2011   

IBA SENIOR CUP FINAL

SATURDAY 27TH AUGUST

AT FALLS BOWLING CLUB, BELFAST

DUNLUCE V ST. JAMES'S GATE

The day did not start well for the Gate: - the original 56 seater bus broke down on the way to pick up the players and two 31 seater coaches were sent. Just outside Newry, the wheel nuts on one of the coaches came loose, which caused an hours delay before they could be tightened with a power tool. The joke was "the wheels came off the bus"  and this was before the match. One hoped that this was not a portent of what was to happen.

They arrived at the green 25 minutes late and the game got under way at 2.45. The Gate won the toss and started well winning on every rink on the first end 6-0 to the Gate. Dunluce came back with a 2 singles and a 3 with Richard Leonard the only Gate rink to win 8-5 to the Gate. On the 3rd end Eamonn Carruth is 5 down and has last bowl. draws to try and rest a Dunluce bowl just pass jack high to cut down the count but glides past to save 1 12-10 to the Gate after 3 ends. On the 4th End the Gate lose on all rinks with Dunluce scoring 7 shots to no reply 12-17 to Dunluce. At 5 ends Eamonn was down 3-6; Robert Maher up 6-3; Richard down 3-5; and John Leonard down 5-6. Score 20-17 to Dunluce. Over the next 3 ends Dunluce increased their lead and were 36-23 ahead after 8 ends. The Gate pulled back a few shots over the next 2 ends and were 9 down at 10 ends 42-33.

On the 12th end Eamonn is lying 1 and draws in and slices the jack over to two gate bowls and is lying 3, he now goes into the lead on his rink 13-7. Richard is lying 4 playing against fellow international Barry Kane, Barry draws in for second shot, and Richard tries to rest him out but fails 1 to Richard. The overall difference is now down to 7 shots. After everyone has finished their 12th end (John was an end behind due to him burning one end) Dunluce were only 3 ahead.

On the 13th end the cup final atmosphere really erupted as right across the green the shot was changing after nearly every bowl on each rink. after this end Eamonn was up 15-9 Richard was all square at 13 all Robert was down 15-9 and John was down 14-8 51-45 to Dunluce.

15th end Eamonn lying 2, Shane brings the jack back to a Dunluce bowl - Eamonn fires and misses. Eamonn has last bowl, but it is dangerous to fire as Dunluce have 2 back bowls - he fires and hits a short bowl 1 to Dunluce. On Ritchie's rink they are lying two and Barry fires, jack jumps back up the green and Dunluce lie 3, Ritchie draws the shot

At 15 ends Eamonn was up 15-11; Robert down 19-9; Richard down 18-15; and John down 16-8 Dunluce ahead by 17 shots 64 to 47.

An accident to the Dunluce number 2  on Richard's rink when he went over on his ankle and was in considerable pain meant he was unable to continue, so a sub had to come on.

At 16 ends Dunluce had added another 3 shots and were 20 shots up. Now the Gate started to pull back and Eamonn was 7 up John and Ritchie were only 3 down each and Robert 6 down only 5 shots in the overall to Dunluce. Next end Eamonn is lying 2 with the jack in the ditch and draws a third, the Dunluce skip, Rodney, draws a close bowl, umpires called to measure only 1 to Eamonn in the end. On Roberts rink they are down a few shots and Mick Gorman playing 3 draws a superb bowl that falls behind the jack and is a toucher. Robert picks up a 2.

With only 8 ends to go overall the Gate are now only 4 down. John is playing his last end and is down a few. He fires and the jack springs back to be near the string with the nearest bowl four yards away. The Dunluce skip tries to draw the shot but his bowl finishes over the string and is dead. John follows with the last bowl, and unfortunately has the same result. The bowls are so far from the jack that the umpires are called in to measure. 4 to Dunluce - That's John's last bowl and his rink finishes 23-16 down.

Eamonn picks up a 2 on the 18th end. On Richard's rink they are playing the last end, and are lying 2 Barry comes up clips Richard's jack high bowl which brings him on to the jack which he trails and he is now lying 2. Richard has last bowl - hits the head - jack in ditch - Richard saved 1 and he finishes 26-17 down

Robert has pulled back to 20 all at 20 ends, and Eamonn is 22-11 up with 2 ends to go - The Gate are now only 5 shots down with 3 ends to be played

Roberts rink is 1 down Mick comes up and hits a short bowl  and is lying the shot, Robert draws a second shot and then a third, Dunluce skip has the last bowl, and he misses the head 3 to the Gate and Robert finishes 23- 20 up.

Now only Eamonn's rink is left and they are half way through the 20th end. the overall is down to 2 shots to Dunluce, but they are lying 3, Eamonn fires to try and bring the jack into the ditch but takes out his back wood. Still 3 up the Dunluce skip is short with his last bowl. The jack is in the open with most of the bowls in a line in front of the jack to the right. Eamonn tries to play a narrow bowl to try and glide into these bowls and slice onto the jack, but he is too narrow, 3 to Dunluce. Now back to 5 shots down

After the leads and 2 have played their bowls the Gate are lying one with 4 Dunluce bowls around it. The Dunluce no 3 puts a bowl around the back. Shane tries to trail the jack to get another shot and goes through the head. Shane then fires with his last bowl . Jack goes cleanly into the ditch with the Gate lying 2. They have 4 back woods with only one Dunluce bowl amongst them. Eamonn fires with his first and connects with the Dunluce bowl which hits off a gate bowl and then trickles to the edge of the ditch and rest there as the Shot. The Gate have 5 seconds (Is everyone going to come out again for an extra end?) Rodney goes to the mat to play his last bowl - you can hear a pin drop amongst the 100 or so spectators - his bowl comes up the green - it is too heavy and is heading for the ditch - but it hits a gate bowl that stops it and it slides over to the other Dunluce bowl about a foot from the ditch and 2 feet away from the other bowl for Dunluce to lie 2. After about 5 minutes of consultation with his rink and the Captain, John Leonard, it was decided that the only thing Eamonn could do was try a billiard shot - hit the Dunluce bowl that was a foot from the ditch on the left hand side and carry on to the other Dunluce bowl on the edge of the rink and put both of them in the ditch - that was the theory anyway - now for the practice. He fires - his bowl looks on target to hit one of the bowls anyway, but it clips a short bowl on the way and that leaves 2 shots and the match to Dunluce. 85-78. A thrilling match for the neutrals, and elation for Dunluce in their first win in the Competition, but huge disappointment for St James's Gate. Leinster remain the only BLI team to win this prestigious cup in 1961, and the Gate now join CYM (1965) as Runners up.

St. James's Gate Beat Belmont in Semi-Final of IBA Senior Cup

Crumlin hosted the Semi-Final of the IBA Senior Cup on Saturday 13th August between St. James's Gate Bowling Club., Dublin and Belmont Bowling Club, Belfast. Officiating on behalf of the IBA were IBA Vice President Ciaran Ryan, & Brian Morton. The Gate got off to a good start, just as the rain started to fall, and at 5 ends were up on two rinks one drawn and one 1 shot behind and were leading by 20 shots to 10 after 5 ends. The two younger skips (26 year old Robert Maher and 27 year old Richard Leonard) were paving the way and at 8 ends Richard had only conceded 2 shots leading 12 - 2 with Robert keeping pace with with his opponents. at 10 ends Richard was 15-5 up Robert 7 all, John Leonard 8-6 up, but Eamonn Carruth's rink was up against International player Robert Horner who was playing out of his skin. Eamonn was down 4-1. Belmont had now reduced the deficit to only 5 shots 34-29 to the Gate. By this time the rain had stopped and the green was playing very well, and the Gate started to pull away again and were up by 12 shots at 13 ends. Over the next 5 ends Robert Maher had scored 8 shots to 1 in reply leading 15-8, John was 3 shots up, Eamonn 7 shots down and Richard 6 shots up 53-44 at 15 ends. The Gate increased the score over the next few ends leading at one stage by 14 shots. On the 18th end on John's rink Belmont were lying 4 shots and John asked Gerry Rutledge to fire on the forehand but he went to narrow with his first, and too wide with his second. Belmont now lying 5 John fired with his first and missed, Belmont drew into the head and the jack moved back into the open, John tried to draw with his last but was just too heavy. On this end Robert lost a shot and Eamonn lost 2 and Richard lost a single. Suddenly there were only 6 shots in the difference. the next few ends the score fluctuated between 4 shots up to 5 shots up. John Leonard had finished 15-22 down. Robert was playing his last end 20-11 up and with Belmont lying 2 or 3 Mick Gorman playing number three came into the head to lie shot. Robert was a fraction short with his first. There was only 4 shots in the overall, and Robert asked his Captain, John Leonard, should he take the one or try to draw in and maybe get three though there was a chance he could give the shot away. John s told him to draw in. Robert just failed so he finished 21 - 11. Richard lost 1 shot on his last end and finished 25-18 up. This left Eamonn Carruth's rink left on the green trailing 11-17 after 19 ends. The lead from Belmont drew two very good bowls and Danny Coad's second bowl came in a close third, Andrew O'Keefe playing number 2 was through the head with his first but came into the head with his second and just failed to get the shot. Shane Leonard's first bowl rested the Belmont bowl and moved it back a fraction. The Head was now not in the Gate's favour and they were possibly down three. Shane fired - hit the head and the jack went flying into the ditch about 7 yards from the head. Belmont were lying a possible 3 or 4, but it was difficult to gauge as the nearest bowl was about 6 yards from the ditch. Robert Horner's first bowl was too heavy and and ended up in the ditch. Eamonn had 6 yards to draw, but was too tight and his bowl was stopped when he went into the bunch. Robert drew the shot with his last bowl about two and a half yards from the ditch. Eamonn had last bowl, all he needed was a good second, which would mean the Gate would be three up playing the last end - Disaster - he was short and did not make any change. The Umpires John Murphy, and Dennis Patrick were called to measure. result 2 to Belmont, with Danny Coad's back bowl lying third. The Belmont lead played a bowl jack high, Danny drew a beautiful bowl about 3 inches from the jack and slightly to the side. Andrew drew one behind, and after Shane had covered bowls at the back and the Belmont three had put another bowl in the head, Danny's bowl was the only Gate bowl in the head, but this time the head was in the Gate's favour with Bowls behind to either side of the head. Robert Horner was to high and heavy with his first, Eamonn put his first bowl behind the head to be best back. After some discussion with his team Robert said he would try and clip out the Gate bowl which would give Belmont three shots and the match. His bowl came down the green and looked to be right on target, but at the last minute drew across the head missing everything. Gate won 73-70. John Leonard spoke after the match and said that Belmont were the best team they had come across this year, and they had to fight all the way to win, what was in the end a thrilling Match. The IBA Vice President Ciaran Ryan, congratulated both teams and especially St. James; Gate in reaching the Final, as this was only the third time that a BLI team had achieved this with Leinster winning the competition in 1961, and CYM in the late sixties who were runners up. Venue for Final to be confirmed

In this section read the report on Richard Leonard and also the 2011 BLI Championships

The highlight of this year was the success of Richard Leonard (St. James's Gate) winning the British Isles Singles Championships

Below is the report on this achievement

Richard Leonard (27) from St James’s Bowling Club in Dublin made history over the last weekend. He is the first player from the Bowling League of Ireland (BLI) to win the prestigious British Isles Singles title. To get to this stage he first had to win the singles title in the BLI Championships, confined to players in the Republic of Ireland. He then went on to win the National All Ireland Irish Bowling Association (IBA) Singles Title, which qualified him to play in the British Isles Bowls Championships (BIBC) which were held in Sighthill Bowling Club in Edinburgh. This is contested between the National Champions of England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Jersey and Guernsey.

