89th Eastbourne Open Bowls Tournament – The Beginning (Eastbourne Herald)
In glorious sunshine at Gildredge Park BC, the Mayor of Eastbourne (Cllr. Gill Mattock) welcomed players and supporters to the 89th running of the Eastbourne Open Bowls Tournament – rated 5 star by Bowls England. Madam Mayor took part in the annual challenge against sponsor Neil Kirby (Langham Hotel) emerging victorious with a shot many of the watching competitors would have been delighted to have delivered. Established in 1923, the Open is played on greens around the town and attracts many visitors each year. The tournament commences with the Mens Singles, which this year attracted over 100 competitors in a very high quality field. Six former Champions were amongst the competitors but after two rounds only three remained – David Willis (Bexhill BC) , Francois Celada (Eastbourne BC) and Martin Biggleston (Unattached). Last year’s winner Andrew Albon was beaten by Francois, who meets the finalist from last year, Carl Dyer (Sidley Martlets BC) in the third round. In the Pairs, previous winners Roger Cable with Bill Fuller (Eastbourne BC) and Chris Antiss (Knighton Victoria BC) with Andy Browning (Gildredge Park BC) have progressed through to the third round. Finals of the six competitions comprising the event take place at Gildredge Park BC on Friday commencing 10am.
89th Eastbourne Open Bowls Tournament – The Week
Sunday
The Tournament opens with the Worshipful The Mayor of Eastbourne Cllr Gill Mattock welcoming visitors at Headquarters (Gildredge Park BC) in glorious sunshine. Madam Mayor then took part in the now established two bowl challenge against Sole Tournament Sponsor Neil Kirby (Langham Hotel). Following last year’s success Neil was confident but it was Madam Mayor who emerged victorious – gaining a donation of £50 from Neil towards ‘Wayfinder Woman’ and ‘Memory Lane’ her elected Charities.
Tournament play on Sunday commenced in the morning with the Mens Singles – which this year attracted over 100 entries. With entries split into four sections play took place at Gildredge Park BC, Eastbourne BC, Hampden Park BC and the Parade BC simultaneously. Third round play commences Tuesday morning.
In Section A (nicknamed by players ‘the group of death’) players found the greens at Parade ‘tricky’ but this did not detract from some fine competition. For the local players, 2015 finalist Robert Ramsden (Gildredge Park BC) progressed to the second round but was then soundly beaten by Andy Stanley (Eastbourne BC) 21-9. Neil Pierce (Eastbourne BC) went out to 2014 Champion David Willis (Bexhill BC) in the first round 21-20 and David then progressed beating Roger Cavie (Parade BC) 21-12. Duncan Pickering (Gildredge Park BC) put out 2016 Champion Charles Wright (Spartan & Lakeside BC) 21-20 but then fell to Under 25 England International Rob Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnham BC) in the second round 21-17. In a group where four games finished 21-20 Rob had earlier put out three times Champion David Richardson (Downsmen BC). Alan Glenister (Hampden Park BC) progressed through the first round against John Dixon (Southey BC) 21-10 but fell at the second round to last year’s finalist Carl Dyer (Sidley Martlets BC) 21-19. Carl had beaten new entrant Denzil Ashcroft (Aylesbury Town) 21-7 in the first round. 2006 Champion Francois Celada (Eastbourne BC) in seemingly awesome form progressed to the third round beating David Bibby (Preston BC) 21-10 and defending Champion Andrew Albon 21-11 in the second round. Adrian Wainwright (Uckfield BC) progressed to the third round after victories over Chris Surman (White Rock BC) 21-12 and regular visitor from Leicestershire Chris Antiss (Knighton Victoria BC) 21-19. Former Gildredge Park player Ted Vidler (Brentwood BC) beat ever younger looking octogenarian Martin Mapp (Marden BC) 21-14 and Chris Webley (Gullivers BC) received walk overs to the third round.
