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I S S U E 7 NOVE M B E R 2018
CONTENTS: 4. 6. 8. 10. 14.
17. 18. 19. 26. 28. 30.
32. 34. 38.
AFFORDABLE SKIING THE SIERRA NEVADA AVOIDING EXTINCTION Blacktower Financial Management ‘HE’S RUNNING REF’ Malcolm Armstrong ALBC DRAWN TRIPS Vic Parsons LÍNEA DIRECTA ANDALUCIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS Carolyn Micklefield IBC 2018 LADIES PAIRS Gillian Atkinson QUIZ AND GOLF COMPETITION FEDDI 2018 SPANISH BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS ODE TO THE WINTER LEAGUE David Upton DYER CUP AND APPLEBY VASE Vic Parsons THE MAKING OF A GOOD SKIP INDALO INVITATION RINKS Carolyn Micklefield 2018 CAA HONG KONG PAIRS Vic Parsons NATIONAL VETERANS MOUNTAIN SPORTS WALK BACK TO BASICS Ruth Compton
FITNESS AND WALKING FOOTBALL
ALBC DRAWN TRIPLES
LÍNEA DIRECTA ANDALUCIANS
INDALO BOWLING CLUB LADIES PAIRS
FEDDI SPANISH BASKETBALL
ODE TO THE WINTER LEAGUE
ROSE SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT
NATIONAL VETERANS SPORTS FEDERATION
BACK TO BASICS WITH RUTH COMPTON
ON THE COVER: Sierra Nevada is located just a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean coast yet it has a season that typically lasts from November to May
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Affordable skiing that gives you more The Sierra Nevada An international reference point for skiers and tourists alike. Located in the heart of the Penibético system, the southernmost of the three systems of mountain ranges of the Baetic, in the southern Iberian Peninsula, in the municipality of Monachil (Granada), the Sierra Nevada is the southernmost ski resort in Europe and home to the highest peaks in the Iberian Peninsula (Veleta at 3,394 m and Mulhacén at 3,478 m), all just 100 Km from the Mediterranean sea and the Costa Tropical. It has a total of 115,6 skiable kilometres on 120 marked pistes, the quality of the snow, the exceptional treatment of the slopes and the complementary leisure offer make the Sierra Nevada an international reference point and a must for both the modern skier and tourists of the 21st century. Sun and Snow are assured in this emblematic environmental paradise which was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1986, and which
acquired National Park status in 1989. Snow and Sun, Beach and Mountain, Sport and Leisure, Art and Gastronomy, Shopping and Relaxation in any one of a number of high quality Spa’s, Sierra Nevada offers you the perfect experience, and absolute paradise for snow lovers. It is the main Ski Resort in southern Europe, where more sunny days per year can be enjoyed, and the perfect place in which to practice all winter sports. The quality of its facilities and services, together with its lively atmosphere, make the resort a first rate gathering point for all snow lovers. Don’t miss out the wide offer of snow sports and activities which you can practice during the day, while at night fun is also guaranteed: night-skiing, tapas and drinks alongside the slopes, restaurants, discos, etc. Light, warmth. Feel the South. Enjoy snow and much more…
Sierra Nevada focuses its developments for the new winter season in a line similar to those of the last year, supporting the family skiing, and strengthening the youth sports scene at Superparque Sulayr, which has now established itself as a freestyle area in the Sierra Nevada after expansion with the introduction of a number of new elements aimed at covering the different user levels as well as many new disciplines of snow (snowboarding and freestyle).
The ski season always depends on the climate conditions that year, but the resort usually opens in Early December, the last weekend in November or first in December depending on how the year falls, and closes in April, or May if the temperature allows for the use of snow cannons. Precautions and recommendations Firstly, get information regarding piste, weather and snow conditions. You should be aware of regulations for using facilities at the resort. You should respect queues and wait in the designated areas. You must pay attention to the explanations, suggestions and requirements of resort staff, who wear corresponding uniforms or identification. You must also respect all on-piste warnings and information. Remember that ski passes are non-transferable, and do not ski off-piste or at the piste edge to avoid entering in prohibited or dangerous areas. If you are skiing or snowboarding for the first time, get an instructor to show you the basics and don't forget to wear a helmet. It is also a good idea to hire your equipment the first time, before making the full investment. Above all, know your limits and choose the most appropriate piste for your level. Necessary equipment The equipment you will need depends on the level and discipline to be practised, although the basic elements for skiing are boots, skis (short ones for beginners), bindings and poles. If you are snowboarding, simply exchange the skis for a snowboard. As far as clothing and accessories are concerned, you should use synthetic, breathable undergarments, fleece, ski suit, waterproof/breathable trousers and anorak, suitable sunglasses for skiing. Lastly, don't forget your skin: high-factor sun cream and lip protection.