He first had to play a preliminary round against Dan de la Mare from Guernsey who he beat 21 -13, then in the Semi Final he came up against the experienced Jersey player Thomas Grechan who he beat 21 -9. In the final he beat England’s International Steve Mitcheson 21 – 16.

Richard started playing bowls when he was 12 years old, and at 16 became an Under 25 International. He played on the under 25 International team until he became ineligible, and the following year he was immediately promoted to the Senior International team, and has retained his place ever since.

Richard along with his father, John and Steve Millane, all from St. James’s Gate also qualified this year in the BIBC Triples competition for the third time in 5 years, but unfortunately were beaten at the semi - final stage.

In the international series Ireland with Richard Leonard, and Blair Somers from the Blackrock Club part of the team, came runners up in the series.

Richard will now be representing Ireland in the World Champion of Champions in Hong Kong in November, where he will be competing against the champions of 45 Countries. 

BLI CHAMPIONSHIPS 2011

The Vice President of Dun Laoghaire Gilmour Byrne welcomed players officials and spectators to Dun Laoghaire and handed the green over to the President of the BLI John O'Sullivan who opened the the Championships at 6.00pm by accepting the green and raising the BLI Flag.

Monday saw the Semi-Finals of the Senior and Junior singles  and the first of the Under 18 singles

BANK OF IRELAND INVESTMENT CUP

The Under 18 semi between Peter White (Rosslare) and newcomer to all of us in Dublin, David Wolfe (ICICYMA) who is the grandson of long time secretary of the Cork club John Wolfe. Peter started off well and went into an early lead. David got off to a slow start, but gradually pulled back Peter's lead. The turning point in the match  was at 15 - 14 to Peter, when David was lying 4 and Peter's last bowl was short. David went on to win 21 -16

MARPER CUP

Nicky Smyth (Leinster) came up against Donie Garvey (CYM) conqueror of BIBC Champion Richard Leonard in a previous round. Donie played the drawing game throughout the match, firing only once, whereas Nicky was constantly firing. Nicky is a very good drawing bowler, and if he could only curb his firing game he would be a much better bowler. To many times he took the option of firing when a drawing bowl could have cut down the count, and maybe the final outcome would have been much closer. with the score on 20-9 to Donie and lying game Nicky fired and this time it came off and he pulled back 2 shots. Over the next few ends with drawing weight Nicky had caught up to 14 - 20. With what turned out to be the last end Donie is again lying game, and Nicky had two attempts at firing and missed. Game to Donie 21 - 14

The other Marper match was between Pat Whelan (Leinster) and ex Leinster player now CYM Stan Johns. this was a much closer match with the lead changing a number of times. What a difference to see a match where each player is trying to out draw the other and hardly a firing bowl all match. Pat ran out the winner 21-17.

NASSAU CUP

Two CYM players Darren Richards & Dennis Toomey fought this one out, and in the beginning it was very close at 9-8 to Darren he started to pull away and Dennis was only able to get one more shot. 21 - 9.

The Other match was between Mike Edwards Skerries and ex Skerries man John Dunne now Aer Lingus. John was bowling very well. This match was very similar to the other Nassau game and John won 21-9

TUESDAY (The day of injuries)

This was supposed to be the first of Steve Millane's three semi-Finals. Unfortunately while on holiday last week he broke his foot. There are various rumours going around as to how he did this. One is that he was skipping and tripped on the rope (Everyone says that Stephen can't skip anyway!) Another one is he was standing at a bar and somebody stepped back and stood on his foot (It was probably because Stephen hadn't bought a round in 4 hours!) In any event what ever the truth he is unable to compete this week, and his participation in the National Championships in 5 weeks time is in doubt if they get through .

BANK OF IRELAND INVESTMENT CUP

The second under 18 match was between another grandson of John Wolfe, 15 year old Simon Wolfe (ICICYMA Cork) who came up against the experienced John Byrne of Crumlin. Simon put up a good show but John was always in front in this match. Simon had a good delivery for such a young man and was drawing very well but John's experience showed through in the end. the final score 21-7. I am sure we will see more of Simon in the future.

BOYD CUP

Mick Gorman, sub for Stephen Millane, and Dominic Lloyd (Gate) were playing Trevor Murphy and Bernie Vaughan from Blackrock. Mick was leading very well, and at 5 ends the Gate were 7-0 up. They extended the lead over the next 5 end with the Rock only scoring 4 shots 16-4 at 10 ends. The Rock were not playing badly, but the combination of the lead's bowls and Dominic cementing the head, It was difficult for them to convert any of the heads. Shots were exchanged over the next 5 ends with 5 shots each. 21-10 at 15 ends. over the last few ends 4 shots each were scored and the Rock shook hands with the score 24-14 with 2 ends to go.

The second match was between Shane & Richard Leonard up against Michael Fitzsimons & Bernard O'Keefe (Meath). In a close fought match in the beginning at 5 ends Meath were 6-4 up with Bernard saving shots and drawing very well, Then the Gate came into there own scoring 13 shots to 1 in reply over the next 5 ends. 17-7 at 10 ends, Meath came back over the next 5 ends scoring 4 shots to 2 in reply. 19-11 to the Gate at 15 ends. 4 shots to the gate with 3 in reply from Meath brought the score to 23-14 at 19 ends, and Meath shook hands.

TYLER CUP

Another injury - Derek O'Toole from the Gate had a nasty fall off the bank practicing the day before and went over on his ankle. He spent half the previous day in St, James's Hospital. He was limping very badly, which curtailed his mobility on the green. He was partnered by Willie Rock who was substituting for John Jackson, who had gone on holidays! Why anyone would arrange holidays during Championship week when they are in two semis is beyond me!. They came up against the in form Darren Richards and Pat O'Flaherty from CYM. In the beginning the match was very close 4 all at 5 ends. this trend continued over the next 5 ends with the score at 10-8 to the Gate at 10 ends. Then CY started to pull away scoring 13 shots to 3 in reply 21-13 at 15 ends. The Gate could only score 1 more shot as CY came out winners at 28-14. Derek's injury definitely had a bearing on this game

The second game was between Pat Traynor and Roy Trayler (Greystones) and father & son Adam & Derek Kells from Railway Union. This match was the closest match of all four pairs. 6-3 to Greystones at 5 ends, then the lead changed at 10 ends with Railway leading 11-8, 5 shots each over the next 5 ends saw Railway in front by 3 shots 16-13. Railway held on to win 22-20

RAILWAY UNION CUP

This match was a repeat of last year's semi- final Shane Leonard (Gate) V Mark O'Looney (Aer Lingus) last year Mark won 21-19 but Shane got his revenge in the Leinster Singles beating Mark 21-19. Will we see a close match again. We were not disappointed. Brilliant bowling by both players throughout the match with the lead changing numerous times. Mark was leading 17-15 and Shane drew 2, 17 all Shane got another 2 the score 19-17 to Shane, another single to Shane 20-17.  Mark scored 2 the next end 20-19, could this be another 21-19 score between these to rivals - the answer is yes as Shane picked up a single to win 21-19.

BAIRD CUP

Dominic Lloyd, (Sub for Stephen Millane) John & Richard Leonard played Frank Dignam, Kirk & Joe Fitzsimons from Aer Lingus. After a tight few ends, the score was 6-4 to the Gate, by 10 ends the gate had pulled away to lead 14-8 and over the next 5 ends had scored 8 shots to 3 in reply. another 5 shots with no reply by Aer Lingus, saw the gate comfortable winners at 27-11

The second triple was between Noel Maher, Eamonn McEvoy & Ian D'Arcy (Crumlin) and Frank Garratt, Ray Grimason & Nick Collie of Kenilworth. 1 shot to Kenilworth in the first end, second end Crumlin lying 4 or 5 and Nick burnt the end. in the replayed end Kenilworth got the shot. In reply Crumlin got one in the next end. at 5 ends it 8-1 to Kenilworth. Kenilworth increased their lead over the next few ends to lead 11-1 at 10 ends. Then Crumlin started to get their act together and over the next 5 ends scored 7 shots to 1 in reply 14-12 to Crumlin at 15 ends. This was the longest match of the evening. at 17-14 to Crumlin playing the last end with darkness settling in quickly, Kenilworth were lying 2 when Eamonn came down and trailed the jack, Nick tried to trail the jack back to his back bowls but failed with his first 2. He fired with his last and connected, but it was still 1 to Crumlin Winners by 18-14 in the closest match of the evening.

BLI CUP

Greg Tierney. Liam Morrissey & Mike Brophy (Greystones) played Nicky O'Meara, John Conway & John Dunne (Aer Lingus). Aer Lingus started off well leading 9-3 at 5 ends, Greystones nearly matched them over the next 5 ends scoring 3 shots to 4 in reply 13-6 at 10 ends. By the 15th end Aer Lingus were 10 ahead 21-11. Over the next 2 ends Greystones had 4 more shots with no reply now 15-21 down needing 6 to draw. they only managed 2 final score 21-17 to Aer Lingus

The second Tyler match between Mike Edwards, Kieran Birchall & Mark O'Leary (Skerries) and Harry Marshall Michael Cuffe & Ken Murphy (Rosslare) turned out to be a one sided affair. The Rosslare triple are not that used to playing on grass, and that proved to be their downfall. at 5 ends it was 8-4 to Skerries. This increased to 14- 6 over the next 5 ends, and at 15 ends Rosslare had not scored another shot with the score now on 24-6. another 2 ends was enough for Rosslare to shake hands at 29-8.

