The inaugural Pitcher and Le Quesne Open Bowls competition at the Sun Bowls Club took place over the weekend of 31st July/1st August. Based on the Australian Bowls Premier League format, 20 teams of 3 played 3 wood pairs over 2 sets of five ends. To make things more interesting, the third player could be brought on as a substitute during each set so that all team members had a chance to play and were involved. Added to that, each team had the opportunity to nominate a ‘powerplay’ end whereby the shots scored – if there were any! – were doubled. In the event of a draw after the 2 sets were finished, a one end tie-break was played as 2 wood triples as the decider.
Teams were drawn in to 4 groups of 5 and played initially in a round-robin, with the top 2 teams in each group then progressing to the quarterfinals and the knockout stage.
To add to the atmosphere, music was played across the green during the tournament and this was enjoyed by players and spectators alike.
On the Saturday evening players and their guests enjoyed an excellent BBQ.
Spot prizes were on offer over the weekend, including one for the best team outfit. It was good to see the teams entering in to the spirit of this, as can be seen in the gallery below.
At the presentation ceremony Peter Davis, President of the the Sun Bowls Club, welcomed Paul Battrick MBE, managing director of Pitcher and Le Quesne who generously sponsored the event, and invited him to present the prizes.
The results of the competition were as follows:
The whole weekend was deemed to be a great success and showed the game of bowls in a completely different light. Thanks must go to the organising committee, all of the helpers, all of the players and last but by no means least, the many supporters on both days who added to the atmosphere around the green and who were able to witness and enjoy some high quality bowls being played.
Roll on 2022!!
Sun Bowls Club, Jersey 