LETTER: What the terrific game of bowls is all about
On the Bowling Green with Geoff: More people are joining up to play these days than giving up the game, so that puts the “dying game” argument to bed.
• Geoff Behrent writes:
What has puzzled me over the years is why it is necessary to almost beg people to come and see for themselves what this terrific game of bowls is all about.
Is it because of the stigma of “old man’s marbles” attached to it by those who do not know any better? Is it a total misunderstanding of what the game is about? Is it a lack of physical ability? Outdated dress code putting you off? Exclusivity, the game is only for “snooty” people? Club membership is expensive? The belief that bowls is a “dying game”? Lack of confidence in yourself, scared of visiting a club without knowing anyone there? The need to join as part of a team and not as an individual?
The best reason given to me was when my neighbour recently told me that he had tried his hand at bowls but he just didn’t like the game. Hey, that’s a fair enough reason, isn’t it? But at least he gave it a go before passing judgment! He is, I expect, the exception though. There are so many thousands of people out there who simply stay away and don’t even take the time to have a simple tryout. Even though there is usually a bowling club situated fairly nearby.
So let’s examine the reasons as laid out above. First of all, contrary to popular misunderstanding, bowls is a young person’s game that can be played well into old age. Many retirees can play during the week, which is of course logical, but come the weekend the bowling greens are full of people of both genders, of all ages (ranging from 19 to 90+) and ethnicity enjoying friendly and fun competition. More people are joining up to play these days than giving up the game so that puts the “dying game” argument to bed. The dress code is very relaxed, bowls is mostly played in everyday clothing; the only requirement is that the soles of the shoes should be flat (for the protection of the greens). People even play barefoot! So the ‘exclusivity’ that was the norm in the old days is today just that, a very welcome thing of the Jurassic past. Club membership is open to all! Membership fees are reasonable, green fees low and refreshments realistically priced. And, you don’t have to be super fit to play; general physical ability is all that is needed!
Understandably, people usually don’t want to simply pitch up on their own in a strange environment, especially a bowling club. So what I suggest is that you seek out a bowler known to you and accompany him/ her to a social game and have a look-see for yourself, even if you don’t roll any bowls at all. On the other hand, come along to a club on your own, introduce yourself, watch a game, and share a drink or two with the bowlers after the game. Bowlers are very friendly people and will go out of their way to make you feel warmly welcome. That’s a fact!
See you at a bowling club soon!