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“Avoiding Extinction” merican Psychologist Spencer Johnson is probably best known for co-writing “The One Minute Manager” in 1981. In 1998, he wrote another book about coping with change called “Who moved my cheese”. I won’t tell the whole story here, but Johnson's message is instead of seeing change as the end of something, we must learn to see it as a beginning. He also said: “If you do not change you can become extinct”.
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In this article I want to focus on some simple actions that all British expatriates living in Spain should take to remove some of the risks associated with Brexit and ensure that their continued life in the sun will not become extinct. So, what will change and how can you ensure that you have done everything possible to cope with these changes to start this new “Beginning” as smoothly and comfortably as possible?
Close family members (spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, dependent children and grandchildren, and dependent parents and grandparents) of UK nationals covered by the agreement will be able to join those UK nationals in their Member State of residence. Close family members will enjoy the same rights by virtue of their relationship, where the relationship existed on 31 December 2020.” The most important action to take is to ensure that you are “lawfully residing” in Spain and fully compliant regarding your legal obligations. In simple terms, this means you need to pay your taxes in Spain and make a declaration of any assets held out with Spain (Modelo 720). Spain will classify you as a resident if: You live in Spain for more than 183 days per calendar year (temporary absences ignored) Your nucleus or base of economic interests is in Spain Your dependent spouse or children are resident in Spain Advice Point One: Make sure your residency status is correct, that you are “lawfully residing” in Spain and that you are compliant with your legal obligations so there is no reason for the Spanish authorities to deny your continued happiness in Spain. Quentin Sellar
“The Four Freedoms” Currently we can live in Spain and are entitled to all the services and benefits that are provided by “The Four Freedoms”: Capital Persons
For those of you that haven’t yet started taking your occupational or personal pension then I would strongly recommend that you research your options as to whether you leave it in the UK or transfer it to a ROPS(Q), which is an Overseas Pension Scheme that is recognised as Qualifying by HMRC. This may not be suitable for everybody, but we can review your options and advise you on the best action to take.
By transferring your pension out of the UK, you immediately remove any future risk of UK pension legislation changes and any risk to being able to access your pension if the problems recognised by the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer happen. Exchange Rate Risk
Contact me to arrange a meeting to discuss your current financial situation and I can explain your options regarding ensuring your savings, investments and pensions are structured in the most tax effective way and removed from any future Brexit risk.
Freedom of Persons
Following the agreement on the Implementation Period, all UK nationals lawfully residing in another EU Member State on 31 December 2020 will be covered by the citizens’ rights agreement.
Pensions
Advice Point Two:
When the UK leaves the EU, we may lose these freedoms. I want to focus on two; “Capital and Persons” because there is action you can take now that will remove all or at least most of the potential risks in those areas.
“The citizens’ rights agreement reached in December 2017 provides a level of certainty to UK nationals in the EU and their families. It will allow UK nationals in the EU to continue living their lives broadly as they do now.
We have solutions that are fully compliant in Spain and therefore provide a much more tax effective opportunity.
If you want to remove any future exchange rate risk, then we can create portfolios in Euros.
Services
The following statement is taken from www.gov.uk/guidance/advice-for-british-nationalstravelling-and-living-in-europe#staying-up-to-date on 26th October 2018:
It is important to understand that the Spanish tax authorities don’t recognise the typical UK tax effective savings and investment structures such as Bonds, ISA’s and Premium Bonds. In Spain any growth or winnings in the case of Premium Bonds, is taxable annually. Trusts are also treated very differently and whilst as a UK resident were very tax effective, as a resident of Spain they can become extremely expensive to either the trustees or the beneficiaries.
We have also seen some large fluctuations in the £ : e exchange rate since the Brexit vote and it is very difficult to get a consistent view on the future position.