In Section B, played at Hampden Park BC, 2011 finalist Gerry Vincent (Chessington BC) started his campaign well beating Michael Young (Bexhill BC) 21-10 but was destroyed 21-0 in the second round by an in-form Phil Harrod (Bexhill BC). Phil had beaten Tony Edwards (Caterham BC) 21-7 in the first round. Stalwart supporter Jim Baxter (Gildredge Park BC), finalist in 2001, went out in the first round 21-15 to Kevin Hilton (Gullivers BC) and Kevin then went out in the second round to Derek Wells (Hampden Park BC) 21-20. Derek had earlier beaten the up and coming Jason Walter (Spartan & Lakeside BC) 21-16 in the first round. Eastbourne BC player Mike Dooley progressed to the third round courtesy of victories over Alan Green (Aylesbury Town BC) 21-15 and Ken Raynor (St Margarets BC) 21-16. Ken had earlier beaten Bernie Argent (Larson BC) 21-2. Mick Rew (Deanlands BC) also went through to the third round courtesy of victories over Barry Kenward (Eastbourne BC) 21-16 and Derek Southouse (Herstmonceux BC) 21-11. Another Eastbourne BC casualty was Rod Addison who fell 21-9 to Colin Hall (Bexhill BC). Rod Wheeler (Weston BC) progressed at the expense of Ian Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnham BC) 21-13 and Bob Kenney (Knighton Victoria BC) went through against Lee Oliver (U/A) 21-11. The final place in the third round was taken by Graham Bridges (Grosvenor BC) who beat Patrick Urben (Uckfield BC) 21-10.
Section C was played at Gildredge Park BC. It proved a graveyard for local players with only Vince Smith (U/A) courtesy of two walk-overs and Mike Taylor (Eastbourne BC) progressing to the third round. Mike had beaten Leicestershire County bowler Les Jinks (Knighton Victoria BC) 21-15. Simon Perry (Eastbourne BC) had beaten Richard Denyer (Parade BC) 21-9 but fell in the second round to Adam Harding (West Wimbledon BC) 21-16. David Payne (Herstmonceux BC) beat Jim Stewart (Parade BC) 21-11 and then progressed beating David Holmes (Wrotham BC). Stuart Burrell (Northiam BC) beat David Barber (Bexhill BC) 21-8 in the first round and Paul Rogers (Aylesbury Town BC) 21-11 in the second. Frank Russell also progressed accounting for Ian Bratthammer (Gildredge Park BC) 21-8 and John Marshall (West Wimbledon BC) 21-13. John had earlier beaten Ian Ollerenshaw (Gullivers BC) 21-16. Phil Wade (Spartan & Lakeside BC) fell to Martin Pelosi – 2018 Sussex County Unbadged Singles Champion – (Lindfield BC) 21-9 and Martin also accounted for Trevor Pearce (Spartan & Lakeside BC) 21-18 in the second round. Trevor had earlier beaten 2007 finalist Andy Browning (Gildredge Park BC) 21-10.
Section D took place primarily at Eastbourne BC. Three local players made it through to the third round – Mike Crowhurst and Ron Fenner (both Hampden Park BC), and 2008 Champion Martin Biggleston (U/A).
In a tight group that featured another four 21-20 matches, Mike beat David Pocock (Eastbourne BC) 21-16, each having had byes in the first round. Mike meets David Corbett (The Grove BC) in the third round, David having had a bye in the first and a walkover in the second. Ron and his opponent Cyril Berrill (St Margarets BC) also had a first round bye, Ron progressing courtesy of a 21-19 victory. Martin met George Murray (Gildredge Park BC) and after looking to be heading to defeat staged a remarkable comeback to win 21-19. Popular local Ken Sprange (Motcombe Gardens BC) fought a hard match against Aylesbury Town BC visitor Robert Grimes, winning 21-20 but went out in the second round to Mark Harding (Cheam BC) 21-16. Jack Till (Spartan & Lakeside BC) beat clubmate Keith Barber 21-20 in the first round and progressed beating Alan Fleming (Bexhill BC) 21-15 in the second. Alan Rowden (Polegrove BC) beat regular visitor Joe Cornelius (West Wimbledon BC) 21-17 in the first round but was then beaten by Rob Hunt (Bearsted & Thurnham BC) 21-19 in the second round. Rob had earlier accounted for Steve Parkin (Gullivers BC) 21-8. On rinks 11 and 12 at Eastbourne BC both first round matches finished 21-20 with Phil Saunders (Spartan & Lakeside BC) beating Grant Aldridge (Poplar BC) and Brian Henty (Crouch BC) beating Maurice Goldacre (Bearsted & Thurnhaam BC). In the second round Phil beat Brian 21-11.