SIXSMITH CUP

Marcus Donohoe, Paul O'Hara, Paul Doyle & Noel O'Hara (Herbert Park) played Danny Coad, Andrew O'Keefe, Robert Maher & Eamonn Carruth from the Gate. Before the match talk was of the experience of the Herbert Park four being no match for the young Gate triples - how wrong they were. The gate rushed into a lead of 8-2 at 5 ends, which quickly turned into 14-3 at 10 ends. The front end of the Gate triples setting up the head, and 26 year old Robert Maher either consolidating the head or breaking it up, leaving Eamonn with very little to do except protect the head. at 15 ends the score was 21-5. Herbert Park again did not play badly but they were just out bowled on the night. Final score 27-5

The much anticipated Semi Final of the "Big Guns" between Blackrock and the Gate was a match to savour. The Rock team of Mark Brown, Ian Gillen, James Murphy & Blair Somers with a current International and 2 former internationals, and Mark Brown's experience of winning this competition last year when he was with Dun Laoghaire looked a formidable team. they were against the experienced gate four of Dominic Lloyd (subbing again for Stephen) Shane Leonard (under 25 International) Richard Leonard (Senior International) and John Leonard. this match lived up to its expectations. All the heads were very close, and Blair was playing out of his skin drawing bowls to save and get the shot on numerous occasions. At 5 ends the rock were 7-0 up. they increased this lead over the next 5 ends to be 13-4 up at 10 ends. The Gate fought back to score 5 shots to 1 in reply to go into the 16th end 14 - 9 down. Next end the rock lying 2 and Dominic fired and the Jack moved back to the right about 5 yards from the head out on its own. Ian could not get near the jack and Richard drew 3 bowls to lie 3 shots. Blair was a bit heavy with his first, but his last bowl came in for shot - not for the first time- John could not change the head. Playing the last end the gate needed four to draw, with some good bowling the head changed a few times and when John went to the head the Gate were lying 2 and needed another 2 to draw. With the dew settling in the green was getting a little bit heavier and his first bowl was a short, Blair was short with his first also, John was a yard short with his second and Blair did not need to bowl his last bowl 16-14 to Blackrock.

MECREDY CUP

The first match was between Willie Cullen, Brendan Fairbrother, John C. Lee & Martin Cullen (Crumlin) and last year's runners up from Railway Union Vivion Daly, John Mellon, Ultan & Nigel Daly. This match turned out to be another one sided affair at 5 ends Railway were 8-2 ahead and this increased to 20-3 at 10 ends. the next 5 ends were much closer with Crumlin scoring 3 shots to 4 24-6 to Railway. at 20 ends the score had progressed to 25-14 and everyone thought they would shake hands, but they played on with Railway scoring 2. Winners Railway 27-14

The other match was between Bernard Carroll, Derek O'Toole (Whose ankle injury was much improved) Dan Redmond (sub for John Jackson) and Richard Newman from the Gate and the CYM four of Joe O'Rourke, Gerry O'Brien, Darren Richards (Playing in his third semi and hoping to get into his third final) and Pat O'Flaherty. At the beginning this was a close match with CY leading 7-2 at 5 ends which quickly turned into 12-6 at 15 ends there were only 8 shots in the game which is not insurmountable with 6 ends to go. But the Gate could only manage 3 more shots to CYM's 7. Winners CYM 25-13

RAILWAY UNION CUP

The last of the singles was between Railway Union's Zac Martin, (who was carrying a shoulder injury from rugby, and had to have a plate inserted. he played with his left are in a sling, which obviously hampered his delivery) and John Byrne from Crumlin in his second semi-final having all ready won the under 18 semi. It started off with john scoring a few shots in the first few ends but Zac came back and the score was 6 all then it went to 7 all. John started to pull away and went 16 - 7 up. Zac picked up a few more shots and was 18-11 down, John got to 19, but Zac won the next to ends to be 6 behind, a close end followed with the lead changing a few times but John eventually got the 2 he needed to win 21-13.

FINALS

FRIDAY 29th JULY

RAILWAY UNION CUP

Shane Leonard (Gate) V John Byrne (Crumlin). Shane went into an early lead and was leading 7-1, but that does not tell the whole story. Every end was closely fought and if Shane was holding the shot John would be a few inches away with second shot. Shane increased his lead and at one stage was 13-1 up, then 16-3. John then picked up a single followed by a 2 and another single to bring the score to 16-7 then a 2 on the next end brought him closer 16-9. Shane scored two 2s to bring it to 20-9, Both bowlers playing extremely well, but Shane just was able to produce the telling bowls at the end. a single on the next end gave Shane the match 21-9

TYLER CUP

Darren Richards & Pat O'Flaherty (CYM) V Adam & Derek Kells (Railway Union) In the first 5 ends there were only 7 shots scored 4-3 to CY. they then went further ahead being 8-6 up after 9 ends. Adam had a great 10th end drawing three shots which Derek added another and Railway went ahead for the first time 10-8, they then increased this lead over the next 5 ends to be 17-11 up at 15 ends. 6 shots with 6 ends to go still anybody's match. CY pulled back a few shots and at 20 ends were only  4 shots behind. Railway managed to hold onto the shot and won 22-17.

BLI CUP

Nicky O'Meara, John Conway and John Dunne (Aer Lingus) V Mike Edwards, Kieran Birchall & Mark O'Leary (Skerries) For the first half of this match the scores were very close 5 ends 4-3 to Aer Lingus then 11-7 after 10 ends. Then Aer Lingus took flight scoring 12 shots without reply over the next 5 ends to lead 23-7 at 15 ends. Skerries scored 1 on the 16th end, and Aer Lingus replied with a single the next end. Skerries then threw in the towel with Aer Lingus winners 24-8

BAIRD CUP

Noel Maher, Eamonn McEvoy, & Ian D'Arcy (Crumlin) V Dominic Lloyd, John & Richard Leonard ( St. James Gate) This was a different Crumlin team that turned up tonight to the way they played in the semi. Everyone of them were on their game drawing beautifully, converting shots with a yard on or firing, every thing was coming off for them, in spite of equally good bowls from the Gate trio. Crumlin were 7-1 after 4 ends, then the Gate picked up a single. Over the next 5 ends shots were shared 5 each 12-7 to Crumlin. All the heads were very close, Shott bowl was changing after nearly every bowl played. after 14 ends the Gate drew level 13-13 and went ahead for the first time in the match by one shot to lead 14-13. Three ends to go a single to Crumlin on the 16th and 17th ends gave them a 15-14 lead playing the last end. Noel leads first with a bowl a foot short followed closely by Dominic. Noel plays a bowl jack high and draws his third just behind. Dominic comes off the jack high bowl to lie shot. 6 great bowls by both Eamonn and John still have the Gate lying one. Richard tries to get a close second and just fails, Ian follows with another great bowl but can't get the Gate bowl out. there are 10 bowls within a foot of the jack. Richard has 2 bowls left to Ian's one. He bowls a perfect weight, glides off a jack high bowl to lie behind the jack and two shots. Ian fires with his last and this time he misses. No need for Richard to play his last bowl. Gate winners 16-15. This is the third year in a row and the fourth in 6 years that they have won the title - a great achievement, and this year it was without the other one! Well done Dominic in keeping up the tradition.

SATURDAY'S FINALS

NASSAU CUP

Darren Richards CYM,(In the second of his three finals) played John Dunne, Aer Lingus. Darren got off to a great start scoring a 4 in the first end, John came back over the next few ends and the score moved on to 6-6. Half way through the match Darren scored another 4, and started to move ahead again. John did not give up. Darren was lying three and John came in with his last bowl to lie shot. Scores were matched over the next few ends and at this stage Darren was 17-15 up. Darren played a full length  jack and lay 2, John was short with his first two, Darren bowled 2 more to lie 4 and game but John had one more bowl to come. He just slid by the head and Darren won the match 21-15

BANK OF IRELAND INVESTMENT CUP

This under 18 final was between David Wolfe (ICICYMA Cork) and John Byrne (Crumlin) who had won the title for the last two years. John got off to a good start and was leading 7-2. a single to David at the next end. John then increased his lead to 10-3. over the next few ends John's experience showed through and he was now leading 19-6. Not that David was playing badly, but John was just drawing his bowls closer to the jack. a 2 on the next end saw John win out 21-6

MARPER CUP

Donie Garvey (CYM) V Pat Whelan (Leinster) Donie started off well and was leading 6-1 which increased to 8-1. Donie could do no wrong in this match, and every time pat was lying shot Donie was able to better it, and Pat could do nothing about it. Pat was stuck on 1. Donie continued to pick up shots and was leading 17-1 before Pat got his second shot. the score went to 18-2 then 18-3, but Donie held on to win 21-3

MECREDY CUP

Ultan Daly, John Mellon, Vivion & Nigel Daly (Railway Union) Runners up last year, and hoping to go one step better this year came up against Joe O'Rourke Gerry O'Brien, Pat O'Flaherty and Darren Richards (CYM). CY got off to the best start and were leading 7-2 at 5 ends, over the next 5 ends Railway outscored CY by 1 shot to make the score 10-6 to CY. No matter how hard Railway tried they could not get closer to CY 3 shots each over the next 5 ends saw the score 13-9 to CY. On the 16th end Railway got the shot and this was repeated over the next 3 ends. so playing the 20th end the scores were tied at 13-13. Railway got the shot again to go in front for the first time in the match. the final end, the head changed a few times, but Nigel drew the shot, and Darren could not improve on it. 15-13 to Railway.

SIXSMITH CUP

Danny Coad, Andrew O'Keefe, Robert Maher and Eamonn Carruth (St. James's Gate) played James Murphy, Mark Brown, Ian Gillen and Blair Somers (Blackrock). This game was another excellent demonstration of drawing bowls. nearly all the heads were close, with the shot changing numerous times each end. at 5 3nds the Rock were 6-4 ahead this increased to 12-4 at 10 ends. Blair was again giving an exhibition on drawing bowls. (It was no wonder he was on the Irish squad of the 12 elite players in Ireland last year) 5 shots each over the next 5 ends score at 15 ends 17-9 to the Rock. They scored a single on the 16th end and in reply the Gate scored a single over the next three ends 13- 18 to the Rock only 5 shots in it now with 2 ends to go. The Rock got the shot on the 20th end so the Gate needed 6 shots to draw and force an extra end. They could not manage it and the Rock were the winners 20-13.

