On Sunday 14th August, 30 players took part in the Club’s latest competition, The Championship Cup. This was a pleasing turnout considering the weather conditions an hour or so before the start.
In the top half of the draw, Mark Rowlinson came through close encounters with Leo Tobin (21-18) and Alan Bond (21-16) to reach the quarter-finals. These were impressive wins as Mark was conceding a handicap of four against each opponent. In the quarter-final, Mark faced the experienced Hesketh Arms player, Margaret Langley, but continued his good form to win through to the semi-final. His semi-final opponent was the winner of this season’s Coronation Cup, Mike Dunlop. Mike had reached the semi-final with wins against John McGurk (21-19), Richard Rawcliffe (21-11) and John Stennett (21-10). In the semi-final, Mike started well but it was Mark who eventually went through to the final with a 21-16 win.
In the bottom half of the draw, Jim Finnimore was in fine form and cruised through to the semi-final where his opponent was George Hitchmough, who had survived a close 1st Round match against one of the Club’s new members Barry Coates, just edging home 21-20. Jim continued to play well in the semi-final, using a round peg mark on the far side of the green and it was Jim who reached the final with a 21-11 success.
Jim carried his good form into the final against Mark, winning 8 of the first 9 ends to establish a 12-4 lead. This start was to prove decisive and despite Mark threatening to get back in the game with a couple of 2s, it was to be Jim’s day, winning one end by beating a 6″ bowl with a side toucher. Having played well throughout the afternoon and having come close in other competitions, Jim was a worthy winner of The Championship Cup, the final score being 21-9.
It was pleasing to see several new members taking part in this event. However, special mention must go to Jim Halsall for reaching the quarter-finals in his first competition, enjoying good wins against experienced opponents.
The final competition of the season, The President’s Cup, will be held next Sunday 21st August, starting at 1.00pm