Page 13 - Spring 2016

Page 13:Layout 1 25/05/2016 08:43 Page 1

Jurassic 13

Tournament

Jurassic Bowls held their
first “Trippples” Tournament
of 2016 at Cloakham
Sports Centre, Axminster.
A large number of en-
tries from across Devon,
Dorset and Somerset in-
cluded a range ages from
teens to the retired, all bat-
tling it out within a ten mat
arena.
Many of the bowlers
devoured delicious bacon
butties & coffee produced by Emma & Cloe before being drawn into the random round robin
groups. The timed event found the umpires continuously needing to move speedily up and down
the arena resolving many a close measure. Results produced a number of surprise group win-
ners along with best runners-up progressing into the knockout stages, which featured after the
two lunch breaks. The selection from a choice menu of homemade dishes made by Vicky &
Anne was well received with a full restaurant on both sittings.
The day was supported by representatives from the International Australian manufacturer
“Aero Bowls” and included Jamie Chestney, 4th in world rankings and Natalie Melmore the Com-
monwealth Gold medallist. Between games players and supporters were able to shop at the
huge raffle stall organised and hosted by committee member Bridget. A simultaneous single
ticket raffle saw the latest model bowls bag donated by Aero being avidly sought after.
During the afternoon the standard and intensity of game play increased, with many of the
bowlers remaining from earlier stages to cheer on their respective colleagues. Gradually each
successive round saw many a scalp being taken. Through to the quarter finals were Wonford –
v- Seaton; Oddcombe-v-Sidbury; Beer-v- Willand; Mariners-v-West Hill. All returned high scoring
games leaving the semi-finalists to be Wonford-v-West Hill and Oddcombe-v-Beer: Both Won-
ford (Exeter) and Oddcombe (Yeovil) having raised their games again to march on the final.
Both teams new to Jurassic Tournaments suspended play to recharge with teas & cakes
that had been available throughout the afternoon. Then suitably composed, both teams battled
out the final on Mat One surrounded by a small enthusiastic crowd. “Oohs!” and “Aahs” followed
each end.
What a match it turned out to be. For five ends Wonford led the way and built up a margin
thought to be beyond reach. Oddcombe, determined not to let go, played two very canny ends
to draw level. But Wonford were having none of this revival and, raising the level of play yet
again skip Marie Tolman found a superb gathering bowl and followed that by a single shot on
the last end to win comfortably the Trippples trophy.
Caroline Pavey organiser and match secretary congratulated all the players and thanked
everyone for participating in such a friendly competitive spirit. Picture of finalists shown below.
The next open tournament is the TwoPairFours over a twelve mat arena will be held on
Sunday 3rd April 2016 at Cloakham. An intriguing event where play is between pairs who are
‘linked’ to another pair of their choosing. Scoring is recorded over both Pairs and Fours with win-
ners in both categories. Further information of Jurassic Tournaments and the Bowls Academy
contact jurassic.bowls@gmail.com.
David Hayler