Goods
The Office of National Statistics and the Instituto Nacional de Estadistica claim that in 2016 there were more than 296,000 British people officially registered as living in Spain and of this number, 108,433 are in receipt of a UK state pension.
Savings and Investments
Summary Freedom of Capital This allows you to easily move money between the UK and Spain and vice versa without limitation. However, in a recently well publicised letter to the chair of the Treasury Committee, Nicky Morgan, Phillip Hammond stated: “With respect to financial services, the Government is alive to the risk that the UK’s withdrawal could in some cases create legal uncertainties as to the status of existing cross-border insurance, pension and other financial services contracts sold under passporting arrangements.” The term ‘legal uncertainties’ implies such arrangements could be rendered effectively illegal, potentially creating huge problems for policyholders and providers. So, what can you do? There are two areas where we can support you.
We are going through a great period of great uncertainty and whilst we are constantly reading and hearing comforting words from both Spanish and UK politicians, it is not clear how things will look when the UK eventually leaves the EU. However, as you will have read in the above article there are some actions you can take now to mitigate future risk. My contact details are below and if anybody would like to discuss their options then please do not hesitate to contact me. Quentin Sellar, International IFA, Blacktower Financial Management (International) Ltd Mobile: 0034 679 018 284 Email: quentin.sellar@blacktowerfm.com
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“He's Running,Ref!” “He's running, ref!” Not exactly the kind of complaint you expect to have lodged against you as a 65 year old retiree. After relocating to Spain from the UK nearly 4 years ago however, it’s one that I am now hearing quite frequently. The meaning behind this madness? It can be explained in two words: Walking Football. Founded in the UK, walking football has quickly become popular in Spain, with our local area now having four teams, three of which are expat, and one Spanish. These are FC Los Amigos, Lubrin, Alforquia, and San Juan. I myself belong to FC Los Amigos, and we play at AD Los Gallardos Football Ground. Before moving to Spain, I was a professional photographer for a Premier League football club in the UK. Often I would see goal opportunities ‘go begging’, and would think to myself, “I could have scored that, even at my age.” Of course it’s easy to say such things long after hanging up your boots, as you don’t expect to ever kick a ball again, let alone play competitively. So to be playing again some years later - albeit at a much slower pace - has provided an unexpected, yet wonderful opportunity to start practicing that Cruyff turn again, and see whether my shooting boots are in fact on par with my keen eye for goal. The jury is still out! Nonetheless, walking football is a form of fitness that is ideal for anyone who isn’t as mobile as they once were. With a strictly no physical contact rule, there is less chance of injury, and this allows for a game focused mainly on teamwork. Other rules to help eliminate injuries include no over head height, no heading, and of course, no running (As a old fashioned outside right in my playing days, speed was always my greatest asset, so being unable to run presents a problem!)
By Malcolm Armstrong. The game is played on an artificial 3G surface, meaning the ball moves very quickly, and that passing needs to be accurate. It can be very tempting to run to gain an advantage, especially when the ball gets away from you. To eradicate this problem in competitive games, there are to two referees; one on the pitch controlling the play, and one on the sideline specifically watching for players running off the ball to gain an advantage. As well as the health and fitness benefits provided by walking football, the social side of belonging to a club has many benefits, such as the opportunity to make friends with other expats in the area. It’s also a great way to meet new people if you’ve just moved to the country. There are also social evenings held regularly, such as dinners, quiz nights and charity events. At FC Los Amigos we very grateful for out club sponsor Calida Homes from Arboleas, who have kindly paid for much of our equipment including kits, training bibs and balls, as well as helping us to purchase our own Defibrillator. We are also very fortunate to have acquired a playing member who is a qualified personal trainer, His techniques and training methods have proved invaluable,with much higher fitness levels and far fewer
injuries. If you would like more information regarding “Walking Football” please visit our website at www.fclosamigos.com or go to our Facebook page, FC Los Amigos Walking Football Team.