BOYD CUP

The all Gate clash of Mick Gorman and Dominic Lloyd Versus Shane & Richie Leonard proved to be the match of the finals. Shane and Ritchie got off to a great start picking up a 4 and a 5 on the first two end to lead 9-0. a single to Ritchie on the 3rd end but Dominic came back with 3 shots over the next 2 ends 10-3 to Richard at 5 ends. Shots were more or less shared over the next 5 ends with Richard still in front 13-7. six shots each over the next 5 and Richard led 19-13 at 15 ends. On the 16th end a long jack, Mick trails the jack to the ditch, toucher on the edge of the ditch to Dominic and Shane with a toucher which was jack high. Richard tries to knock the Shane's toucher into the ditch, but it goes out wide to lie on the edge of the ditch but not counting. Richard's last bowl knocks in one of Mick's bowl and Dominic picks up 4. on the 17th end another one to Dominic and suddenly they were only one shot behind 19-18 to Richard. 2 singles to Richard in the next 2 ends followed by a 2 to Dominic on the 20th end 21-20 to Richard playing the last end. Mick's first to bowls are a couple of feet short, Shane draws two bowls just pass jack high and one a foot short, Mick's last bowl draws in for shot. Richard tries to draw in for shot but fails. Dominic draws in on the forehand to what looks like a perfectly weighted bowl that should make it two shots, the bowl touches the jack - and Disaster, just tips it enough to move it to Shane's two bowls. - From one up and tying the match to two down and losing the match. Richard puts a bowl behind to protect. Last bowl of the match to Dominic, and he could not change the head. Game to Shane and Richard 23-21.

Congratulations to all the winners and we wish all those who are playing in the National Finals on the 2nd & 3rd September in Carrickfergus every success.

A big thanks to The President John O'Sullivan and all the officers and members of Dun Laoghaire, for the way the competitions were organised and the facilities that they laid on and to the ladies for providing the tea & sandwiches each day.

BLI CHAMPIONSHIPS 2010

The President of Crumlin John C. Lee welcomed players officials and spectators to Crumlin and handed the green over to the President of the BLI Eddie Jackson who opened the the Championships at 6.00pm by accepting the green and raising the BLI Flag. Congratulations to the Crumlin Club for the presentation of their premises and green which were in immaculate condition.

St. James's Gate are favorites to pick up quite a few trophies this week having 12 teams in the 19 Semi-Finals.

Wednesday 28th July 2010

Railway Union Cup

The first match took place at 3.00pm between Conor Middleton from ICICYMA Cork and Andrew O'Keefe St. James's Gate. I could not attend this match, but I heard that Conor played exceptionally well, and ran out a winner 21 - 16.

The second match was between last years runner up Shane Leonard St. James's Gate and Mark O'Looney Aer Lingus.

The report on this match and the rest of the triples matches will be posted on Thursday afternoon.

Tuesday 27th July 2010

Tyler Cup

The first match was between Mike Brophy & Aiden Kelly of Greystones and Ultan Daly & Nigel Day of Railway Union. Greystones got off the mark first with a two with Railway equaling that at the next end. At 5 ends the score was 5- 4 to Railway. Over the next few ends shots were exchanged constantly and at 5 ends the score was 5 - 4 to Railway, only 8 shots scored by both teams over the next 5 with Railway creeping ahead to 11 - 6. 11th end very close head with Greystones getting the shot. Next 4 ends Greystones get closer. 13 - 9. Railway then start to take a commanding leading 18 - 12 at 19 ends. Railway get a 2 on the 20th end and lead 20-12. Greystones decide they are not going to get 8 shots on the last end and shake hands.

Second semi was between Bernard Carroll & Richard Newman from the Gate and Declan Byrne & Pat McGonigle of Aer Lingus. The first 2 ends a shot each Aer Lingus ahead 5 - 4 at 5 ends. A very close match this with both teams playing well. 10 ends the gate were 9 - 8 ahead. Over the next 3 ends Aer Lingus came back at them to lead 15 - 11 at 15 ends. The Gate caught up 16 - 14 at 17 ends. 16 all at18 ends. A/L are holding shot, Richard gets it clean out gate back to lead 17 - 16. Bernard was short with his first 3 bowls,  but takes out an A/L bowl with his fourth. A/L end up with 1 17 all. 20th end Aer Lingus lie 1 Richard takes jack back to the ditch 18 - 17 to the gate. Last end head changing constantly, Aer Lingus get the shot on a measure. 18 all EXTRA END Another close head A/L lie then the Gate, eventually after the last bowl is played the Umpire is called to determine shot. Gate win! 19-18

Boyd Cup

Vincent Bolger & Eddie Coogan from Ierne came up against John Leonard and Stephen Millane from St. James's Gate. Ierne scored 1 on the first end then the Gate got going and scored two 3s to lead 6- 1. Next end Eddie is down 4 and knocks up a Gate bowl 5 to the Gate followed by a 2 at the next end. 13 - 1 to the gate at 5 ends. At 10 ends the Gate had moved ahead to 17 - 5. Ierne got the shot on the 12th end 20 - 6. 13th end the gate lie 2 Stephen comes up on the backhand and moves the jack, but still lie 2, such is the luck going with the Gate as well of course good bowling.22 - 6. 14th end Ierne lie 2 Stephen fires with his first 3 bowls and misses but connects with his fourth and burns the end! the next end Ierne lie 2 Eddie draws a third Steve fires and knocks in another Ierne bowl making 4. Steve fires again but drops 3 22 - 9. at 15th end Gate pick up a 2 24 - 9. 16th end Ierne lying 3 again, Steve draws second, Eddie makes no change, Steve moves the jack back - Ierne back to lying three. Eddie draws one close but does not increase the count. Steve plays a few feet of running and wicks off 4 bowls to lie shot. Eddie fires and burns the end. Ierne get the shot on the replayed end, and on the 17th end the Gate pick up 4. 26 - 10 and Ierne shake hands.

The second Semi was between Paul Whitney & Andrew O'Keefe St. James's Gate and Donie Garvey & Derek McCarthy CYM. CYM start off with a shot on the first. gate pick up 3 on the second. 3 - 1 . Gate are lying and Derek plays a yard on shot with his last 2 bowls but misses the head and Andrew draws in 2 more 8 - 1 to the gate. they pick up another at the next end followed by a single to CYM on the 5th 9 - 2 to the Gate at 5 ends. Over the next 5 ends CYM caught up and went ahead 11 - 10 at 10 ends Shot each next 2 ends 12 - 11 to CYM.  At 15 ends the score was 16 - 13 to CYM. at the 16th end with three against Andrew draws the shot 16-14. over the next four end the Gate started to score again and had picked up 6 shots to CYM's 3 and were going into the last end 1 up 20 - 19. Paul draws 2 close bowls, Donie follows drawing close but still 2 the the Gate. Derek fires with his first hits the head, Jack goes into the ditch and Derek's bowl lies just past  a back Gate bowl to lie shot about 2 yards from the ditch., but it is not a toucher. Andrew fires to try and push Derek's bowl into the ditch and misses, Andrew fires again - misses. Derek tries to draw a near bowl but there is a slight fall off into the ditch and once the bowl hits the slope it ends up in the ditch. Andrew fires with his next 2 bowls with his last one narrowly missing the bowl. Derek tries to draw a second but is just short. 20 all EXTRA END. Paul draws two great bowls 7 inches from the jack. Donie is near, By the time the skips go up to bowl the Gate still lie 2. Andrew draws up and brings the jack back, but goes through the head about 6 inches. This has now made the head easier for Derek. He draws the shot to loud applause around the green just in front of the jack. Andrew has 2 bowls left to try and push Derek's bowl on to the jack which would push it to his back bowl. His first attempt is unusually wide, as he has been taking a very good line all evening. It must be catching as Derek does exactly the same. Andrew's last bowl, looks to be dead on line, everyone is holding their breath, it gets closer starts to turn, and is heading straight for Derek's bowl, but just scrapes past it. 21 20 to CYM

Monday 26th July 2010

Bank of Ireland under 18 Competition

John Lynch from Meath came up against the experienced John Byrne form Crumlin, In this match John Byrne was always in command of the match scoring shots early on and going into an early lead. John Lynch fought back bravely, but could not match the experience of Byrne who won comfortably in the end 21 - 11 Byrne will now meet Justin Roux, from St. James Gate in the Final

NASSAU CUP

Maurice McCarthy from Rosslare, winner of the Junior Pairs last year, was playing against N. O'Meara of Aer Lingus. This was a much closer match with the lead changing constantly. Maurice eventually winning 21 - 18

The second match was between D. Richards of CYM and another Aer Lingus player J. Conway. with Richards eventually winning the match 21 - 10

MARPER CUP

Three Gate Players and one Crumlin player fought out these Semi-Finals. The first match was between Richard Leonard, St. James's Gate and Ian D'Arcy form Crumlin. Richard started well picking up three 2s  to lead 6 - nil the next two ends Ian got two 3s. 6 - 6. To be honest the first half of the match, the players struggled with the pace of the green, and the jack was being delivered to different lengths each end which did not help. Over the next few ends Ian  had a narrow lead. The score reached 15 - 15, and by this time the heads were much closer and both players drawing very well. Richard picked up a three 18 - 15. Next end Richard is lying shot, Ian fires with his last bowl, moves the jack and is now lying three, with his nearest bowl about two feet from the jack. Richard draws the shot to an off centre jack. 19 - 15. The next end Ian draws the shot, Richard is 2 feet short, Ian draws another, about a foot from the jack. Richard's draws around the Ian's bowl to lie shot. They now have their last bowls to play - Ian fires, hits the head, jack goes off to the left - Richard still lies shot, Richard asks the Marker, Brian Morton, who has second shot?. They each have a bowl about four to five feet from the jack, and Brian does not commit himself, but says it looks like two but the bowls are too far away to be certain as it is a long measure. Richard goes back to the mat to bowl his last bowl, and draws the shot to within a foot of the jack to win the game 21 - 15.

