Ditch Drama

The ditch: feared, misunderstood, and occasionally used as a place to hide when the skip asks awkward questions.

It is where dreams go to die… and where bowls go when they misbehave.

But let us get one thing straight: not everything in the ditch is dead.

• A toucher that ends up there still counts.

• A jack in the ditch can turn an end upside down.

• And a well-placed bowl nearby can win you the game.

Touchers & Terrors

Do not forget to chalk that toucher! (Unless you enjoy post-end debates that last longer than the match.)

The clack of bowl-on-bowl before tumbling into the ditch?

That is not defeat – that’s tactical brilliance.

Unless, of course, it was your bowl you knocked in.

Skippers’ Sayings

• “He’s in the ditch again.”

• “Must be visiting relatives down there.”

• “There’s more of our bowls in the ditch than on the rink.”

The ditch is a constant source of banter, bravado, and bruised pride. But remember:

If you are never near the ditch, you are probably playing it too safe.

Ask the Skip: Your Questions Answered

Q: “Is it ever worth aiming near the ditch?”

A: Absolutely. Some of the bravest lines run along the edge.

Just do not overdo it, or you will become a full-time ditch inspector.

Skilled players use the ditch line to tuck behind bowls, pressure the jack,

or land the killer toucher. Risky? Yes. Glorious when it works? Definitely.

Final End

So next time you are hovering near the ditch, chin up – some of the best shots come from the edge.

And if all else fails, remember: Bowls is just controlled chaos in white trousers.

Until next week: Keep your weight measured, your aim honest, and your bowls firmly “On the Jack.”

This week on the Green

Alan Paterson, Press Officer – Club news and activities.

Marine Gardens Continue Winning Streak with Impressive Victories

Marine Gardens' outstanding form continued this week with three well-earned victories—two away and one at home.

The campaign began with a strong home performance against Henfield, where Marine Gardens secured a 3-2 rink victory (92-79). A standout performance saw John Nettleingham, Dave Barlow, and skip Graeme Poole earn Top Rink honours with a commanding 20 -10 win.

The momentum carried forward into a friendly match at East Preston, where Marine Gardens once again triumphed by 3 rinks to 2 (83-71). A determined finish from Gerry Perch, Brian Harrison, and Trevor Punnett sealed Top Rink honours with a 19-10 victory.

The week concluded on a high note with a fiercely contested Stracey Shield league match against Worthing. Marine Gardens emerged victorious, winning 3-1 in rinks (66-54), securing 8 out of the 10 points available. Once again, skip Graeme Poole led the charge, earning Top Rink honours alongside Gerry Perch, John Nettleingham, and Bob Cole with a dominant 22-6 victory.

With these fantastic results, we now focus on our first WSBL fixture at Crablands and our Open Day on Sunday, 25th May, where we look forward to welcoming new and experienced bowlers alike to try the wonderful sport of bowls.