26 JANUARY

Whilst most Tea Gardens Men’s Bowling Club players were preoccupied with Australia Day functions, 16 bowlers played in 2 games of 4’s.

The winners on the day received a drink voucher along with a random card draw of the losers.

Those who played said it was an enjoyable game.

29 January

The quarter-final round of the Club Championship Singles was played today with some surprising results.

A very hot northerly wind was certainly a factor in some outcomes.

The current Club Champion, Jeff Baker had a comfortable win against Dave Perry, 31-16.

Club Pairs title holder, Peter Gurney, had too much experience to beat Tony Butler, 31-18.

Barry Goode continues to amaze with a very good win over Geoffrey Muggleton 31-20.

In another upset Ron Berczelly toppled former Club Singles Champion, Denis Ashbridge, 31-25.

30 January

The Club Singles Championship continued today with the semi-final round with thankfully, better playing conditions and on an immaculately prepared, Peter Thornton green.

The Peter Gurney, Jeff Baker clash was a most enjoyable game to watch with Peter always in the game, but Jeff’s conversion rate was first class, and he ran out the winner 31-27 to progress to yet another Championship final.

Well, I mentioned that Barry Goode continues to amaze and in his clash with Ron Berczelly, he continued to do just that.

Before converting to a ‘spoonbill’ bowling arm, Barry had developed a vicious cross-body flick which affected his consistency.

The difference has been quite dramatic, and Ron Berczelly found that out today.

Barry never let Ron into the game leading all the way with some precision bowling.

To reach the semi-final, Ron had beaten two club titleholders, so he went into this match as a hot favourite.

Ron mounted a comeback, but the match was never in doubt with Barry winning 31-25.

I am not a Club historian, but I doubt that many Clubs could boast an 82-year-old making the final of their Clubs Singles Championship.

Congratulations Barry.

The final will be played next Sunday.

Can Barry do it again?

In other news.

Nominations are being called for the Club Major Pairs and I would reiterate that inexperienced players should nominate for this Championship as it will give them wonderful experience.

There will be a visit from the Northmead bowlers on Saturday and Sunday, 12-13 February.

The Club will need to field 7 teams of 3 to play for a trophy.

Players must be able to commit to play on both Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning.

So far, 3 teams have been nominated so get your teams together for a great weekend of bowls.

There are no green fees for this event and Saturday night dinner and Sunday lunch can be had for $30.00.

 

By John SLATER