Str ong finish to ALBC Dr a wn Trips
Winners Sylvia Pritchard, Tony Lear and Joyce Sheard
During very windy but warm weather the ALBC Drawn Triples commenced with the Preliminary round in the afternoon of 8th and quarter finals on Friday afternoon of 9th with the semis on Saturday afternoon 10th finishing off with the Final on Sunday morning of 11th March. There were moderate entries with thirtysix members making twelve teams taking part. This year using the combined handicaps in drawn competitions of team members proved a very good leveller. The winners were the strong team of Sylvia Pritchard. Tony Lear and Joyce Sheard against another equally good triple, Bryan Thompson, John Ohara and Colin Wright To reach the final, Sylvia’s team beat Mike Duffield, Joan Parsons and Jette Kress. In the other semi, Bryan’s team were successful over John Fitzgerald, Graham Patrick and Pat Deacon. The Final was as expected a classic of exciting and quality bowling. Bryan’s team had to give Sylvia and team seven handicap shots.No one would bet on who would win. Fortunately, although it was windy it was nothing like the previ-
ous days. Nip and tuck for the first eight ends with Bryan’s team ahead by two shots 14-12. Sylvia and team put more pressure on the game going ahead by four shots on the twelfth end 19-15. Bryan and team scored seven shots on the next two ends for them to regain the lead at 2219. The game appeared to be very balanced and the support were now sitting on the edge of their chairs thinking this could mean that Bryan’s team were on their way. However, Sylvia ‘s team drummed up another level of quality bowls scoring eight shots on the last four ends winning the Drawn Triples Championship. John Fitzgerald, our Vice-Captain, thanked the players who had taken part in this competition together with all the spectators who had come to watch and Tony Lear for running the competition, Bryan Hughes for keeping the green maintained throughout the competition. He then presented the trophy to the winners. By Vic Parsons
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IBC 2018 Ladies Pairs
By Gillian Atkinson
After a tough game against Chris Ivin and Linda Lester in the semi-finals Jenny Thompson & Gill Atkinson went on to the final to play Angela Atkinson and Babs Davies who beat Jan Dando and Mo Frith in the other semi-final. The final was scheduled to be played on 25th April but due to bad weather and Angela being in the UK, it was postponed and eventually played on Thursday 18th October. Angela and Babs led from the start and at one time looked as though it was all over at 13 v 7 up after 11 ends. But Jenny and Gill had other ideas and knuckled down to make a real fight of it and never allowed Angela & Babs another shot, coming back to win 18 v 13.
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LEVANTE SPORT TRIVIA QUIZ
C RY P T I C
1. Who were the first two World Heavyweight Boxing Champions in the late 19th century? 2. Based on the number of Major Championships won (Masters, U.S. Open, The Open, PGA), who is the most successful golfer ever from outside the USA? 3. Since the Open era in tennis, which six men have reached the singles final of the US Open the most times? One point for each correct answer. 4. Which biennial sporting event was postponed in 2001 following the September 11th terrorist attack on New York? 5. Where were the US Open tennis championships held between 1924 and 1977? 6. The name of which Olympic host city translated means 'Northern Capital'? 7. Which male tennis player lost four US Open singles finals in 1976, 78, 80 and 81? 8. In September 2010, former steelworker Philippe Croizon swam the English Channel, completing the challenge in just less than 14 hours. The record at that time stood at 6 hours, 57 minutes and 50 seconds, so why was Croizon's crossing so amazing? 9. Due to superstition, what didn't Bjorn Borg do at Wimbledon? 10. The first official international cricket match was held in 1844 between two countries not known for their cricketing history or prowess. Can you name the two countries? One point for each correct answer. 11. Who was the only heavyweight champion to finish his boxing career with a perfect record? (49 wins-0 defeats) 12. Goleo, Spheriks, Ciao, Naranjito and Tip & Tap were all examples of what? 13. Which national team introduced 'Total Football' at the 1974 FIFA World Cup in Germany? 14. Which Dutch footballer earned the nickname 'Llama' after spitting on the West German striker Rudi Völler during a 1990 FIFA World Cup game? 15. Which Cameroonian footballer is the only African to have played in four FIFA World Cups? a. Nwankwo Kanu, b. Roger Milla, c. Aaron Mokoena, d. Rigobert Song 16. Which kind of ball follows the US President everywhere he goes? 17. In 2011, a Formula 1 race will be/was held in which country for the first time? a. India, b. Mexico, c. Ireland, d. Japan 18. Which male tennis player lost a record 4 US Open singles finals in 1976, 1978, 1980 and 1981? 19. Which three lefties have won the most Grand Slam singles titles in mens tennis? 20. The fastest serve in mens tennis (155 mph or 249.5 km/h) belongs to which man?
ACROSS . 1. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 15. 18. 20. 22. 23. 24.