Ladies Pairs
The first games in the Ladies Pairs took place in the afternoon, with the Parade BC duo of Julia Savin and Cathy Greenwood featuring in a high scoring game against Mary Smith and Jean Akehurst (Hellingly BC) which was won by the Parade team 29-23. Ladies Tournament Representative Annie-France Jackson (Eastbourne BC) teamed up with Gill Henty (Crouch BC) to play the Eastbourne BC duo of Tracey Jenner and Louise Kenward. It was Tracey and Louise who triumphed 25-14. The other match played featured 2006 winner Evelyn Goldsmith (Gildredge Park BC) and former club mate (2008 winner) Joan Jones now of Swansea. They played regular visitor Gwen Burke (Cliftonville BC) and Elaine Connor (Royal Sovereign BC). It was the evergreen duo of Joan and Evelyn who emerged victorious 20-10. The second round commences Tuesday afternoon.
Mens Triples
The evening saw the Preliminary round of the heavily oversubscribed Mens Triples take place at Eastbourne BC, with some First Round matches played at Hampden Park BC and Parade BC. Defending Champions Martin Pelosi (Lindfield BC) and Chris Surman (White Rock BC), this year playing with Adam Oakman (White Rock BC), made it through to the second round as did, courtesy of a walk-over, last year’s finalists Chris Antiss (Knighton Victoria BC) with Gildredge Park BC duo Andy Browning and Andrew Albon.
Monday
Once again the sun was shining brightly as play got underway with the Ladies’ Singles at Hampden Park BC and Eastbourne BC and the Mens Pairs at Gildredge Park BC, Eastbourne BC, Hampden Park BC, Motcombe Gardens BC and Parade BC.
Ladies Singles
In the first round matches played in the morning at Hampden Park BC, last year’s finalist and five time former Champion Rachel Mackriell (Eastbourne BC) got her campaign underway with a convincing 21-3 win over Elaine Connor (Royal Sovereign BC). Rachel continued her progress with a second round win in the afternoon over Julia Savin (Parade BC) 21-6. Defending Champion Linda Stanley (Eastbourne BC) had a bye in the first round and progressed to the third courtesy of victory over frequent visitor Gwen Burke (Cliftonville BC) 21-11 at Eastbourne BC. Roma Dalby (Spartan & Lakeside BC) played England U25 member Emily Ferguson (Milton Regis BC) and displayed fine form to win 21-19. Jenny Townsend (Gildredge Park BC) beat two time former Champion Gillie Hill (Eastbourne BC) 21-15 and meets Roma in round three. Ladies Tournament Representative Annie-France Jackson (Eastbourne BC) had a convincing 21-7 victory over Kay Parkin (Gullivers BC) but went out in the second round 21-10 to Ellen Strevens (Gildredge Park BC). Ellen meets Rachel in the third round. Four time former Champion
Joan Jones (Swansea BC) fell at the first hurdle to Jean Akehurst (Hellingly BC) 21-10 and Jean progressed to the third round courtesy of victory over Helen Cunningham (Gildredge Park BC) 21-13. Helen had earlier put out Wendy Catt (Gullivers BC) 21-15. Tracy Jenner (Eastbourne BC) put out Gill Henty (Crouch BC) 21-11 but then fell to Julie Greenslade (Gullivers BC) 21-7 in the second round. Julie had earlier beaten Louise Kenward (Eastbourne BC) 21-13. The third round commences Tuesday morning.
Mens Pairs
The competition was fully subscribed with 64 teams entering. Play took place on the greens of Gildredge Park BC, Eastbourne BC and Motcombe Gardend BC. Teams who made it through to Tuesdays third round in Group A were Michael Rew & Chris Vincent (Deanlands BC), Rob Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnam BC) & Grant Aldridge (Poplar BC) – who beat fancied duo Charles Wright & Jason Walter (Spartan & Lakeside BC) 22-21 in the second round – Simon Perry (Eastbourne BC) & Colin Perry (Essex County), who also had a one shot victory 15-14 in the second round against Joe Cornelius (West Wimbledon BC) & Mark Harding (Cheam BC). 2016 Champions Chris Antiss (Knighton Victoria BC) & Andy Browning (Gildredge Park BC) progressed courtesy of another one shot triumph, 21-20 over the Eastbourne BC duo of Ray Corney & Mike Dooley. 2014 Champions and 2016 finalists Roger Cable & Bill Fuller (Eastbourne BC) progressed to the third round where they will meet Alan Glenister & Mike Crowhurst (Hampden Park BC) who put out 2011 Champions Vince Smith (U/A) & Mike Taylor (Eastbourne BC) 24-23 in round two. The remaining Group A places were taken by strong duo Barrie Fordham (Polegrove BC) & David Richardson (Downsman BC) – both former Singles Champions – and Barry Kenward (Eastbourne BC) & Ian Bratthammer (Gildredge Park BC). In the first two rounds in Group A no less than six matches were decided by a single shot.
