Mansfield Bowls Club had their official opening for the 2024-2025 season on Sunday, September 15, with over 40 players taking part in some social bowls. The rink was opened with the first jack and bowl being delivered by Kevin Nikkelson and Michelle Mios, who was accompanied by her faithful companion and staunch bowls club supporter, Tilly the Staffy Terrier. The first club competition was the Ladies Champion Pairs, which started on Thursday, September. The pairs played three bowls each. In the first round, Michelle Mios and Irene Fuller defeated Marian Ryan and Elaine Peterson. Yvonne Robinson and Jenny Walsh defeated Lyn Holland and Vicki Klein. Denise Storer and Lyn Foots defeated Anne Tilbrook and Enid Smith. Kathleen Bock and Carolyn Close defeated Kris Humphrey and Anne Wileman. In the afternoon games, Yvonne and Jenny defeated Michelle and Irene with an extra end being played for a decider (13 shots to 11). Kathleen and Carolyn defeated Denise and Lyn 23 shots to 12. The final is to be played this week between Kathleen and Carolyn against Yvonne and Jenny. Best of luck, ladies. Sunday, September 29, saw the men start the 21-up club competition. In the first round, Chris Laws defeated Rick Nichols. Kevin Nikkelson defeated Alan Hatcher. Harry Smith defeated Denis Sharpe. Nick Klein defeated Ken Rainsbury. Alan Dobson had a win over Steve Lewis. John Foots went straight through to round two. Michael Harrison defeated Noel Jackson. Mick Walsh defeated Mark Bettany. In the second round, Kevin "Nikko" defeated Chris Laws 21 shots to 15 after a 3 1/2 hour battle in the rain. Harry Smith got the better of Nick Klein by only six shots (21 to 15). Alan Dobson got up to beat John Foots 21 shots to nine. Michael Harrison battled it out with Mick Walsh to win 21 to 14. Next Sunday sees Alan Dobson taking on Michael Harrison and Nikko playing against Harry Smith. The victors of the two games will play off in the afternoon for the Champion 21-up trophy. Pennant Bowls starts on October 12, which the club is gearing up for, looking forward to competing across the north-east on Saturdays and Tuesdays. Home Pennant starts on October 15. Any club member is welcome to join a home pennant team. Social bowls will continue on Fridays. An entry sheet is posted on the notice board outside the main door, and members are welcome to enter their name on the sheet. Please remember to enter before and arrive by 11:30 a.m. Thanks to the volunteers and match committees who run all of these events. Happy rolling.