The second match was between the two Gate players, Gerry Rutledge and John Leonard. John is hoping to emulate Ian Gillen, who won all four senior titles in 2002 in Aer Lingus. This is the first of John's four Semi-Finals. But first he has to overcome an in form Gerry. It did not look well for John in the beginning with Gerry out bowling John and going into an early lead 14 - 2. Gradually John battled back but Gerry kept him at bay. At each end Gerry's first bowl was always on the jack or within two feet. Gerry had now a fairly comfortable lead 18 - 14 ahead. The next end he scored a 2 now 20 - 14. it looked like it was all over. Gerry lies shot two feet in front of the jack, John's first bowl is a bit heavy and he is three feet through.  Gerry is short to the right of the jack. John draws the shot around Gerry's bowl. Gerry is too wide and through the head. John draws around Gerry's front bowl again but is much tighter, and the bowl swings over to the right. John could be lying two but it is a measure. The back hand is not on for Gerry as he could possibly slice the jack to give John three, so he plays the forehand - he is too tight - goes across the head and catches the jack on the opposite side and slices it over to the right. John is now holding three and draws around Gerry's bowl to pick up 4. Game on! 20 - 18. Gerry has first bowl, but it is two and a half feet short. John draws around it to lie on the jack. Gerry draws a bowl to the left of his first but about a foot short. John draws another. Gerry's next bowl rest on his second. John draws a bowl about two feet through the head. Gerry has a long look at the head, Does he put one behind to prevent John picking up a three for the match, or does he try to draw through the channel that has been created to spilt John's two bowls. He takes the latter option, and plays a yard on shot, goes into the head, and when the dust has settled, John lies the three shots he needs to win the match without having to play his last bowl. 21 - 20. So now we have a fascinating prospect of a father & son competing for the Marper Cup.

 OFFICERS ELECTED AT 2009 AGM                                    

This year there is a brand new look to the officers of the BLI. The only Officer remaining from last year is the Competition Secretary, Ricky Byrne.

NEW FACES

Eddie Jackson takes over from Richard Neilson as President. Eddie is one of the few people in the history of the BLI to hold the office of president twice. He last held the post in 1996.

John O'Sullivan from Dunlaoghaire becomes the Vice President. John has been an active member of his club for a number of years. He is also on the relocation committee for the new premises for Dun Laoghaire B.C.

Ronan Collins Ronan is the new Honorary Secretary he has been the Assistant Honorary Secretary of the BLI since 2004, he takes over from Con O'Driscoll who has retired due to ill health. We would like to pass our best wishes to Con, and hopes he regains full fitness shortly. Ronan has been actively involved in administration at his club Kenilworth, as Honorary Secretary and Competition Secretary for the past number of years, and his experience will no doubt benefit the BLI.

Jim Bradshaw Jim takes over from Ronan as Assistant Honorary Secretary. Jim has been involved in bowls for over 25 years, and has always had something to say about how the BLI should be run. His experience will be invaluable to the BLI, as he has been involved in administration in such prestigious clubs as Clontarf, St. James's Gate, Leinster and presently with Aer Lingus.

John J. Murphy Takes over from David Kavanagh as Honorary League Secretary. John has also been involved in bowls for over 25 years. He is a Senior Coach and Umpire and has umpired at International level. This year he has been appointed Vice Chairman of the Irish Bowls Umpires Association, and he is also on the management committee. He has been involved in the last few years in running the prestigious Leinster-Crumlin Tournament. He will be a worthy successor to Dave.

Brian C. Morton  Brian comes back into the fold as Honorary Treasurer. He has been involved in the BLI since 1993, and has held the offices of Competition Secretary, Honorary Secretary and President. He resigned from the BLI in 2006, but has been working in the background for the last three years, and been involved in the amalgamation process and is the present IBA Anti-Doping Officer. He has been on the IBA Council since 1998. he is also heavily involved in his club Kenilworth and is the current Company Secretary.

Derek Kells. Derek joins us from Railway Union as PRO. This is a position that has been vacant for a number of years, and with Derek's experience in Railway and at National level this is indeed a welcome addition to the BLI. He is currently the Club Captain and the Bowling representative on the Executive Committee, he is on the Grounds committee and last year he was club captain of the hockey section. He is manager of the Railway Union Senior Soccer team, and secretary to the Leinster Athletic Union League. With his vast knowledge of a number of sports, and his ability at administration, we look forward to his new role as PRO.

 BLI CHAMPIONSHIPS 2009


The championships were opened by the President Richard Nielson at 6.00pm in Bray Bowling Club on Monday 27th July. Also present was the Chairman of Bray County Council, who welcomed everybody and congratulated the BLI on winning the Senior Inter-Association Series for the first time.

                                                                         MONDAY 27TH JULY

MARPER CUP
Richard Darcy (CYM) played Brian Walsh (Bray) This was tight match with the early exchanges being fairly even each player matching scores. On a few occasions Brian had the misfortune to knock up Richard's bowl when Brian was lying shot to give the shot away. The standard of bowls was very good, although the Rink was playing fairly narrow on all four hands. scores were matched at 11 all, when Brian pulled into the lead 15 - 12. Richard came back over the next few ends. Some very close bowls by both players but Richard went into the lead. At 18 - 16 and Richard lying two shots and Brian had third shot less than 8 inches from the jack. The head looked to be in his favour as he had a bowl just behind, but his last bowl just missed the head and sailed passed. Richard had last bowl to win the match but it pulled up short. He had to be very careful as if he was too heavy he could have given the shot away. The next end Brian was short with his first and Richard was long. Richard landed one on the jack, and Brian could not dislodge it. Game to Richard 21 - 16.

The second match was between that veteran campaigner Paul Smyth (Leinster) and the home player Tom Deegan. Tom was on a high having just shared the 1,000 Euro prize the previous day at the Kenilworth Mixed Rinks Tournament. The match started with Paul going into the lead, but Tom came back at him. Some close heads and good bowling between the two, and the score was 15 - 12 to Paul. twice, when Tom was lying three Paul was able to come in and get  the shot. With the score at 20 - 17 to Paul and lying the shot, with a bowl about two and half feet from the jack, Tom had the chance to come in for shot with his last bowl, Unfortunately, as he said himself after the match he held onto his bowl and landed short. Game to Paul 21 - 17

NASSAU CUP

Fred Dignam from Meath got a walk over due to Alan Burke from D.L.G.C. unable to attend due him going on holiday. The other match was between Ricky Byrne (Meath) and Martin Murray of Bray. Ricky went into an early lead, and looked to be walking away with the match, but Martin had other ideas. This was the longest match of the evening, with all the other matches being completed by 8.00pm. Martin pulled level at 14 all and with some good drawing bowls eventually winning 21 - 14

RAILWAY UNION CUP

This Under 25 match pitched Mark O'Looney from Meath against Paul Smyth's youngest son Thomas Smyth (Leinster) Mark went into an early lead, and kept ahead through the whole match. Thomas was forced to drive quite a few times but could not really make any headway. Mark eventually ran out the winner 21 - 13

                                                               TUESDAY 28TH JULY

 
On Monday we had about 10 minutes rain, today was the complete opposite with only about 5 minutes rain free. In spite of the weather there was a good turn out of spectators, who were treated to some very good matches.

BOYD CUP

Tommy Doyle & Roy Savage (Aer Lingus) played Mick Keegan & John O'Sullivan (Blackrock) Aer Lingus got off to the best start with Roy completely out bowling his opposite lead John, First end a single to Aer Lingus followed by a three at the next end 4 - 0.  another single to A/L next end Roy lies shot, with John having three around the jack. Mick fires with his last - misses another single. next end the rock come into the game and score a three followed by a two 6 - 5 to A/L Next end Roy is sticking them on the jack possibly lying 3 or 4, John fires hits the head and cuts it down to 1. Tommy moves one of his bowls up and A/L have a bundle around the jack with only 1 Rock bowl in the head he fires to try and get the Rock bowl out and score a possible 5 but misses. Mick then plays a yard on to get into the head, gets a wick and trails the jack to lie shot, he immediately turns to Tommy and apologises. The rock now are ahead for the first time in the match 7 - 6. Over the next few ends the game is fairly even. Roy then lies three John too heavy. With 10 woods bowled A/L lie 5 - Mick draws second shot. Roy lies two at the next end and the head does not change. We have now reached to 14th end and Rock are ahead 12 - 10. A/L lying two on the 15th end. but Rock score a single. Next end Roy lies two, John gets second shot, A/L have 4 around the jack, Mick's last bowl comes in for shot. 14 - 11 to Rock. A single next end to Rock 15 - 11 at 17 ends. The 18th end saw Rock lying four after the leads had bowled, Tommy draws two shots, but Mick comes in and converts from two down to two up. 17 - 11 A/L score a two on the 20th end and now need a 4 to tie the match. Aer Lingus start well and are lying a few, the head is hit and the jack goes out to the side with the Rock lying to the right. Over on the left hand side the Rock have at least three bowls, and Tommy tries with his three bowls left to trail the jack over to them but was too narrow on each occasion. final score 18 - 13 to Blackrock.

The second match was between Tony Murphy and Wally Doyle of Bray & Aiden Hoey and Dominic Lloyd of St. James's Gate. First end Tony has two on the jack, Aiden comes in for shot, then Wally draws shot by bringing the jack back a few feet, Dominic fires - jack in the ditch - 2 the Gate. If this is the way the match is going to go we are in for a cracker.3 to the Gate next end leading 5 - 0. The match continues with some very good heads constantly changing. 10 - 6 to Gate. Wally draws  to lie 3. Dominic fires and just goes through the head now it is 10 - 9 to the Gate. over the next few ends The Gate score 10 shots to 5 in reply and at 14 ends the score is 20 - 14 to the Gate. 15th end Tony lies shot, Aiden knocks Tony's bowl back, Tony goes through the head with his next, Aiden rests Tony's bowl to lie, Tony brings the jack back to two of his own bowls  - now lying three. there is a gap right down the middle to those three bowls and Dominic fires with his first three, - two going to the left and one to the right, meanwhile Wally has put a bowl round the back, and also clipped one of his own bowls behind the jack, making the head smaller. Dominic plays his last bowl with a yard on, but just goes past the lying shots. 3 to Bray 20 - 17. 2 singles to bray brings the match to 20 - 19 at 17ends.Gate lying three Wally comes in for second, Dominic tries to edge out the Bray bowl to make a count but just misses 21 - 19 at 18ends. the 19th end saw the shot change with nearly every bowl, with the Gate picking up 3, 24 - 19 2 ends to go. Aiden's first wood clips the jack and goes into the ditch, Tony takes advantage and is lying 2, Dominic comes in for second. 24 - 20 playing the last end. Aiden comes in for shot, another bowl is knocked up and the Gate lie 2. With 4 bowls to go it is a measure for shot but Bray have all the back woods. The head does not change and Wally has last bowl. He fires and hits the jack cleanly, and both bowl and jack are heading for the ditch, Wally throws his arms up in triumph, only to suddenly see the jack clip a back bowl and go off the side of the rink - burnt end. The final end, bray appear to be lying but it is difficult to see who has the shot the head is so close, it looks like at least three to Bray, Wally plays a yard on which surprises some of the spectators, as it looks like there may be 4 to Bray, Dominic plays just short, Wally's last bowl is a bit heavy, and when the head is declared it is one to the Gate. So that was why Wally played a bit heavy there was a Gate bowl in among all the Bray bowls. 25 - 20 to the Gate

TYLER CUP

Derek Kells & Fiacra Tierney (Railway Union) played Aiden Kelly & Mike Brophy (Greystones) First end Mike fires with his last bowl to take out a RU bowl but it is a single to RU. Second end with Fiacra drawing shot and Derek another. 3 - 0 to RU. the heads go in favour of RU on the 4th end Mike fires and goes with the jack. Greystones on the board 7 - 1 to RU 5th end Greystones lie 2 mike goes a little heavy and knocks up one of his own bowls 7 - 4 to Grey. next 2 ends 1 to RU and 4 to Grey 8 all at 8 ends. over the next few ends RU pulled away and were 17 - 11 at 15 ends, Greystones scored a single followed by a 2 17 - 14 at 17 ends. Next end Grey are lying 3 but Derek comes in for shot. At the 20th end RU were 20 - 15 ahead. they scored a 3 to win the match 23 - 15.

