BY IAN THORPE
From the sport of lawn bowling, there’s lots of news to pass along this week. On the bowling green at Bowen Park, another season of outdoor play is about to get underway…
This month also marks the start of another outdoor lawn bowling season. Entering its 101st year, the Nanaimo Lawn Bowling Club has scheduled its semi-annual general meeting for this Friday, April 19, starting at 6 p.m. at the NLBC clubhouse in Bowen Park. At that time, plans for the upcoming season will be discussed with club members.
President of the club for this year will be Ian Yewer, who takes over from Frances Tester. Tester will remain on the executive as both past president and marketing director. Vice-president is Ann Yewer, treasurer is Barb Berg and club secretary is Theresa van der Goes. Greens director is Larry Rector, Irene Toulouse is membership director, Heather Morrison is games chairperson, Karen Edgeworth heads up canteen and Kathleen Hewitt takes on the head coaching role.
Official opening day for club members will be Sunday, April 21, with a traditional Awakening the Green ceremony at 1 p.m. featuring pipe major Graham Davidson, followed by refreshments and an informal game on the green. The first club competition of the season will be held on April 28, with the Martin Velsen Season Opener Mixed Triples event.
At the start of each season, the NLBC encourages new bowlers to visit the club to learn about the game and try some bowling assisted by club coaches. One such open house has already been held and others are scheduled for Saturday, April 20, as well as April 27, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Bowen Park green. Everyone is welcome and equipment is provided. Just wear comfortable clothing and show up for an opportunity to try a very welcoming and fun sport.
Whatever your sport, a reminder in closing to play your hardest, play fair, and show good sportsmanship.