In Group B, where play took place at Gildredge Park BC, Eastbourne BC, Hampden Park BC and Parade BC, local players found the going tough with only the Gildredge Park duo of Robert Ramsden & Duncan Pickering progressing through to the third round. Some impressive visitor teams were in evidence. The regular long-term evergreen visiting duo of Martin Mapp (Marden BC) & Graham Bridges (Grosvenor BC) will meet in form Phil Wade (Spartan & Lakeside BC) & Martin Cropper (Sidley Martlets BC) who won their first two matches against single figures. Leicestershire visitors Bob Kenney and Dick Watkinson (Knighton Victoria BC) achieved the same feat and will meet David Payne & Derek Southouse (Herstmonceux BC) in the third round. Kevin Hilton & Tony Hopkins (Gullivers BC) will meet Tony Edwards (Caterham BC) & Geoff Hillman (Newhaven BC) who earlier defeated 2012 finalists Chris Surman & Adam Oakman (White Rock BC) 24-13 in the first round. He final team through from Group B is Adam Harding (West Wimbledon BC) & Steve Hawkins (Harlow BC) who beat Hampden Park duo Kevin Brooks & Fred Connell 31-12 in the second round.
Mens Triples
Another hot day concluded with play at Eastbourne BC and Motcombe Gardens BC. Playing at Motcombe, there were wins for Brian Henty’s Crouch BC team against Derek Southouse’s Herstmonceux BC trio 18-13 and Michael Rew’s Deanland BC team against Martin Mapp (Marden BC), Graham Bridges (Grosvenor BC) and David Corbett (The Grove BC) 23-18. Fred Frensham (Eastbourne BC), John Blackman (U/A) and Ken Hill (Eastbourne BC) also won against Bernie Argent (Larsen BC), Steve Hawkins (Harlow BC) and John Smith (Motcombe Gardens BC) 15-13.
Playing ar Eastbourne BC, only one fully local team made it through to the third round when the Eastbourne BC trio of Ted Roberts, John Brady and Francois Celada beat the 2014 champions made up of Tournament ‘Officials’ Terry Boniface (Eastbourne BC), Vince Smith (U/A) and Mike Taylor (Eastbourne BC) 14-13. Other locals getting through were Neil Pierce (Eastbourne BC) and Derek Wells (Hampden Park BC) who teamed up with Gerry Vincent (Chessington BC) to put out the Eastbourne BC trio of David Cornwell, Trevor Scott and Ray Corney 23-13. George Murray (Gildredge Park BC) teamed up with the Aylesbury Town duo of Alan Green and Robert Grimes to defeat the Leicestershire team of Roger Plant, Bob Kenney and Dick Watkinson (Knighton Victoria BC) 19-16. On a bad day for Leicestershire visitors, the team of Cyril Berrill, Ken Raynor (both Knighton Victoria BC) and Les Jinks (St Margaret’s BC) also fell to the Aylesbury Town BC trio of Denzil Ashcroft, Steve Rutland and Paul Rogers 16-14. Eastbourne duo Barry Kenward and Simon Perry teamed up with Ian Bratthammer (Gildredge Park BC) but found the fancied trio of Adam Oakman, Chris Surman (both White Rock BC and Martin Pelosi (Lindfield BC) too hot to handle, losing 19-6. Last year’s finalists Chris Antiss (Knighton Victoria BC), Andy Albon and Andy Browning (both Gildredge Park BC) were beaten 26-13 by David Bibby, Peter Meyrick and Harry Woolven (Preston BC).
Tuesday
Mens Singles
Section A
Playing at Gildredge Park, the only local player to make it through was Andy Stanley (Eastbourne BC) who defeated 2014 Champion David Willis (Bexhill BC) 21-10 to move on to the 4th round. Adrian Wainwright (Eastbourne BC) fell to the impressive Rob Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnam BC) 21-12 and Francois Celada (Eastbourne BC) succumbed to last year’s finalist Carl Dyer (Sidley Martlets BC) 21-11. Ted Vidler (Brentwood BC) moved on to the 4th round courtesy of a 21-16 victory over Chris Webley (Gullivers BC).