The second match was between Harry Marshall & Maurice McCarthy (Rosslare) and Brendan Carroll & Tommy Byrne (St. James's Gate) This is the first time Rosslare have players in the Semi-Finals. Rosslare score a 4 in the first end then a 2 6 - 0 to Rosslare. Both Harry and Maurice are playing very well but the heads are very close. At 5 ends it is 8 - 2 to Rosslare. two 2s  to Rosslare and then the Gate get a single on the 8th end 12 - 3, over the next 8 ends Rosslare pick up 10 shot to 3 and are leading 22 - 6 at 16 ends - Game over everyone said, but no - that was the last time Rosslare would score in the match. the Gate came back brilliantly. a 5 on the 17th end  brings them to 22 - 11 19th end gate are lying 5 or 6 but Maurice cuts it down to three 22 - 14 a 2 on the 20th brings it to 22 -16 6 down playing the last, Unfortunately they could only pick up 2 and Rosslare are into their first final winning 22 - 18, but a great come back by the Gate pair.

BANK OF IRELAND INVESTMENT CUP (UNDER 18)

Adam Kells (Railway Union) played Andrew O'Keefe (Leinster). Adam started off the better with 2 in the first 3 in the second followed by a single, 4th end Adam is lying 2 Andrew draws the shot 6 inches behind the jack , but Adam draws a closer shot 7 - 0 to Adam. Adam continues to pick up shots with a single followed by a 2 and is now 10 - 0 ahead. Andrew picks up a 3 followed by a 2 then 2 singles 10 - 7. Singles exchanged over the next 2 ends. Adam lying the shot, Andrew trails the jack and stays with it 11 - 9. the next end was a very loose end the first of the match with Adam picking up a three with not a bowl within a yard of the jack. 14 - 9. Single to Adam in the next end. Andrew gets a2 after he trails the jack into the ditch 15 - 13. Adam picks up a single and Andrew replies with a pair 16 - 15. The next end proved to be the turning pint, Andrew picks up 4 with Adams nearest bowl 2 yards away. Andrew into the lead for the first time. 16 - 19 A single to Andrew 16 - 20. Adam sticks one on the jack Andrew fires and misses 17 - 20. This time Adam keeps the jack and is lying 2 Andrew draws the shot with his third, Adam puts a yard on and trails the jack to lie 1 Andrew fires but misses 18 -20. Adam lies 2 the next end, Andrew draws second, Adam can't improve and Andrew draws the shot 18 - 21 to Andrew. A great match and a credit to two young bowlers.

                                                              WEDNESDAY 29TH JULY

If we thought Tuesday's rain was bad, it was only a light shower compared to today. The reports on some of today's matches are not as detailed as I would like due to having to shelter from the rain and therefore not able to get a good view of all the matches.

BAIRD CUP

Arthur McMullen, Andrew O'Keefe, Pat Whelan (Leinster) played Steve Millane, John and Richard Leonard (St. James's Gate) 2 to Leinster first end followed by a single to Gate Next end Gate lying with 3 Leinster bowls in front of which one is tipped up for shot. 3 - 1 to Leinster. next end Gate lie 1 John trails the jack to lie 3 Andrew gets the shot bowl out and lies 1. Leinster draw 2 more and now lie 3. Richard tries to take shot wood out but only succeeds in moving it a little. Richard's last bowl picks up the jack but it moves sideways he save 2 5 - 1 to Leinster at 5 ends. Arthur lies 3 with Steve' 1 through the head and the other 2 short. Leinster pick up 4 at 7 ends the score is 12 - 1 to Leinster, who are completely outbowling the Gate at this time. Leinster lying shot again Richard trails the jack to lie 3 Pat takes out 1 Richard trails the jack again and picks up three. 12 - 4 to Leinster. 1 to Gate on the ninth end. the 10th end the head is very close, nobody can see who is lying and no one is firing, Richard's last bowl is a perfect weight and falls in. Measure! Andrew starts to take out the bowls 1, 2, 3, 4, umpire is called in to measure 5th shot result 5 to Gate now the score is 12 - 10 at 10 ends and we have a match on. Steve at last is starting to bowl. gate lie 3 but Leinster convert to 2 up 14 - 10. the heads are now very close, but the rain is absolutely bucketing down. Gate pick up 3 after 13 ends the score is all square at 14 all. Leinster have scored 3 shots to the Gate's 13 in the last 6 ends. at 15 ends it is 15 - 16 to the Gate. the next end Richard draws into a very tight head and picks up 4 15 - 20 to the Gate with 2 ends to go 17th end Leinster are lying 2 but Richard knocks up one of his own bowls with controlled weight and gets the shot. 15 - 21 playing the last. The Gate pick up 2 and win the match 23 - 15.

Tony Murphy, Tom Murphy, Wally Doyle (Bray) played Ronan Collins Peter Osman, John Kavanagh (Kenilworth) After 2 ends Bray are up 3 - 1 Kenilworth pick up a 4, 3 - 5 to KW. Ronan sticks one on the jack that stays there in spite of Wally touching it 3 - 6 to KW. at 5 ends it was 4 - 6 to KW. bray score 2 singles that Wally picks up a 4 10 - 6 to Bray at 8 ends. KW pick up a single. Next end is very close, this rink appears to have the closest heads of all the rinks tonight. 2 to Bray as Wally decides it was too risky to play his last bowl Bray lead 12 - 7. Tony Murphy is playing excellent leading bowls, where as Ronan is now under pressure each end. a single followed by 2 to Bray and a single to KW brings the score to 15 - 8 1 to KW 15 - 9. at 14 ends. Bray are lying and John has to fire with his three bowls to try and cut it down to no avail 18 - 9 a single to KW 18 - 10. 17th end Bray are lying 4 KW firing and only succeed in moving the head in favour of Bray, John's last wood sails past the head and Bray pick up 5. 23 - 10 final score, But it was actually a closer game that the final score sugests.

BLI CUP

Frank Dignam, Michael Fitzsimmons, Mark O'Looney (Meath) played Fiacra Tierney, Adam Kells, Derek Kells(Railway Union). at 5 ends the score was 5 -2 to Meath then at 10 ends 8 - 12 to RU and at 15 ends 13 - 15 to RU. Playing the last end with the score at 14 - 16 to RU with RU lying at leat 2 shots a yard in front of the Jack. Mark's first bowl is a foot behind the jack  Derek is too long, Mark draws another, Derek is short, Mark draws a third about 2 feet past the jack and to the side. Derek has last bowl and appears to have the right weight this time, but he is just a fraction wide. 3 to Meath who win 17 - 16

Gerry Gibson, Quentin Teggin, John Lee (Bank of Ireland) played John Dixon, Joe Fitzsimmons, John Faulkner (Meath) 7 - 3 to Bank at 5 ends 10 all at 10 ends 13 - 14 to Meath at 15 ends Bank get the shot at the 16th end 16 all Meath get the shot at the 17th end to be  1 ahead. Last end Gerry and Quentin between them have three stitched on the jack with one bowl just out to the side jack high (or jack level if you like) John  F. has 2 attempts to hit the head and misses, where John L. is just trying to cover the back. With his last bowl John F. has perfect connection and burns the end. They decide to play back down again. this time it is a complete reversal of the situation with Meath lying three just in an arc beside the jack. John is near with his first but just is too narrow, his second is perfect, and glides off the shot bowl to lie shot in front of the jack. John F. with his last bowl clips the shot bowl out to lie shot. Now John L. has to try and play the same shot as before, but unfortunately he is too narrow. 16 - 14 to Meath.

BANK OF IRELAND INVESTMENT CUP (UNDER 18)

John Byrne (Crumlin) played Justin Roux (St. James's Gate). Justin got off to a good start leading 6 - 1 John picked up an easy 4 on the next end 6- 5. John is again lying 4 and Justin cuts it down to 3. 6 -8 to John. a 2 to John followed by a single to Justin bring s the 7 - 10, suddenly John stretches in to a convincing lead and leads 19 - 8, he picks up another single and now only needs 1 shot. Justin lies 2 John puts t 3 past the jack and his last is short 20 -10 John lies game next end, but Justin trails the jack to lie 2 and then draws another 20 - 13. John sticks 1 on the jack then draws another, Justin is too short with his first 3 John puts one behind. Justin fires and misses, 21 - 13 to John.

Let us hope the weather is fine for tomorrow, if the forecast is anything to go by it should be. there is some interesting matches in prospect, with the Cork team competing against Bray and the Smyth family with Andrew O'Keefe playing against Pat Coffey of the Gate in the Sixsmith.

                                                                         THURSDAY 30TH JULY

Today we were honoured by the presence of Jim Moore, President of The Irish Bowling Association, who had travelled down from the City of Derry to attend our championships. He was presented to the players, officials and spectators by our President Richard Neilson.  Jim gave a short speech before the matches commenced, saying he was delighted to be in Dublin. and wished all the players well in their matches.

Due to the unavailability of one of the umpires, I ended up marking the Railway Union Cup. So I was unable to keep an eye on the other matches taking place. so will just give a brief synopsis.