They provide the spirit of progress (6,5) I got into bed in an obstinate mood (7) Many rows of birds (5) I go round an Italian city (5) Time of day for smoothing things out (7) A very loud fish creates a disturbance (6) Somehow my rise doesn’t bring happiness (6) One of rank, perhaps (4-3) Declines in standards (5) The way to defeat the East (5) A cross in Italy shows where a composer is buried (7) Gambler’s faux pas? (7,4)
DOWN 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 14. 16. 17. 19. 21.
Agree to be keen (5) Tour round and round the building (7) It is bound to become a trading record (6) Pawnbroker, relatively speaking (5) My word (7) Yet it might be something in concrete (8,3) An unfair comparison (2,4,2,3) A firmly established sports meeting? (7) Swarms over nests if disturbed (7) Small ruler from Borneo (6) Many remaining split (5) It might be proof of convenient absence (5)
SOLUTION AND QUIZ ANSWERS ON PAGE 38
Mojacar plays host to FEDDI 2018
ojácar recently played host to the ‘FEDDI 2018’ Spanish Basketball Championship, especially for people with learning disabilities. The competition attracted 26 teams from 9 different autonomous communities. The event was organized by the Spanish Sports Federation for People with Intellectual Disabilities, FEDDI, in collaboration with both Mojácar and Garrucha Councils, the Carriles Foundation, Almería Provincial Council, the Sports Council, the ONCE Foundation, Liga 4Sports and the Spanish Paralympic Committee, as well as several national companies. Just under 300 male and female participants,
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spread across six categories, battled their way through the competition, following all the Spanish Basketball and FEDDI regulations. With a Championship at stake in each category, the finals were very tight, with the Almería women’s team, Los Carriles, finishing as Spanish runner-up. Presentations were made at the closing ceremony by the respective Sports Councillors for Mojácar and Garrucha, Ana Garcia and Juan Pedro Molina with Championship medals presented to all the players who came in the first three in each category, as well as team trophies and momentos for all participants. The level of participation amongst the young people from the region was very impressive,
packing out the local sports pavilion throughout the games and enthusiastically supporting every basket, opponent or not, with resounding applause and encouragement. The FEDDI Sports Spanish Federation and team representatives were very keen to show their appreciation for all the work and superb organisation done by Mojácar and Garrucha Councils and Los Carriles Foundation in assisting the players and families who attended the games. Mojácar Council, as first time hosts of this important national event, provided all medical logistics with essential stand by staff and full ambulance support, in addition to very welcome refreshments.
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Ode to the Winter Triples League
By David Upton
It’s good to enjoy the summer months of bowls,
And then there’s the Cougars and the Musketeers,
Enjoying the warm climate and the sun’s constant rays,
There are Rovers and Panthers and even some Vikings,
When each worry and frustration and tension unrolls,
Which team will play best without showing any fears?
As we roll up our bowls on hot, sunny days.
And which team will be best at supersonic strikings?
We’ve enjoyed all our bowls through the summertime,
Not forgetting the rest like Phoenix and the Spitfires,
Away from life’s troubles and all political fears,
Will their bowls seek out the jack like direct guided missiles?
Valuing good friendships and our climate sublime,
We’ll soon begin to see who are this year’s high-fliers,
Away from the Remainers and the Brexiteers!
But whatever happens we’ll all enjoy lots of smiles.
We’ve enjoyed summer roll-ups on our own green patch,
No matter whether you win or lose this is a very happy lifestyle,
Just relaxing to the drone of butterfly wings,
Much better than playing football with it’s boring lack of goals!
Enjoying the friendly conversations after each match,
When playing bowls you’ll forget all your worries for a while,
And enjoying the friendly glory that each victory brings.
Much better than playing golf with it’s boring eighteen holes!
Now it’s that exciting time of the year again,
Sometimes you play the perfect match like a clinical technician,
The fun and competition of the Winter Triples League,
Sometimes you lose and have to take it squarely on the chin,
With each club now starting their annual campaign,
Some days you feel you need an appointment with the local optician,
Full of fun, intrigue and quite a lot of fatigue.
And you feel like throwing your set of bowls in the nearest rubbish bin.
