🟢Blog #18

🎳“The Bias of Life”

If you have ever wondered why bowls have such a hold on people, here is one reason: it is a perfect metaphor for life. You line yourself up, set your sights straight down the green… and then the bias gently nudges your best-laid plans off course. Sound familiar?

This week offered some prime examples of “life’s bias” in action. One wayward bowl, delivered with all the grace of a startled flamingo, somehow curled into perfection — though whether it was wind or a mischievous seagull lending a hand remains up for debate. Meanwhile, a delicate little toucher nestled against the jack like it had booked a table weeks in advance. Proof, once again, that bowls rewards the bold and the lucky in equal measure.

🧤 Etiquette for New Bowlers

Always applaud a good shot — even when it is your opponent’s. It is part of what makes bowls a gentlemanly (and gentlewomanly) pursuit. That said, if you accidentally clap a wide one from your skip, prepare for a look that could scorch the grass. Timing, as ever, is everything.

📜 History Corner

Legend has it that Sir Francis Drake was playing bowls on Plymouth Hoe in 1588 when news arrived of the Spanish Armada. His famously cool reply?

“Plenty of time to finish the game and beat the Armada, too.”

Whether fact or folklore, it is a reminder that bowls have long been associated with calm under pressure — and perhaps a touch of defiance.

🌅 Closing Ends

As the evenings begin to draw in, there is something magical about bowling at dusk. The green softens, shadows stretch across the rinks, and your opponent’s questionable bias becomes harder to spot — though possible to suspect. It is a time when the game feels more poetic, more personal, and somehow more profound.

You are not just bowling — you're part of something special. So, roll up, take your place, and stay — “On the Jack.”

Norman Deegan, President, Marine Gardens Bowling Club

THIS WEEK ON THE GREEN – Club News and Activities

Weekly Report – Week Ending Sunday, 17th August 2025
Alan Paterson, Press Officer.
This week may not earn a golden chapter in the club’s history books, but it certainly offered its fair share of drama, resilience, and camaraderie.

🎳 Match Round-Up

Friendly vs Norfolk BC

The week began with a friendly against Norfolk BC, where the scoreboard was not exactly kind—just one drawn rink out of five. But what a draw it was! Hats off to Roger Parish, Les Gritton, Liz Baldwin, and Mark Berriman, who staged a remarkable comeback from 20-6 down after 10 ends to finish 22-22. That is the kind of grit we love to see.

WSBL vs Maltravers (Away)

A tough outing at Maltravers saw Marine Gardens fall 3-1 (74-55), with the hosts claiming 8 of the 10 points. Our shining quartet—Trevor Punnett, Graham Ray, Duncan Gayler, and Graham Poole—secured a solid 19-10 win, flying the flag with pride.

Stracey League vs Tarring Priory (Home)

Back on home turf, the Stracey fixture against Tarring Priory mirrored the previous result, with just 2 points salvaged. A reversal, yes—but not without effort.

Brodie League vs Southwick (Home)

The week’s final competitive match was a humbling experience, as Southwick delivered a masterclass across all four rinks, cruising to a 121-30 victory. Credit to their team—they were simply outstanding on the day.

🏆 Jubilee Plate – President vs Captain

In brighter news, the annual President v Captain match for the Jubilee Plate brought smiles and spirited competition. All six rinks were in action, with honours split 3-3. However, the Captain’s team edged ahead with an 83-75 shot advantage to lift the trophy. Special mention to Leon White, Alan Paterson, and Captain Bob Cole for leading the charge.

🎯 Congratulations to Angela Neale for winning the Spider competition, and heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to a memorable day.

Aussie Pairs – Final Standings

The Aussie Pairs competition has wrapped up, and it is official:

•           🐨 Koalas reign supreme with 112.5 points

•           🦆 Platypus team grounded in second with 103.5 points

A cheerful “G’ day” to our top performers: Mark Berriman, Terry Ashley, Colin Markland, Anne Knight, Leon White, Geraldine Whitehead, and John Sadler. You have made the outback proud!

🏖️ Proposed Bowls Tour – September 2026

Destination: Bournemouth Dates: 4th–11th September 2026

Following the success of our 2024 Devon tour, we are delighted to announce that plans are well underway for our next adventure — this time to the sunny shores of Bournemouth!

Graham has already contacted members who previously expressed interest; however, this update is intended for anyone still considering whether to join us. Here is everything you need to know:

🗓️ Key Details

📍 Destination: Bournemouth area

🏨 Accommodation: The 4-star Queens Hotel & Spa, Bournemouth

Indoor pool • Flat-screen TV & satellite channels • Tea/coffee facilities

Walk-in shower, separate toilet, dressing gowns & shower cap

Free high-speed Wi-Fi

💷 Cost: £850 per person: Includes:

7 nights’ bed, breakfast & 3-course evening meal

Return travel from Marine Gardens to Bournemouth

Travel to host clubs, • Green fees, tea & biscuits at host clubs

Gratuities for hotel staff & coach driver

A contingency fund to buffer against budget surprises (fuel prices, government budgets, etc.) — any unused portion will be refunded in September 2026.

🎯 Tour Plan

• 5 matches against local clubs, • 1 free day to explore, relax, or do as you please — likely Tuesday, 8th September

📝 How to Join

If this sounds like your kind of getaway, please speak to Graham Ray, Trevor Punnett, or David Hughes as soon as possible.

To secure your place, we require a £50 non-refundable deposit this autumn.

Payment options:
Bank Transfer: Account Number: 13198203
Sort Code: 60-24-32

                 "£Cheque: Payable to Marine Gardens Bowling Club TO"

You can make further payments at your convenience, with the final balance due by 30th June 2026.

🧳 Final Thought

Whether you are in it for the bowls, the banter, or the Bournemouth breeze — we would love to have you with us.
Do not miss what promises to be another memorable tour!