RAILWAY UNION CUP

John Byrne & Robert Maher both from Crumlin played this match. John had already qualified for the final of the under 18, so this match was eagerly awaited. John started off the better scoring a pair and a single. Robert came back the next 2 ends with 2 singles 3 - 2 to John, a single from John followed by a 2 from Robert brought the scores level the standard of bowling was very good  a 2 and a single put John back in the lead 7 - 4. The next end Robert scored a 3 scores level again. 2 singles to John 9 - 7, Was Robert ever going to get ahead. The following end, with Robert lying 3 John comes in for 2nd, Robert takes him out and scores a 4. At last Robert is ahead 9 - 11 a 3 to Robert on the next end consolidates his lead 9 - 14. 2 singles each  on the next 4 ends made the score 11 - 16 to Robert. They had now played 17 ends. John scores a 2 13 - 16 to Robert, with both bowlers playing some wonderful shots this match could go on for some time yet. I spoke too soon, a 2 and a single to Robert puts him in the driving seat 19 - 13. Robert only needed one more end to score the 2 he needed to progress to the final against Mark O'Looney from Meath. 13 - 21. John still has one more chance in the under 18 Final against Andrew O'Keefe of Leinster.

SIXSMITH CUP

The first match was between St. James's Gate Pat Coffee, Joe Dunne, David Edwards and Gerry Rutledge, and Leinster, Andrew O'Keefe, Tommy, Nicky, & Paul Smyth. the match started with Leinster surging into an early lead with a 2 , a 4 and a single to lead 0 - 7. The Gate replied with 2 singles and a 3  5 - 7 after 6 ends on the 7th end Leinster scored a 2 5 - 9 to Leinster. Then the Gate started to pull away. With cries of "Come on the Gate" Leinster scored 2 on the 11th end which was their only shots until the 16th end, bring their score to 12, but the Gate had scored 16 shots 21 - 12 after 16 ends. But Leinster did not throw in the towel and over the next  5 ends they picked up  3 pairs and 2 singles the match was now delicately poised at 21 - 19 going into the last end. Leinster where lying 2 in a very tight head, Gerry with his third bowl drew second shot, Paul still had 2 bowls to play, his first bowl was just a bit too narrow, Gerry's last bowl did not change anything, Now all Paul had to do was to play a few feet on, to push Leinster's bowl onto Gerry's and lie 3 for the game - Sounds very easy, but under this pressure it is a different game, Paul releases his bowl, the ground is silent, it looks right on course, but just falls short of the target, A huge sigh of relief from the Gate boys and they win out in the end 21 - 20.

The second match saw history being created, when the team from the Cork Club I.C.I.C.Y.M.A., took on the home club Bray This is the first time that Cork have reached the Semi- finals of a senior BLI Competition. Cork' s team was made up of father and son Con & Connor Middleton, Keith Shellard (Son of the legendary Ronnie) and skipped by Frank Corkery, Bray's team was lead by Past President Roddy O'Leary, Steve Morris, John Dundon (the green keeper) and our current President Richard Nielson. Bray got off to the mark first scoring 2 singles, this was followed by three singles to Cork. A single to Bray on the 6th end brought the score to 3 all. This looked like it was going to be a tight match. Cork scored 3 on the next end followed by a single and a pair 9 - 3 to Cork. Bray replied with a single on the 10th end 9 - 4 to Cork. Unfortunately Bray did not score another shot. It was not that they were playing badly, they just were out bowled, Connor Middleton was playing very well and Keith Shellard was the man of the match in my opinion, but Frank did his bit as well and was able to turn heads around when it was against him. The final score after 19 ends was 22 - 4. Congratulations to Cork for reaching the final on their first attempt.

MECREDY CUP

The first semi was between Railway Union, A. Kells, F. Tierney, T. Kennelly (Sub) and Derek Kells and the home team Bray, B. Dodd, E. Kelly, J. O'Neill and Finbar O'Sullivan. this match turned out to be very one-sided RU scored 2 in the first end followed by a single to Bray. The next 2 ends RU scored 2 singles and after 7 ends had stormed into  16 - 1 lead Bray scored a single on the 8th end and a 2 on the 10th by this time the score was 19 - 4 in favour of RU. Over the next 3 ends RU scored 2 singles and a 6. 3 to bray on the 14th end followed by a f 4 to RU 15 ends the score was now 31 - 7 Bray scored 2 more singles and in reply RU a 4 and a single. 19 ends they shook hands 36 - 9 to RU.

The second match was between the 2 Meath teams, M. Lynch, M. Fitzsimmons, B. O'Keefe & Ricky Byrne and J. Dixon, J. Faulkner Joe Fitzsimons & Mark O'Looney (Playing in his third Semi) This match was a much tighter match than the other Mecredy. Each team matching each other shot for shot. At 9 ends the score was 8 all the next 4 ends saw Ricky score 6 shots with 4 in reply by Mark. 15 ends 14 - 12Mark followed this up with another 2 14 all. 17th end Ricky scored 1 a 2 which was the last shot they would score with Mark  scoring 2 singles a 3 and a single to win the match 20 - 16

                                                                                      FINALS

                                                                             FRIDAY 31st JULY

 For the first time only 2 matches would be played tonight due to doubling up this means that tomorrow we will see 8 finals 3 in the morning and 5 in the afternoon Tonight we will see the Sixsmith & BLI Cup

SIXSMITH CUP FINAL

St James's Gate v Cork: - Gate Pat Coffee, Joe Dunne, David Edwards and Gerry Rutledge, and Cork Con & Connor Middleton, Keith Shellard and Frank Corkery. the first 2 ends Gate scored a 2 and a 4, in reply Cork score 1 3  6 - 2 to the Gate. 1 to Gate next end. Connor lies 1 and draws another, Keith puts 1 behind Davy draws shot beside the jack Frank trails the jack to lie 3 Gerry fires and goes right through the middle of the head with out touching anything. 7 - 5 to Gate a t 5ends.Gate lie t 3 Connor draws 2nd Joe takes jack back, Keith draws shot, Davy  draws near, Frank puts in a blocker Gerry hits up a bowl, umpire called to measure - shot to Gate. 8 - 5 to Gate. Gate score 2 singles and a 3 13 - 5 to Gate. 9th end Connor trails jack Keith * Frank each draw another. Gerry fires and misses 13 - 8 2 shots to Cork next end sees them move to within 3 shots of the Gate 13 - 8. Are the Gate going to get stuck on the "graveyard"? It is raining quite heavy now. Joe sticks 2 on the jack. With Thursday being the only day without rain the green has got quite heavy and you can see the players have to really push their bowls. Keith comes up heavy and gets the jack back to lie. Davy is 2 yards short, Gerry draws the sot with his first and repeats it with his second 2 more to the Gate. Next end Frank has to fire and gets the shot but Gerry converts it 1 Frank fires and gets second shot 16 - 12 at 12 ends. At 15 ends the Gate have moved out to 19 - 11 ahead. A 3 to the Gate at the next end. 17th End the Gate lying Frank brings the jack back. Now there are 4 Cork bowls just short of the jack but the Gate still lie. The head is too dangerous for the Gate So Gerry declares the head. 23 - 11 on the 18th end Gate score another 24 - 11 and Cork decide to concede. A very brace effort by the Cork team, but the better team won on the night.

BLI CUP FINAL

Two Meath teams compete in this final Frank Dignam, Michael Fitzsimmons, Mark O'Looney against John Dixon, Joe Fitzsimmons, John Faulkner. 3 to mark on the 1st end followed by a single to John, then a single to Mark 4 - 1. another 3 to Mark and at 5 ends the score was 8 - 2 to Mark. The heads are quite loose in this match is probably down to the incessant rain we have had all evening. Mark's team continue to score and go ahead 13 - 2. Next end is a much better head and john gets the shot at 10 ends the score is 13 - 4 to Mark. the next few end are quite even with mark scoring 7 shots to John's 6 20 - 10 at 15 ends. With only three ends to go it is an uphill battle for John's team, Mark scores a single and a 2 in reply John could only manage a single Final score 23 - 11 to Mark.

                                                                      SATURDAY 1st AUGUST

At last we have some sunshine. it is the start of 8 finals today, and the weather forecast is not good, but so far you would think the forecasters have got it wrong, let's hope this stays like this for the rest of the day.

BANK OF IRELAND INVESTMENT CUP (UNDER 18) FINAL

Andrew O'Keefe (Leinster) and John Byrne (Crumlin) fought this battle, and what a battle it turned out to be. these two started off very well. exchanging shots, excellent weight, nearly every end ends in a measure. we will move on to the middle of the match with John leading 10 -11 Andrew having won the last end - he gives the jack away - John scores 2  10 - 13 John lies 3 next end Andrew is through the head, John draws a 4th Andrew's fourth bowl just passes the jack and it is 4 to John 10 - 17 Andrew picks up an easy 3 next end 13 - 17. Andrew gives the jack away again John draws 2 Andrew draws shot, John with his last bowl draws a better shot jack high. Andrew fires knocks John's bowl out but moves the jack sideways still 1 to John 13 - 18. next end John picks up 2 13 - 20. Andrew scores a single next end 14 - 20 and decides to keep the jack this time He bowls a long jack. he is 4 feet from the ditch with his first bowl,  John draws 18" from the jack Andrew draws shot 6" past the jack, John's last bowl clips Andrew's bowl but does not move it far enough. 1 to Andrew. 15 - 20. Andrew gives jack away, after 6 bowls have been bowled it looks like Andrew is holding. John's last bowl is definitely the shot now. Andrew draws to the jack and it is very close. It is a measure for shot. John gets it 15 - 21 to John. these two young bowlers are a credit to the game, and John is a very worthy winner who I am sure will do very well up in the National Championships in the City of Derry on the 11th & 12th September.

NASSAU CUP FINAL

Martin Murray (Bray) played Frank Dignam (Meath) Frank pulled into an early lead leading 9 - 1. Martin picks up a single at the next 2 ends to bring the score to 9 - 3. Martin lies the shot next end draws a 2nd, Frank's last bowl comes in for 2nd. 9 - 4 next end a wick from Frank's second bowl comes in for shot and remains there. 10 - 4. a 2 followed by a 3 to Frank puts him 15 - 4 ahead.. Frank picks up 2 the next end 17 - 4. Frank's first bowl is doing all the damage every end. Martin tries to pick it off but fails every time. This end the rolls are reversed Martin sticks one on the jack and holds it 17 - 5. Martin gives the jack away!! you would think that he would hold onto the jack seeing that Frank was winning all the ends before. Martin picks up a 4. Well he was obviously right to give the jack away 17 - 9. Martin is 6" from the jack. Frank takes the jack back and lies. Martin follows suit and draws a second 17 - 11 another pair and a single brings martin to 17 - 14. he also wins the following end 17 - 15 What a comeback! Frank lies 2 next end Martin has best back, fires and misses 19 - 15 1 to Martin next end 19 - 16. However frank scores the 2 he needs on the next end and wins 21 - 16.