We’ve forgotten the summer heat that ruled all our lives,
It’s lovely to have ‘away matches’ for all to take part in,
The Winter Leagues will bring us new goals to achieve,
And striving to improve your game is good for the human condition,
The days are now shortening as Autumn arrives,
And you get to play on pretty greens where it’s challenging to win,
A new patchwork of bowling adventures to weave.
And we all benefit so very much from challenge and competition.
There’s Levante and Eagles and even Hurricanes,
May our Winter League allow us our bowling ambitions to fulfil,
There are Siroccos and Ramblers and even some Gunners,
Keep us from conceit as our enjoyment we pursue.
Our clubs stretch from seaside to inland mountain plains,
May our Winter League be full of kind friendship and goodwill,
By Christmas time I wonder who’ll be the main frontrunners?
Not just a time to win at bowls but to share some friendship too!
David Upton (Zurgena Bowls Club)
DAVID UPTON ‘The Bard of Zurgena’ Dave and his wife Pam emigrated to Spain 11 years ago settling in the area of Zurgena. They have just celebrated 52 years of married life. They have a Police Detective Inspector son and a daughter who is a teacher, plus a grand-daughter and two grandsons. David worked in education for 40 years, spending the last 20 years of his career as Head Teacher of a primary school working hard to facilitate all children to reach their personal potential. David has always believed that the main purpose of education is to make people different from each other, not to make all children the same. David was also one of 25 Consultant Leaders for Lancashire who supported (as “critical friends”) schools which needed some help prior to their Ofsted inspections. He has enjoyed writing for most of his life, and retirement has finally
allowed him the time to write his first book of poetry dedicated to life in Spain. He spends his leisure time mountain biking and gardening and is a member of the Bowling Club de Zurgena. Not bad for someone who in the past underwent a triple heart bypass operation following a heart attack. His book entitled, “Emigratory Rhymes for Andalucian Climes” contains over 50 humorous and thought provoking poems, representing a complete antidote to doom and gloom! It captures perfectly all the frustrations and celebrations of emigrating and living in Spain, and represents the perfect gift for family and friends. The inspiration for this book of rhymes derives from David’s personal experiences of Almerian life. His poetry celebrates the unique beauty of the area and the warmth of the local Spanish people: and the resolve and humour demonstrated by those who emigrate from the U.K. and settle here in Almeria. His poetry reflects the many challenges and frustrations of emigration. Since printing, the book has sold over 800 copies (but there are still plenty available). However David has written many new poems since and these are now being presented in differing formats, as gifts with a difference for those special people in your life. Over the past few years, David has returned to another of his lifelong passions – water colour painting. He does not profess to be a technically brilliant artist, but he has been inspired by the light and colours which he sees across local landscapes, in the local area, which he continues to strive to capture in his painting. His original watercolours are not for sale, but they have been presented in different formats for you to consider. He offers original sized prints for your personal framing requirements. He offers medium sized prints which are ready framed., and smaller “ Greetings from Almeria” framed prints, which can represent a modestly priced small gift for someone special. Greeting cards/notelets depicting landscapes are also on offer. A new venture for David is to offer a wide series of “Quirky Quotes”, again ready framed to wrap as that special gift with a bit of difference. David often used such “slogans” at the end of the school day with children, in order to promote creative thinking and open minds. He can also offer a personal birthday or framed greetings card service which can include slogans, relevant photographs by you and personal greetings for family or friends He does not yet have a website up and running but can easily be contacted by email:-almeraalbox@yahoo.co.uk By special request David has penned “Ode to Bowls” which you can read on the facing page….. Enjoy,
2018 Dyer Cup and Appleby Vase T
he Dyer Cup and the Appleby Vase, Men Singles commenced on Thursday 1st with preliminary rounds, followed by both men and ladies singles on Friday 2nd reaching the Semis and Final on Sunday 4th February. Men’s Champion, Bryan Thompson
Unfortunately, the early weather was not good, being damp and cold leading up to the Finals day which when although not that hot, was sunny enough to draw about fifty supporters viewing the bowls.
