Bowls: Costa del Sol Annual Triples

Wednesday, 18 January 2012 15:07

Written by Editor

The format for the competition was different from that in previous years with the main event (sponsored by Ibex) run as a knockout competition and the first round losers going into a "Plate" knockout competition (sponsored by Miraflores Bowls Club). The event opened on Monday morning to a continuation of the glorious weather we have seen for the last couple of months, but the clouds arrived on Tuesday morning resulting in much cooler conditions for play for the remaining two days, but we were still fortunate that rain held off.  Wednesday saw the semi-finals of both competitions played out in the morning. Most of these were close fought matches with the triples of Alex Hanton, James Monteith  Alan Turner of Los Amigos BC and Mike Detheridge, Brian Todd & Lennie Dineen of Benalmadena BC winning through in the main competition. The plate competition saw Roberto Wright, Mike Glitheroe and Alan Bloom of Mijas BC and Dudley Calder, Fred Stevenson & Mike Kinane of Miraflores LBC winning their matches to qualify for the final.

The finals were played in warmer conditions in the afternoon. And in the main event spectators witnessed a demonstration of superb bowling.  Despite a late fightback Alex Turner’s team conceded at 21-10 after 16 ends. In the Plate final, Dudley's triple started strongly, but Roberto's team fought back and the scores were level at 10-10 after 11 ends. The match progressed with first one team, then the other taking the initiative, Dudley in particular playing a series of saving shots to keep his team in the match. This was particularly demonstrated in the 13th end, when he stood on the mat to bowl his first bowl the team were seven shots down. He then proceeded to draw his 3 woods onto the jack to win three shots. The drama was not over yet though as the Mijas trio won the last end to tie the match 16-16. An extra end was required which saw the Miraflores triple winning through to loud cheers from the crowd of supporters. Rachelle from Ibex Insurance the sponsors of the main event  presented the cash prizes to the finalists of the main event.

Following the presentations Brian Todd from the winning triple said words of thanks to the host club, the umpires, other participants and Carol and Helen for keeping everybody fed and watered throughout. He made special mention of Derek (from the host club) for organising such a highly enjoyable event.

Finally, the next event planned at Miraflores is a "Seniors" Pairs competition (sponsored by Sontec Hearing Centres) which is running from 6th-8th February. Notices should be on display at all clubs but as this is open to all bowlers who meet the qualifying criteria (combined age 150!) entries can be made direct to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 952833702 for more information. The closing date for entries is 1st February.

Report by:  Grant Frost.