Five years ago, when a new short mat-bowling club was being formed in a nearby village, I was asked if I was interested in joining. Am I ready for this, I thought? I'm not retired yet, and surely bowls is for older people.
However, I decided to give it a try. I bought a pair of bowling shoes for £10 in a sale and a set of bowls from a friend for £30. Well, the game grew on me and the following year I was invited along to Hemyock bowling club for the summer season. There I found a very friendly lot of natives and have been enjoying the full game of bowls ever since.
How wrong my initial impressions were! It is a game of skill, sometimes a little luck, is competitive, mildly energetic and requires stamina. It is suitable for all ages, and a game that husband and wife or partner can enjoy together. You are also bound to make lots of new friends.
At Hemyock we welcome new members and coaching is always available to assist newcomers to the game. All you need to give it a try is a pair of flatheeled shoes and comfortable clothing. There are sets of bowls at the club for your use.
If you become a member we have a regular Tuesday evening club night where we run an umbrella competition throughout the season, and there are 'friendly' matches with other clubs most weekends. Then as you progress there are many different club competitions in which to participate and also league matches for men and women. This year I have been bold and even entered some County competitions. I hope that I will continue to enjoy bowling for many years to come. Incidentally, I still use the same set of bowls that I started with, but I have just bought myself a new pair of, very sporty trainer type, bowling shoes. Will my game now improve, I wonder?
If you are interested in finding out more, or just want to have a go, please get in touch with club coach Martin Dear on 01823 680509
Hemyock - A Village on the Blackdown Hills
http://www.hemyock.org/article.php/20070723141927865