The Club Singles Champion in the Ladies Final, Appleby Vase was Maureen Ohara over Sylvia Pritchard. Bryan Thompson winning over defending champion Ken Richardson in the Club Men’s Single Championship, Dyer Cup. Maureen beat Cath Patrick, Sylvia won over Viv Sykes. Bryan beat John Fitzgerald and Ken Richardson won over Reg Birmingham in the very good semi-finals. Appleby Vase Final – Both finalists played well in the early rounds to reach this stage and on paper a great final was expected. Supporters were not disappointed. . Maureen put the early pressure on, but Sylvia was in no mood let this continue. Scores level on fifteenth, twentieth and twenty-third end respectively at 12-12,16-16 and 19-19. Although the quality of play throughout from both players was excellent, the next two ends were Maureen’s taking the championship. Dyer Cup Final – This was going to be a tough game for both players. Bryan went well for eight ends leading comfortably 10-3. Ken then battled well to level the scores on the fourteenth end, 12-12. Unfortunately for Ken, Bryan wasn’t going to allow himself to relax, playing excellent bowls to win, taking a welldeserved championship. All in all, the four days went well, with the excellent standard of play by all. Reg
Ladies Champion, Maureen O’Hara
Birmingham, our Captain, thanked everyone who had played and supported the past days, Tony Lear for running the competition, the markers who without the competition couldn’t take place, John Fitzgerald who did a grand job caring for the carpet despite bad weather conditions and finally Colin Wright for umpiring the final. Reg then presented the trophies and photographs were taken www.bowlingalmeria.com
By Vic Parsons
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WHAT GOES INTO THE MAKING OF A GOOD SKIP
Good skips are not born and experience is one of the first attributes needed for success. Experience of playing in every position is essential and watching and learning from the skips you play for is part of that experience. An aspiring skip must have the technical ability to play every shot with confidence, be that draw, trail, 'chap and lie' or drive. Before he takes his players on the green, he should also know the abilities of each of them. To build a head, see dangers, counter opponent's strategies and see scoring
opportunities, a skip must be a master tactician. He must be vigilant and note every bowl played by both teams to identify any opposition weaknesses. A skip must be a good communicator and able to give clear verbal and signed instructions in an able manner. To be inspiring, a skip should be personable and listen, encourage and sympathise with his players in a friendly way, consulting them when appropriate, but he should also give firm and clear instructions, making brave decisions when he has to. To deal with that inevitable wobbly wood or wrong bias, he also needs a sense of humour.
By Carolyn Micklefield
Success for local clubs at Indalo Invitation Rinks 2018 bowlers from England, Wales and seven different clubs throughout the Andalucian Region competed in this very popular four day competition at Indalo Bowling Club. Many players return year after year to play and meet up again with old friends and rivals.
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This event is played in four groups of 8 teams on a round robin basis, with the four group winners then progressing to contest the semi-finals. Because of the heavy rain
that fell over the weekend a day and half of bowling was lost but luckily the weather improved which enabled the competition to be completed. The final was competed between the team from Indalo of Gerard Donck, Keith Harvey, Linda Harvey and Carolyn Micklefield winning a very competitive match against the experienced mixed team of Dennis Leigh, Chris Ivin, Sheila Allen and Mark Naylor, 13 shots to 10. The third and fourth place play off was another very competitive match between
the team from Bonalba of Roli Bell, Dennis and Chris Wright and Eve Bell and the Indalo team of Richard Swaine, David Scholfield, Chris Parkinson and Lois Swaine with Richard’s team coming out the winners 17 shots to 13.
wonderful catering throughout the weekend was supplied by Daisy and her team of ladies who served up a wonderful selection of food every day and to Debbie Colquhoun and her faithful helpers for running a very busy bar.
The Trophy was present by the sponsors of the competition, Collyfer Funeral Plans.
All visiting teams thoroughly enjoyed the competition and many have left entries for next year.
Staging a competition of this magnitude needs many volunteers from the host club and many thanks must go to John Colquhoun the Competition Secretary. The
Winners: Gerard Donck, Carolyn Micklefield, Linda and Keith Harvey with the finalists Sheila Allan, Chris Ivin, Mark Naylor and Dennis Leigh.