Section B
There were no local survivors from the third round matches played at Gildredge Park. Mike Dooley (Eastbourne BC) fell to Michael Rew (Deanlands BC) 21-11 and Derek Wells (Hampden Park BC) was soundly beaten by Phil Harrod (Bexhill BC) 21-2. Graham Bridges (Grosvenor BC) continues his steady progress with a 21-13 victory over Rod Wheeler (Weston Bath BC) and a tight match spanning 35 ends saw Bob Kenney (Knighton Victoria BC) triumph 21-19 over Colin Hall (Bexhill BC).
Section C
Playing at Hampden Park BC, David Payne (Herstmonceux BC) beat Stuart Burrell (Northiam BC) 21-9 to move into the 4th round where he would meet Frank Russell (Sutton BC) conqueror of Martin Pelosi (Lindfield BC) 21-10. Tournament Organiser Mike Taylor (Eastbourne BC) had a hard fought victory over Adam Harding, winning 21-15 and meets Tournament President Vince Smith (U/A) in the 4th round, Vince having received no less than 3 walk-overs!
Section D
Mike Crowhurst (Hampden Park BC) was the only local survivor in this section, played at Hampden Park BC. He won 21-13 against David Corbett (The Grove BC) and meets Mark Harding (Cheam BC) in the 4th round with Mark having beaten Ron Fenner (Hampden Park BC) 21-7. In the other half of the draw Jack Till (Spartan & Lakeside BC) beat 2008 Champion and 2013 finalist Martin Biggleston (U/A) 21-15. He meets clubmate Phil Saunders who progressed courtesy of a walk-over against Rob Hunt (Bearsted & Thurnam BC).
Ladies Singles
Play took place in the third round (Quarter-Finals) at Gildredge Park. Defending Champion Linda Stanley (Eastbourne BC) saw off a spirited challenge from Alison Johnson (Knighton Victoria BC) 21-15 progressing to the semi-final where she will meet Roma Dalby (Spartan & Lakeside BC). Roma defeated Gildredge Park BC’s Jenny Townsend 21-17 to reach the semi. In the other half of the draw Rachel Mackriell (Eastbourne BC) beat Ellen Strevens (Gildredge Park BC) 21-3. Rachel, in awesome form, has only dropped a total of 12 shots in the three games played to date. She will meet Jean Akehurst (Hellingly BC) who beat Julie Greenslade (Gullivers BC) 21-12.
Mens Pairs
Section A
Third round matches were played at Hampden Park BC and featured a convincing win for Rob Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnam BC) and Grant Aldridge (Poplar BC) over the Deanlands BC duo of Michael Rew and Chris Vincent 32-8. 2016 Champions Chris Antiss (Knighton Victoria BC) and Andy Browning moved into the 4th round beating the brotherly pairing of Simon (Eastbourne BC) and Colin Perry (Essex County BC) 27-21. Fancied duo David Richardson (Downsmen BC) and Barrie Fordham (Polegrove BC) fell 19-18 to Barry Kenward (Eastbourne BC) and Ian Bratthammer (Gildredge Park BC). 2014 Champions Bill Fuller and Roger Cable (Eastbourne BC) beat the home club duo of Alan Glenister and Mike Crowhurst 20-18.
Section B
Played at Gildredge Park BC, only one local pair successfully progressed to the 4th round. Playing on their home green, Robert Ramsden and Duncan Pickering had a 15-13 win over Steve Hawkins (Harlow BC) and Adam Harding (West Wimbledon BC). Martin Mapp (Marden BC) and Graham Bridges (Grosvenor BC) continued to progress with a 20-13 victory over Phil Wade (Spartan & Lakeside BC) and Martin Cropper (Sidley Martlets BC). The last remaining Leicestershire duo, Bob Kenney and Dick Watkinson (Knighton Victoria BC) were eliminated by the Herstmonceux BC pairing of David Payne and Derek Southouse 17-16. The last qualifiers for the 4th round were the Gullivers BC duo of Kevin Hilton and Tony Hopkins who defeated Tony Edwards (Caterham BC) and Geoff Hillman (Newhaven BC) 30-6.