MECREDY CUP FINAL

Railway Union A. Kells, F. Tierney, T. Kennelly (Sub) and Derek Kells V Meath J. Dixon, J. Faulkner Joe Fitzsimons & Mark O'Looney. After the 2nd end RU lead 3 - 1 next end 4 against RU Derek fires and burns the end. RU win the replayed and and the next 5 - 1 to RU.  Meat pick up 3  5 - 4.  it then moves on to 5 - 5. All the heads are fairly tight and RU creep ahead, 8 - 5 heads are changing with nearly every bowl. 10 - 7 to RU. I did not see much more of this match, but Meath scored another 7 shots to RU's 6 Winners Railway Union 16 - 14.

                                                        AFTERNOON SESSION

Thankfully the forecast for rain was completely wrong and we have a beautiful afternoon. The ground is filling up for the final with two exciting singles in prospect starting at 3.00pm There are over 200 spectators lining the green, in what should be a feast of bowling.

BOYD CUP FINAL

John O'Sullivan & Mick Keegan (Blackrock) met Aiden Hoey & Dominic Lloyd (St . James' s Gate) in this final Rock score a single in the first end and are lying shot in the second, The Gate have 4 bowls just behind the jack, Dominic draws the shot - another foot on his bowl and he would have trailed the jack for 5, Next end Rock lying 3 but Dominic is wide with his last bowl.. Single to Rock next end. Score moves to 7 - 2 at 5 ends. next 2 ends a single each followed by a 2 for the Rock. 10 - 4 at 10 ends. These heads are very close - Rock pick up another 3 followed by a single to Gate. Aiden brings the mat right out to try and change things, but bowls the jack short, John reverts back to their favourite length. Blackrock go further ahead and it is 15 - 5 at 13 ends. Another 2 to the Rock 17 - 5. Next end Dominic fires twice, knocks the jack back to the Rock bowls 2 to the Rock 19 - 5 15 ends. 2 pairs to the Gate bring the score to 19 - 9 at 17 ends. a single each next 2 ends 20 - 10 2 ends to play. John sticks one on the jack , Mick draws another, Dominic fires with all four bowls and misses 22 - 10 to the Rock at 20 ends and they shake hands.

BAIRD CUP FINAL

Steve Millane, John and Richard Leonard (St. James's Gate) Played Tony Murphy, Tom Murphy, Wally Doyle (Bray) The match starts with Bray lying shot, Richard comes into a very tight head and rests out the Bray bowl 1 to Gate. Gate lie 3 next end Wally is short Richard draws another 4 to Gate. Bray get on the board after 4 ends 7 - 1 to Gate. 2 ends later gate lie 5 Tom, draws the shot Richard comes in with a perfect bowl to trail the jack 4 to Gate. next end gate are down a few Richard fires and gets the jack 1 to gate 13 - 2. the game continues with the Gate dominating the game, and Bray finally concede at 19 - 5

RAILWAY UNION CUP FINAL

Robert Maher (Crumlin) played Mark O'Looney (Meath) Mark is in his 3rd final of the weekend having won 1 and lost 1, Robert is hoping to repeat last year's win when he won the under 25 for the first time. At 3 all Robert comes in for 3rd shot Mark draws another 6 - 3 to Mark. 2 to Robert next end 6 - 5 Mark gets a 2 8 - 5.Mark holds 3 at the next end and Robert's last bowl sails past the head another 3 to Mark 11 - 6 Mark lying shot Robert 3 yards short with his first Mark draws another, Robert short and wide with his second, but draws shot with his 3rd and adds a 2nd the score moves on to 12 - 8 to Mark. Next end Robert has three around the jack, Mark draws in and rests just inside the shot bowl to get the shot 13 - 8. Robert short with his first 2 Mark lies 2 Robert draws shot, but Mark again draws inside Robert's bowl for shot 14 - 8 Next end was a very loose head and Mark picks up an easy single 15 - 8 Next end Robert is lying 2 Mark glides off Robert's bowl and lies shot 16 - 8. Robert is 2 down next end and draws up short with his last. 18 - 8 to Mark. Mark throws a long jack Robert is first on the jack and Mark can't improve 18 - 9. Robert is long with his first, Mark is Jack high Robert is short Mark draws another Robert comes in for 2nd 19 - 9 Mark stitches one on the jack, Robert touches the jack but slips past 2 feet. Robert has now got 2 close seconds, but Mark draws another, and is lying game, Robert's last bowl rests out the shot bowl. 19 - 10 Robert gives the jack away, in a close head Robert is lying 2 and draws a 3rd 19 - 13. He gives the jack away again, Mark draws 3" behind the jack, Robert's first 2 bowls are short, Mark draws 2 more shots to lie 3, Robert draws in for shot. 19 - 14 That's twice Mark has been lying game. Mark picks up a single next end 20 - 14 Mark 1 foot behind jack Robert draws shot 20 - 15next end mark is 2 feet short, Robert 2 yards through, Mark draws 1 jack high, Robert knocks up Mark's wood, Mark now lies 2 Mark needs to put 1 behind because it is wide head to hit, Which he does. Robert fires and misses but takes out mark's back wood. Mark puts one a yard behind. Robert fires and gets the 2 bowls out clean to lie 1. 20 - 16. a single to Robert next end 20 - 17 next end Robert is lying 2 but short with his 3rd, Mark's last bowl draws second but Robert beats that to pick up 2. 20 - 19 Mark is a yard short, Robert has a toucher beside the jack, Mark is a foot through, Mark draws shot with his third and is lying game for the fourth time, Robert fires with his third and the jack ends up a foot from the ditch, with the nearest bowl being Robert's 3 yards from the jack. Mark needs to get at least second shot here as Robert still has a bowl to come. he bowls, But calamity! he is short. Robert now has at least 5 yards to draw a second. He bowls and his bowl rolls down the green, with everyone watching, including Mark with bated breath,, it reaches the head, passes the head, and still it rolls on, past his own bowl heading now for the jack or ditch! will it stop in time. YES! it does, 3 inches from the jack Game to Robert. 20 - 21 It took 27 ends to find the winner of this match. One must feel sorry for Mark who bowled very well throughout the whole match as indeed did Robert but you have to admire the competitive and fighting spirit of Robert to come back and win.

TYLER CUP FINAL

This match was between Derek Kells & Fiacra Tierney (Railway Union) and for the first time in a BLI championship Rosslare have a team in the finals Harry Marshall & Maurice McCarthy. Derek and Fiacra, had already won the Mecredy in the morning which did not finish until 1.45pm, so this match was late starting. I only saw a few of the early ends in this match. it was close to start off with and at 5 ends it was 4 - 2 to RU. Rosslare pick up a 2 in the 6th end 4 all The match moves on with RU picking up 5 shots to 1. 9 - 5 to RU. At 13 ends it was getting closer 12 - 10 to RU. a single each to bring the score to 13 - 11 at 15 ends. Rosslare lie 2 Derek takes out the shot bowls to lie 1 16 - 11. over the next few ends Rosslare come back into it and at the 19th end 17 - 16 to RU and with some very good bowling by both teams Rosslare are lying 2 Maurice decides to put one behind but he is far too wide and heavy, and is yards away from the head. Derek fires, and when the dust has settled the jack ends up with Maurice's back bowl that everyone thought was no use at all! that's bowls for you! 17 all playing the last. Harry bowls 2 very good bowls to lie 2 Fiacra comes in and lies second just to the right and lying on Harry's bowl, a lot of discussion now takes place between the RU pair, they have to be careful as RU have a bowl to the left but Rosslare have three bowls to the right behind the jack, if they are too heavy they could give away a count. eventually Derek bowls but he is  a bit short but has blocked up the hand that Maurice wanted to play - more discussion, about 3 minutes with Maurice changing his mind half a dozen times. In the end he puts one round the back. this isn't going to be a repeat of the last end is it? Derek fires, but is too narrow and misses the head, Maurice and Harry jump for joy - Winners at their first appearance at the finals 18 - 17

MARPER CUP FINAL

Now we come to the blue riband of the BLI Championships The Senior Singles. Richard Darcy (CYM) and Paul Smyth (Leinster) twice a winner of this before in 1976 and 1981. 1st end 3 to Paul, Paul lies 2 Richard comes in for shot. 3 -1 Paul lie 2 with a measure for shot 5 - 1 to Paul. a single to Richard in the next end. Richard picks up a 4 at the next to bring the scores to 5 - 6. Paul lies 2 Richard brings jack back to lie shot Paul takes out the shot bowl to lie 3 8 - 6 to Paul. Next end Richard lies Paul takes him out, Richard is too heavy with his next bowl and it is Paul's turn to pick up a 4. He follows this with a single now it is 13 - 6 to Paul. Paul sticks one on the jack, adds another, Richard draws shot Paul knocks up one of Richard's bowls 13 - 8 to Paul. Richard draws 3 shots Paul is short with his first three, but draws shot with his last. 14 - 8 Moving on with the score now 15 - 9 to Paul Richard is lying 2 - Paul draws the shot. Richard takes out Paul's bowl and picks up 2 15 - 11. 1 to Paul next end. Paul draws shot , Richard rests out shot bowl and lies 2 16 - 13 Next end Richard picks up another 4 - most unusual in a match of this high standard for 3 fours to be scored. that puts Richard ahead for the first time 16 - 17. With the shot against him Paul brings the jack into the ditch 17 all. a single each over the next 2 ends 18 - 18. Paul lies 1 then draws a 2nd and 3rd Richard plays heavy and splits them to lie shot 18 - 19 single to Paul next end 19 all. Paul is lying game next end with 2 on the jack, Richard plays a yard on, but misses the head 21 - 19 to Paul who has waited 28 years for his third success at this title.

So finishes the 2009 Championships I would like to wish every success to the senior winners who will be competing in the National Championships along with our Under 18 and under 25 winners. I would also like to thank the President Richard Nielson and all the players of Bray bowling club who helped to run the championships and of course the ladies who provided the tea and sandwiches (and cakes baked by Richard's wife. Fran) every day, and for the meal on Saturday night. I hope you have enjoyed this amateur report on the matches, if I have made mistakes, I apologise, as it is difficult to follow each and every match.

B. C. M. 3rd August 2009

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