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2018 CAA Hong Kong Pairs Finals Day The Finals of the CAA Hong Kong Pairs took place at Almeria Lawn Bowls Club on Friday 8th June, Ian Jackson presenting the winners trophy to John Fitzgerald & Chris Ewer
sixteen pairs entered and were drawn into two groups, each playing seven games over eighteen ends. The finalists were the top pair in A and B group and the best runners up in A and B group to play for third and fourth place Group A was won by Almeria pair, John Fitzgerald and Chris Ewer with the pair from Zurgena B.C, Keith Porter and Adrian Davies runner up. Group B was won by another Almeria pair, John and Linda Burgess with Colin Rowling and Brian Firth from Cabrera B.C. coming in as runners up. In the Final John Fitzgerald and Chris Ewer started strongly and did not allow John and Linda Burgess time to settle, although playing well, they conceded on the seventeenth end The Runners up competition was a little closer with Keith Porter and Adrian Davies some of our new bowlers from our latest club going ahead on the eighth end 8-3, then the more experienced pair from Cabrera, Colin Rowling and Brian Firth hit back on the next two ends scoring 2 and 4 shots going ahead 9-8. Keith and Adrian levelled on the next end and then continued to pressurise Colin and Brian winning comfortable 19-12. On completion, the Delegada thanked the club for hosting the final, Ian Jackson, one of our new Umpires, for officiating and as the coordinator of the competition for running it with great efficiency. Ian as the coordinator then presented the trophy to the winners John Fitzgerald and Chris Ewer of ALBC.
By Vic Parsons
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Mojácar
ns a r e t e V l a n io t a N s t s ho get h t 5 4 n io t a r e d e F s t r Mountain Spo together
Mojácar recently turned into the HQ for the National Veteran Mountaineers 45th gathering, with around 600 members descending on the town from all over Spain. This massive annual meeting is organized by the Spanish Federation of Mountain Sports and Climbing, FEDME, along with the Andalucían Mountaineering Federation, FAM. The event was put together by its committee of Veterans together with the Club Excursionista Montenegro, in collaboration with Almería’s Provincial Council and the local Councils of Mojácar, Bédar, Cuevas del Almanzora, Pulpí, Sorbas and Níjar. Among the activities programmed by the organization at different locations for these over 40 year old affiliated mountaineers, the Mena de Mojácar route attracted the highest number of participants out of all the suggested activities. Over 200 people, accompanied by the local Councillor for Sports, Ana García, walked along the path that makes up one of the most popular trails in Mojácar.
The Sendero de la Mena passes through an old section between Mojácar and Carboneras, in front of the hills that make up the Sierra Cabrera as they reach down to the Mediterranean. Along the way, the group had the chance to find out about the actual route, which combines spectacular views with evidence of old mining days at various points, giving a sample of the local touristic sights and cultural heritage on offer. To make sure the day went as smoothly as possible, Mojácar Council arranged for several Civil Protection members to accompany the walkers throughout the journey, as well as providing refreshments. Although the reunion was officially set at three days, many of the participants extended their visit in Mojácar in order to fully take in the town´s many attractions.
Looking forward to Christmas with the Rose Singers T he Rose Singers are a choir of 12 – 15 women singing various types of music including classical, pop and jazz arranged for women’s voices. Formed in Mojacar in 2002, the choir held its first performance in March 2003 and from then on has continually entertained audiences 4 – 5 times per year. Each concert raises funds for local charities through raffles in which our audiences generously support. We are holding our muchanticipated Christmas concert on December 18 at 7:30 pm at Miraflores, Camping Los Gallardos. Our Christmas concert and the raffle will
both be held in support of ASADIS, a program assisting disabled children in Los Gallardos.
at Dessert Springs on December 23 and are looking forward to contributing to their Christmas event.
We have been invited to sing
We encourage everyone to
come to our concerts, not only to be entertained, but to help us raise funds for our local well-deserving charities. We hope to see you there!
Back to Basics
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Lawn Bowling is for From time to time all bowlers, no matter how experienced, have games they wish they had never started or wonder if, perhaps, it’s a good time to embrace the game of tiddly-winks !. 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, two-thirds 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.) THE "KISS" THEORY KEEPING IT STRAIGHT AND SIMPLE 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. The best way to do this is to keep your delivery as straight and simple as possible. Keeping everything straight, including your body and back-swing, along with limiting your
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EVERYONE movement during delivery, will give you the best chance of being able to replicate your delivery, thus keeping consistency very high. 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.
It can help to place the opposite foot half-afoot length in front of the anchor-foot and have the feet slightly apart.
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).
This helps to swing the hip out of the way. Minimal movement
Your arm should swing through freely and smoothly like a pendulum, with no deviations.
Next, bring your opposite foot up alongside your anchor-foot into a comfortable position.
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. 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 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
Keep it straight and simple
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