Mikkos’ different bowl game.

Never too young!!

What is Bowls?

Bowls or lawn bowls is a sport in which the objective is to roll biased balls so that they stop close to a smaller ball called a “jack” or “kitty”. It is played on a pitch which may be flat (for “flat-green bowls”) or convex or uneven (for “crown-green bowls”). It is normally played outdoors although there are some indoor venues and the surface is either natural grass or artificial surfaces.

Some people see the game of bowls as a game for old people.It could not be further from the truth as I found out for myself. I admit that for years while i was playing football i was under the same opinion.Well I can tell you now that is not the case,because over the last two years I have discovered that there is a lot more life in bowls than people imagine.There is such a wide spectrum of age in both men and women who play the game. You can play the game all year round, on grass in the summer and indoor in winter.

Retired?

When I retired from football i found it very frustrating just watching the game and not been able to participate.The immediate progression for many ex-footballers seems to be golf but I found this very expensive and time consuming, therefore i decided bowls was the more realistic option. Make no mistake, bowls is a very competitive game and also very enjoyable.

I don’t know about you but since I retired i have a busier schedule than when i was working. A diary is a must!!Taking and collecting grandchildren to school or nursery, baby sitting. We all love our families and ready to help in any way we can but I found the break of playing a game of bowls very relaxing and the little exercise helps .

Some of you may not have a busy schedule but have a lot of spare time so by joining a bowls club will help you socialise and make new friends.I have met so many people i have not seen for ages.

Playing times.

The good thing about playing bowls is that you can play almost at any time in the day.

You can take the grandchildren to schoool play bowls then time to go and collect them.There are games during the week or weekends and depending on the competition games take place morning afternoon or evening.

Membership

Most local clubs are looking for new members and membership is approx 1/10th that of golf. A set of bowls is approx the price of one golf club.

Most games take place within your home club. There is very rarely more than say 30 minutes travel time for any away games. Matches last approx 2 and a half to three hours with refreshments afterwards or even a meal.

The social side is very good as i found people very friendly and helpful. There is free training before you become a member and coaching is an ongoing aspect as you progress depending on the level you want to achieve.

I have just completed my second season with Cockfosters Bowls Club and would thoroughly recommend it to anyone interested in taking up bowls. in addition I am enjoying my second season indoor bowling at Bounds Green Bowling club where they have excellent facilities with games taking place whatever the weather.

I am pleased to say that i introduced my brother Laki to both these clubs and he too is having an enjoyable time and he in turn has convinced golfer Kyriakos Tsirpis to take up the game. Another friend is jack Kiriakou an excellent bowler with Arnos Grove Bowling club and I am sure there are others.

If any one is interested they can get in touch with me on 07989 654 304 or email me ; [email protected]

Will be glad to help. Join a bowls club you will not be disappointed.

Mikkos Chrysostomou