On Saturday, July 29, Rye Bowls Club hosted its annual Open Mixed Triples Tournament sponsored by “The Mermaid Inn”. This year, once again, an unprecedented number of teams, from far and wide, applied to take part in what has become a big event in their bowls calendar. As well as many of our regular participants we were happy to welcome several new teams and, well before the season commenced, we were very proud to have been able to fill all 24 places plus a number of reserve teams.
At 6am Rye Bowls Club members were busy erecting marquees, tents and gazebos in preparation for the day ahead, and were rewarded with “bacon butties” for their efforts. Players received a superb two course lunch, and homemade savouries and cakes were available throughout the day.
All teams were welcomed by The Town Crier, Rex Swain, a long serving member of Rye Bowls Club, and the Club President Wally Collen. Play commenced at 9.30am. The weather during the morning was ideal for bowling with glorious sunshine. Unfortunately, by lunch time the rain clouds had gathered and wet weather gear was needed. Play continued in the rain (Green Bowlers are a hardy bunch) however by mid-afternoon the showers had turned into very heavy rain, prompting an early end to the day’s proceedings. The presentation was held under cover of one of the marquees.
Congratulations go to the winners of this year’s event who were Jean Strange, William Strange, and skip Wendy Preston from Lyminge Bowls Club with 26 points and shot difference of +23.
Runners up were Jeanette Read, Keith Sellens and Skip Paul Trigg from Winchelsea Bowls Club also with 26 points and shot difference of +18.
Third placed team was one of this year’s new entrants Barbara Francis, Ralf Francis and skip Angela Jakes from Ditton Bowls Club with 25 points.
Photo: Margaret Everest