BOWLERS FOR SYDNEY.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVIII, Issue 150, 26 June 1937, Page 21

BOWLERS FOR SYDNEY.

LARGE PARTY ASSURED.

CHAMPIONS TO COMPETE

Expectations were exceeded when it came to getting exact information of the prospects of making up a party for Sydney, at a meeting held in the Carlton Bowling Club's pavilion this week. The president of the Auckland Centre, Mr. A. E. Whitten, explained the scheme, that it was proposed to compete in the Australian bowling carnival, commencing in Sydney on January 17, where there would be six rounds of section play in the rinks and pairs, and "sudden death" in the singles. This would be followed by the Empire Games, commencing on February 5, and the council of the New Zealand Bowling Association, at its annual meeting in Dunedin on July 7, would decide how the representatives of the Dominion would be chosen. He and his colleagues would like to be in a position to inform the council how many were going from Auckland, as this would probably help in the decision about selecting players for the Empire Games.

From those in the room, and others who had intimated their intention to compete, it transpired that 31 players were already certain, and about 10 others were thinking of going, but could not decide at present. Mr. Whitten emphasised the desirability of knowing the exact number as early as possible, in order to book their passages before the summer rush set in, and also to reserve accommodation in Sydney, as reports indicated that heavy bookings were already being made. It would be a great convenience, therefore, if as many as possible of the absentees would give their names to the secretary of the Mr. G. -L. Gladding, by Saturday week. July 3, as the councillors have to be in Dunedin by July 6.

Fares and time-tables were discussed, the most suitable steamer being the Aorangi. leaving Auckland on January 10, as this would give the competitors a few days to get used to the Sydney greens. Mr. E. Leach, who competed in the Empire Games of 1930 in Canada, mentioned that he and some of the others would probably go a little earlier, partly on account of the difference in the greens, as they were usually a little keener than the Auckland greens in winter, and a little heavier in the summer. The chairman remarked that he was sure they would get numerous invitations to play on the various greens prior to the contest.

Those who have already nominated include seven players who have Dominion championships to their credit, sixteen who have club championships, and all but about five have won centre or other tournaments, so a party is already assured that is not only strong in number but also in proved ability.