Ladies Pairs
With play taking place on the greens of Gildredge Park BC and Hampden Park BC the competition was broadly dominated by local players. At Hampden Park, Helen Cunningham and Mal Rossell (Gildredge Park BC) saw off the challenge of the Eastbourne BC duo of Wendy Dunne and Linda Stanley 21-11, whilst Eastbourne BC duo Sheila Simmons and Gillie Hill beat Ellen Strevens (Gildredge Park BC) and Alison Johnson (Knighton Victoria BC) 29-8. Sue Taylor (Eastbourne BC) and Corinne Urben (Uckfield BC) won 32-14 against the Gullivers BC team of Wendy Catt and Kay Parkin. Ros Pickering (Gildredge Park BC) and Judy Grimes (Aylesbury Town BC) beat the Spartan & Lakeside duo of Jenny Lawson and Roma Dalby 19-13. Meanwhile at Gildredge Park BC, Ellen McGuinness and Rachel Mackriell (Eastbourne BC) defeated the home club pairing of Jenny Townsend and Sue Putland 22-10 and another Eastbourne BC duo, Jan Furley and Pauline Jackson were victorious against the Parade BC pair, Kay Loveland and Val Cosham 33-6. Another Parade BC team to fall were Julia Savin and Cathy Greenwood who met in-form Joan Jones (Swansea BC) and Evelyn Goldsmith (Gildredge Park BC), losing 25-15. The final team to make it through to Wednesday’s third round were the Eastbourne BC duo of Tracy Jenner and Louise Kenward who beat club-mate Jean Clements and Marilyn Doust (Gildredge Park BC) 22-11.
Mens Triples
The remaining second round matches were played at Hampden Park BC together with the bulk of the third round. In the second round, the Crouch BC team of Don Kent, Gordon Smith and Brian Henty proved too strong for the triple from Deanlands BC – Michael Rew, Chris Vincent and Arthur Thurgood – winning 21-4. The other second round match saw the fancied trio of Dave Richardson (Downsman BC), Mike Dooley (Eastbourne BC) and Barrie Fordham (Polegrove BC) beat John Blackman (U/A), Fred Frensham and Ken Hill (both Eastbourne BC) 20-15. Playing their third round matches, Derek Wells (Hampden Park BC), Neil Pierce (Eastbourne BC) and Gerry Vincent (Chessington BC) stormed through against Alan Green, Robert Grimes (both Aylesbury Town BC) and George Murray (Gildredge Park BC) 19-8 whilst the Aylesbury Town BC trio of Denzil Ashcroft, Steve Rutland and Paul Rogers put out the last remaining local team consisting of Ted Roberts, John Brady and Francois Celada (Eastbourne BC) 17-11. the fancied trio of Adam Oakman, Chris Surman (both White Rock BC) and Martin Pelosi (Lindfield BC) also progressed to the semi-finals courtesy of a 22-18 victory over the Preston BC trio of David Bibby, Peter Meyrick and Harry Woolven.
Wednesday
Mens Singles
The 4th Round matches took place in the morning at Gildredge Park BC on yet another hot, sunny morning.
Section A
Ted Vidler (Brentwood BC) took out the only remaining local player in the section, Andy Stanley (Eastbourne BC) 21-12 and Rob Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnam BC) beat last year’s finalist Carl Dyer (Sidley Martlets BC) by a single shot 21-20.
Section B
No local players remained in this section. Bob Kenney (Knighton Victoria BC) met Graham Bridges (Grosvenor BC) and it was Graham who emerged victorious 21-13. Meanwhile Michael Rew (Deanlands BC) went out to Phil Harrod (Bexhill BC) 21-11.
Section C
An all ‘executive’ local match saw Tournament Organiser Mike Taylor (Eastbourne BC) beat Tournament President Vince Smith (U/A) 21-11 whilst David Payne (Herstmonceux BC) defeated Sutton BC bowler Frank Russell 21-15.
Section D
The only local player left in the section, Mike Crowhurst (Hampden Park BC) won 21-17 against Mark Harding (Cheam BC) and Phil Saunders (Spartan & Lakeside BC) beat club-mate Jack Till 21-9.
The quarter finals take place on Thursday afternoon.
Ladies Pairs
Round 3 of the Ladies Pairs was also played in the morning at Gildredge Park BC and featured considerable success for home club players. Evelyn Goldsmith c/w Joan Jones (Swansea BC) saw off the challenge from Eastbourne BC duo Tracey Jenner and Louise Kenward 21-11 whilst Helen Cunningham and Mal Rossell beat the fancied Eastbourne duo of Sheila Simmons and Gillie Hill 17-16. Ros Pickering c/w Judy Grimes (Aylesbury Town BC) also triumphed, beating Sue Taylor (Eastbourne BC) and Corinne Urben 25-9. The last game was an all Eastbourne BC affair with Ellen McGuinness and Rachel Mackriell beating Jan Furley and Pauline Jackson 25-23.
