Weather wins in Madeira v Phear Park bowls derby

While most of East Devon was mopping up or brushing off plans to build an ark, Madeira were welcoming their nearest and dearest Phear Park neighbours. Exmouth bragging rights were up for grabs as four mixed triples took to the greens.

After nine ends, Phear Park appeared to be taking a grip on the match by leading on three rinks and by an overall tally of 27 -17. Then, the weather closed in and the match had to be abandoned. We shall never know whether it would have all changed after tea.

Next up, attention turned to serious competition in the form of the Grace Mathews Top Club. Madeira ‘A’ travelled to Sidmouth, where the hosts’ powerful line up lay in wait.

In a nail biter, Jude Harvey took a notable scalp in the 2 Wood singles by the slimmest of margins 14 -13. Meanwhile, In the Pairs, Annette Bister and Mary Solway were leading 21-17 with one end to play and seemed destined to add to Madeira’s points.

However, in a stunning comeback that summed up the thrilling unpredictability of bowls, Sidmouth scored a 5 on the final end to steal the rink, 22- 21. In similar fashion, a 2 on the final end secured the Fours for Sidmouth 16-14. And that was as good as it got for Madeira, with the Triples and Four wood singles both going down. So, Sidmouth advance to the second round where we wish them good luck.

Meantime, the Over 60’s and Exeter District leagues are now underway. Progress reports will follow from time to time.

Finally, on a lovely Saturday, a perfect Spring morning, Madeira held its Open Day.

Under the guidance of Coach Chris Reed and volunteer members, a total of 29 prospective bowlers took to the rinks to give it a try, many for the first time. It is hoped that a significant number of them will decide to take up the sport. Coaching will be provided to those who are interested, following which they will be ready to join the club.