”. The common use of this bit of homespun philosophy (despite its double-negative, ungrammatical flaw) soon became the acronym TANSTAAFL, which was less of a mouthful but quite simple to understand; so much so that free-market economist Milton Freeman made it the title of his 1975 book . Top marks to the marketing genius who thought up the idea of offering free lunch to retired expats as an incentive to listening to ninety minutes of sales-talk from some leading companies with Spanish branches here. As well as the free lunch, the invitees receive a lot of useful information concerning matters of importance to retired people. Questions posed by the audience are all answered by experts in their field; solutions to problems dealing with Pensions, Investments, Currency Transfer and Funeral Planning are all on offer. For more details, go to …. freelunchspain@gmail.com

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

QUICK....FROM PAGE 14 QUICK ACROSS: Across: 7 Cause; 8 Torrent; 9 Undergo; 10 Grind; 12 Directions; 15 Nonchalant; 18 Error; 19 Succeed; 21 Trainer; 22 Ocean. DOWN: 1 Occurrence; 2 Guide; 3 Seer; 4 Stroke; 5 Frighten; 6 Venison; 11 Despondent; 13 Inherent; 14 Entreat; 16 Lustre; 17 Deter; 20 Cook.

CRYPTIC... CRYPTIC...FROM PAGE 38 ACROSS: 7 Rabbi; 8 Pauline; 9 Scuttle; 10 Tidal; 12 Spirit-lamp; 15 Treble clef; 18 Sited; 19 Arrayed; 21 Grounds; 22 Preen. DOWN: 1 Prospectus; 2 About; 3 Diet; 4 Appear; 5 Subtitle; 6 Misdeal; 11 Lipreading; 13 Paladins; 14 Neutron; 16 Chaise; 17 Hymen; 20 Raps.

SUDOKU SOLUTION