Season Opener

🟢 On the Jack – Season Opener

“Back on the Green Again” Blog #1

There is a certain magic about the start of a new bowls season. The green look suspiciously perfect, and suddenly the clubhouse is alive again with chatter, laughter, and the familiar phrase:
“I’m sure these bowls didn’t used to swing that much…”

Yes, we are back.

After a winter of rest (and a little too much practice lifting teacups rather than bowls), it is time to dust off the kit, stretch those bowling arms, and remind us of which side the bias is on.

🌱 A Fresh Start for Everyone

The beauty of a new season is that it wipes the slate clean. Last year’s narrow defeats? Forgotten. That match where you accidentally bowled the wrong bias? Ancient history (though still discussed at match tea interval).

Whether you are a seasoned skip or someone who’s just joined and is still wondering why the bowl refuses to go straight, this is your moment. Bowls is one of the few sports where experience counts—but enthusiasm counts just as much.

🎯 Back to Basics

For our newer members, here is the simplest truth about bowls:

• Get the line right (that lovely curve we call the bias)

• Get the weight right (not too heavy, not too light—like a perfect cup of tea)

• And aim, always, for the jack

Everything else is just detail… and years of friendly debate.

🤝 Etiquette Reminder (Season Starter Edition)

A quick refresher never hurts:

• Stand still when someone is delivering.

• Keep out of the head unless you are involved.

• Applaud good shots—whoever plays them.

• And enjoy the game.

Because bowls is not about winning ends—it is about enjoying them.

☕ Clubhouse Notes

• Roll-ups are back — all welcome

• New members coaching sessions running on Sunday’s.

• And yes… the kettle is on, and the biscuits are already under threat.

🌟 Looking Ahead

This season promises friendly rivalries, heroic last bowls, the occasional “how did that miss?” moment, and of stories to share.

So, whether you are chasing trophies or just rolling-up, one thing is certain:
it is good to be back.

See you on the jack.

Your Rink side Rambler, Norman Deegan.

THIS WEEK ON THE GREEN – Club News and Activities

🗞️ Marine Gardens Bowling Club Weekly Report

Week Ending Sunday, 26th April 2026
Alan Paterson, Press Officer.
The new season has begun in the best conceivable way for Marine Gardens bowlers, with three full‑house Club Drives, an evening roll‑up, one friendly and one competitive match — all played in glorious spring sunshine that made the greens look at their absolute best.

We were delighted to see new member Pam Duffield make an immediate impact by winning the inaugural Spider competition. A fine way to announce yourself.

On Tuesday, ITV News asked members of Marine Gardens Bowling Club to discuss their top issues ahead of local elections, pothole repairs, town centre redevelopment, and better end-of-life care were among the issues of the players at Marine Gardens Bowling Club.

Our first competitive outing of the season, a Brodie Tray match against Steyning, produced an excellent 3–1 victory. Terry Ashley, Ken Leadbeater and Jim Gray claimed the first Top Rink honours of the year with a convincing 22–12 win. With victories in two further games and only one loss, the overall 71–57 shot margin secured a valuable 8 league points.

The friendly match against Goring Manor proved to be a tight and entertaining affair. Marine Gardens edged it with two wins and two draws. Tim Baldwin, skipping Peter Guy, Liam Clifford and Angela Neale, steered his rink to Top Rink honours with a fine 24–15 win. The overall score of 60–52 reflects just how keenly contested the match was.

With the dry weather arriving early, our watering team has already swung into action. Their efforts should help ensure the green remains responsive and enjoyable as we settle into the season.
The setting at Marine Gardens looked magnificent this week, and long may that continue, our sincere thanks to the Friends of Marine Gardens team for the excellent upkeep of this popular Worthing green space, admired and enjoyed by both residents and visitors to the gardens.

We are also looking forward to welcoming potential new members at our Open Days on 10th and 24th May, running from 11am to 3pm. Please do encourage friends, neighbours, and anyone curious about bowls to come along and “have a go.”