The semi-finals take place on Thursday afternoon.
Mixed Triples
The first two rounds took place in the afternoon and evening with play taking place at the greens of Motcombe Gardens BC, Gildredge Park BC and Eastbourne BC. Another fully subscribed competition saw local teams struggle against strong visitor combinations with only three fully local teams making it through to the quarter finals to be played on Thursday morning.
Mens Triples
The ‘catch up’ quarter final match between Don Kent, Gordon Smith and Brian Henty (Crouch BC) and Barrie Fordham (Polegrove BC) David Richardson (Downsmen BC) and Mike Dooley (Eastbourne BC) was played ar Eastbourne BC resulting in a 15-11 win for the Crouch BC team.
Thursday
Mens Singles
The competition had reached the Quarter Final stage, played at Gildredge Park BC.
Section A
In an all ‘visitor’ match, Rob Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnam BC) emerged a comfortable victor over Ted Vidler (Brentwood BC) 21-7.
Section B
Another all ‘visitor’ game saw Graham Bridges (Grosvenor BC) beat off the challenge of Phil Harrod (Bexhill BC) 21-14.
Section C
David Payne (Herstmonceux BC) defeated Eastbourne BC player and Tournament Organiser Mike Taylor 21-11.
Section D
Phil Saunders (Spartan & Lakeside BC) defeated the other remaining local player, Mike Crowhurst (Hampden Park BC) 21-10.
Ladies Singles
The semi-finals were played at Gildredge Park BC and saw defending Champion Linda Stanley (Eastbourne BC) defeated by a singles shot 21-20 by Roma Dalby (Spartan & Lakeside BC) after an enthralling battle.
Last year’s beaten finalist, Rachel Mackriell (Eastbourne BC), was in tremendous form and beat Jean Akehurst (Hellingly BC) 21-3 to progress to the final once again.
Ladies Pairs
It was semi-final time for the Ladies Pairs, featuring a number of local players. Joan Jones (Swansea BC) and Evelyn Goldsmith (Gildredge Park BC) had a convincing 21-5 victory over the Eastbourne BC pairing of Ellen McGuinness and Rachel Mackriell, whilst the Gildredge Park duo of Helen Cunningham and Mal Rossell ran out victors 17-12 against Ros Pickering (Gildredge Park BC) and Judy Grimes (Aylesbury Town
BC).
Mens Pairs
The competition had now reached the Quarter Final Stage
Section A
Rob Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnham BC) and Grant Aldridge (Poplar BC) played 2016 Champions Chris Antiss (Knighton Victoria BC) and Andy Browning (Gildredge Park BC) emerging victorious 27-11.
In an all ‘local’ match Barry Kenward (Eastbourne BC0 and Ian Bratthammer (Gildredge Park BC) played 2014 Champions Roger Cable and Bill Fuller (Eastbourne BC). It was Barry and Ian who won 19-5 to go through to the Semi-Finals.
Section B
The Gildredge Park BC duo of Robert Ramsden and Duncan Pickering played Martin Mapp (Marden BC) and Graham Bridges (Grosvenor BC) and it was the local pairing who triumphed 21-18. The other quarter final saw the Herstmonceux BC team of David Payne and Derek Southouse beaten 22-13 by the Gullivers BC pair Kevin Hilton and Tony Hopkins 22-13.
Mixed Triples
The quarter-finals saw Robert Ramsden (Gildredge Park BC) teamed with Judy Rogers and Paul Rogers (both Aylesbury Town BC) beat Pauline Jackson (Eastbourne BC), Tourrnament President Vince Smith (U/A) and Gerry Vincent (Chessington BC) 23-4. The Eastbourne BC trio of Annie-France Jackson, Roger Cable and Bill Fuller won 19-14 against the Gildredge Park BC trio of Jenny Townsend, Sue Putland and Kevin Townsend. Pat Newman, David Payne and Derek Southouse (Herstmonceux BC) beat Ellen Strevens (Gildredge Park BC), Cyril Berrill and Ken Raynor (both St Margaret’s BC) 21-16 and the Eastbourne BC team of Fred Frensham, Rachel Mackriell (for whom Julia Savin (Parade BC) came in as sub) and Mike Taylor conceded when winning 21-2 against Ann Dixon, John Dixon and Ray Fletcher (Gildredge Park BC) as they were unable to field a team of qualifying players in the Semi-final.
