BOWLING

Evening Post, Volume CXII, Issue 95, 19 October 1931, Page 13

BOWLING

SEASON OPENED

SUBURBAN CLUBS

Among the bowling clubs which opened their seasons on Saturday afternoon were Petone and Johnsonville. At both greens there were large attendances of members, representatives of other clubs, and ladies.

A large attendance of members, friends, and visiting bowlers was present at the opening of the Petone Bowling Club's green. In declaring the season open, the president, Mr. T. M'Arthur, welcomed the visitors, new members, and the ladies. He made special reference to the fact that there were present Mr. H. Mayer, vicepresident of the New Zealand Bowling Association and past-president of the Wellington Centre, and Mr. M. J. Hodgins, who was now holding, the office of president of the Wellington Centre. To both he paid tributes for their good work done for bowls, and he was sure that Mr. Hodgins was a worthy successor to Mr. Mayer. Referring to the work that had been done during the close season Mr. M'Arthur said that the main entrance to the green had been re-asphalted and a new entrance made -at the side. The green had been properly levelled, in which connection he thanked 'the Thdrndoh Club for the loan of plant, -and it "looked as it it would give complete satisfaction. He was pleased to' note that Petone were the holders of the junior pennant. Telegrams wishing the club a successful season were received from uVIr. 'G. Burn, from Mr. Scott, of Martinborough, and | from the Martinborough Bowling Club. Bowlers who had passed away since last season were mentioned -in a (short,-speech given by Mr. H. Mayer, special reference being made to the death in of Mr. J. W. Hardley, of Auckland. The gathering stood in silence for a moment. Continuing, Mr. Mayer 'spoke *f the great work done for bowl* by several of the older members of the Petone Club, among whom were Mr. Cowie, Mr. A. Coles, and the president, Mr. M Arthur. The club should be proud of them. _ Mr. Hodgins expressed delight at being present, congratulated the club on the fine state of its green and surroundings, and concluded by wishing all a happy and a joyous season. ■ , Mrs. M'Arthur, jun., sent up the fcrst kitty, and after it the first bowl. Afternoon tea was served in the pavilion, and piny continued throughout the afternoon. Visitors to the green included Mr. \v. Nash, M.P., and Mrs. Nash. The opening of the Johnsonville green was conducted by the president, Dr. Aitken, Mrs. Aitken putting down the lack and the veteran of the club, Mr. A. Mills, the first bowl. There was" a good attendance of members and visitors, including a rink from Khandallah. Dr Aitken spoke of the good work done by the committee and green superintendent during the close season, and expressed the appreciation of members oi the entertainment provided by the ladies. Some pleasant friendly games were played, and afternoon tea was served.