HISTORY CORNER: – How Long Have We Been Rolling These Things?

Unbelievably, lawn bowls is one of the oldest sports in the world. Records date back to 13th-century England, and a version was played in ancient Egypt — although those bowlers did not have club shirts, measuring tapes or mid-end digestive biscuits.

King Edward III banned the game in 1361 because his archers were spending too much time on the green and not enough preparing for war. He had never faced down a tricky head with the match on the line.

ETIQUETTE MATTERRS: – A Polite Guide to the Green

For our newer members: the unwritten rules of bowls are just as important as the written ones. Here are a few to keep in your locker:

• Do not move or chat behind the mat when someone is about to bowl.

• Compliment good shots — even from the opposition.

• Never celebrate a wick too loudly. (Unless it was spectacular. Then carry on.)

• Shake hands before and after. Bonus points for remembering names.

• If you are measuring, do not argue. Just breathe, measure, and remeasure

Bowls is a game of centimetres, character, and calm — and if you are going to lose, lose with a smile and the promise of tea and biscuits.

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED:

Q: Why do some bowlers carry chalk?

A: To mark touchers — bowls that have kissed the jack. They are like royalty. You treat them with respect.

Q: Is it okay to bring a lucky charm?

A: As long as it does not trip up your teammates, go for it. Just no glitter.

HEARD ON THE GREEN:
“It’s a game of inches, and I have used every one of mine”
“He has drawn another toucher, that’s three, someone check his bowls for magnets.”
“Lovely line, pity about the length. -------

FINAL END:

With another close match in the books and plenty of newcomers joining the ranks, it is a suitable time to remember:

This game is not just about bowls — it is about respect, rhythm, and the occasional ridiculous wick.
Welcome to the sport where history meets humour.
And as always, stay “On the Jack.”

THIS WEEK ON THE GREEN – Club News and Activities.
Weekly Report – Week Ending Sunday, 6th July 2025
By Alan Paterson, Press Officer

It is fair to say this past week will not be etched into the club’s annals as a golden chapter. The scorching heat proved a formidable opponent, and our form wilted accordingly.

🌡️ Brodie League Blues
We endured tough outings in the Brodie League, suffering heavy defeats at both Worthing Pavilion—where the lightning-fast greens caught us off guard—and at Southwick. Conditions were challenging, and our opponents capitalised well.

🏠 WSBL: A Glimmer at Home
There was a flicker of improvement in our home WSBL fixture against local rivals Worthing. A hard-fought 18–9 win by the rink of Bob Cole, David Barlow, Perry Cairns, and skip Ivan Godsmark earned us 2 valuable points. A solid effort in front of the home crowd.

🎯 Stracey League: Close but No Cigar
Our sole victory of the week came in the Stracey League away at Lancing, where we triumphed on 3 rinks. Unfortunately, we narrowly lost the overall shot count, 73–67. Top Rink honours went to Anne Knight, Wendy Wilson, Jim Gray, and Duncan Gayler, who mounted a spirited comeback to seal their win.

🎉 Captain vs. Vice-Captain: A Friendly Feud
In brighter news, the much-anticipated Captain vs. Vice-Captain match delivered both drama and delight. Vice-Captain James Albon edged out Captain Bob Cole by just 3 shots, earning himself the week’s bragging rights. The match was played in great spirits, and congratulations go to Graeme Poole, who claimed victory in the Spider.

Here’s to cooler weather and warmer results in the week ahead!