Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 1926. BRITISH BOWLERS.

Greymouth Evening Star, 30 January 1926, Page 4

Greymouth Evening Star. AND BRUNNERTON ADVOCATE SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 1926. BRITISH BOWLERS.

Bowls, despite its long and distinguished pedigree, is not treated by all with the respect the aged—even sports—deserve, but this flippancy on the part of the younger generation is perhaps more than counterbalanced by the devotion extended to it. by most of those who profess and call themselves bowlers. Whatever the atti-

tude to the game, however, there will be complete unanimity in the cordial welcome to be extended today, by Coast representatives, to the visiting British bowlers, and it is to be hoped that the weather will be on its best behaviour during the visitors’ stay in this district. It is understandable if the Ilomelanders are Surfeited with welcomes and hospitality, as their tour has been somewhat strenuous, the constant travelling being, also, a handicap. Nevertheless, they would made a grievous omission had they not included the West Coast in their itinerary, because for beautiful scenery of all kinds and real hospitality, this part of the Dominion claims to be second to none. Whether the visitbrs win or lose is a matter of little consequence. They do not claim to be all first-class players; neither do their Coast opponents. And like their latest hosts, the British have established a record for true sportsmanship. They have accepted defeat in a good spirit, and have made themselves popular in all the centres they have visited. That is the type of player, Coasters are particularly delighted to honour, especially when the guests are of our own kith and kin, trained to accept defeat gracefully, and not to misuse victory. It' has been said by the visitors that New Zealanders take their bowls more seriously than they do in Britain, but this is probably due to the greater virility of the overseas dwellers. Similar comment was made of the All Blacks’ style of play, and should be regarded as a compliment rather than otherwise. Doubtless, New Zealand bowlers will profit in some directions by the lessons given by the visitors, and the latter may, too, return Home with valuable hints acquired through. their experiences on Dominion greens. Drab uniformity is not always to be encouraged, and so long as the spirit of true sportsmanship is the dominant factor at Home and Overseas, bowlers need not get controversial over minor differences in style or rules. Meanwhile, the British party can be assured of the sincerity of the welcome awaiting them throughout the West Coast, and when on their return Home, they reflect on their experiences during the trip, it is to be hoped that they will give their West Coast call a high place'among the pleasant memories of the tour, just as their visit will be recorded as something memorable in West Coast bowling annals.