Social Night & Grand Raffle Draw
Held at the Saffrons home of Eastbourne BC, the Social evening was well supported by visiting players and supporters (sadly rather less so by locals) and featured entertainment by popular singing duo ‘The Likely Lads’ – who have performed for us for 17 of the past 18 years. A collection was held on behalf of local charity ‘The JPK Project’ and ‘compere’ for the evening Mike Taylor auctioned an impressive multi-coloured LARGE caterpillar for their funds resulting in a donation totaling an impressive £170.
Friday – Finals Day at Gildredge Park BC – Report in The Eastboune Herald
New Name on the Mens Singles Trophy in the Eastbourne Open Bowls Tournament while Rachel wins the Ladies Title for the Sixth time.
In glorious sunshine, the finals of the 89th Eastbourne Open Bowls Tournament took place on the greens of Gildredge Park BC in front of a large appreciative audience including The Worshipful The Mayor Cllr. Gill Mattock and Simon Brown (General Manager of Langham Hotel) representing sole sponsors Wendy and Neil Kirby. The ‘Blue Riband’ event, the Mens Singles, was contested between visitors Geoff Bridges (Grosvenor BC) and Phil Saunders (Spartan & Lakeside BC). During the first 11 ends only 12 shots were scored but the advantage lay with Geoff 8-4. By the 15th end Geoff had stretched his lead to 13-8 and ran out a worthy winner 21-12, taking the title and the £1,000 prize. The Ladies Singles final was contested between Phil’s Spartan & Lakeside club mate Roma Dalby and local bowler Rachel Mackriell (Eastbourne BC). Roma had beaten last year’s Champion, Linda Stanley (Eastbourne BC) in a thrilling semi-final by 21-20 but found five times previous Champion Rachel in devastating form. Rachel got off to a flying start, leading 11-0 after 6 ends and despite dogged opposition triumphed 21-7. The Mens Pairs was an all ‘visitor’ affair with Rob Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnham BC) and Grant Aldridge (Poplar BC) meeting Kevin Hilton and Anthony Hopkins (Gullivers BC). Rob had earlier lost to Geoff Bridges in the Singles semi-final 21-18 but he and Grant proved too hot to handle for Kevin and Tony running out vociferous winners 21-9, the game being conceded at 18 ends. In the Ladies Pairs, former Gildredge Park member Joan Jones (Swansea) teamed up with Evelyn Goldsmith (Gildredge Park BC) and played another Gildredge Park duo, Helen Cunningham and M Rossell. It was the vastly experienced couple of Joan and Evelyn who triumphed in front of strong home support by 25-11. The Mens Triples was contested by the Aylesbury trio of Denzil Ashcroft, Steve Rutland and Paul Rogers against Ian Ferguson (Bearsted & Thurnham BC), Neil Pierce (Eastbourne BC) and Derek Wells (Hampden Park BC). Ian was substituting for Gerry Vincent (Chessington BC) who had been taken ill during the semi-final. A game of two halves saw the Aylesbury trio trailing 15-8 with 4 ends to play. A spirited effort saw the advantage reduced to just 2 shots but it was Ian, Neil and Derek who clung on to win 15-13. The Mixed Triples featured the Herstmonceux BC trio of Penny Numan, David Payne and Derek Southouse. They played Paul and Judy Rogers (Aylesbury) coupled with Robert Ramsden (Gildredge Park BC). It was the more distant visitors from Aylesbury who triumphed, winning a close game 16-12. Trophies were presented by The Worshipful The Mayor and Prize monies by Simon Brown. A delighted audience was informed that the sponsorship would be continuing next year, which will see the 90th running of the event and will mark the 11th time the event has been supported by Wendy and Neil Kirby (Langham Hotel). Tournament President Vince Smith thanked Madam Mayor for attending both the opening and prize giving (presenting her with flowers) and also thanked all who had helped make the event such a success once more, particularly the Umpires, Markers and helpers behind the scenes at all of the hosting clubs. Following a rousing rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ in honour of Tournament Vice-President and senior administrator Ron Putland the proceedings drew to a close.