BOWLING

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Volume IX, Issue 662, 16 October 1902, Page 7

BOWLING

Owing to the'porous nature of the ground the Mount Eden Bowling Club is generally able to lead the other clubs, with its opening clay. Labor Day was selected, and a big muster of' enthusiasts turned up, including quite, an array of old identities. Since last season, the ground has been largely increased in size, and is now one of .the very best in Auckland. As usual, the lacy :friends of the club supplied refreshments, and a very pleasant day was passed. During the morning the three rinks, consisted of the Presidents and Vice-presidents teams, and the former won after a good finish by 58- points to 54 points. Seven rinks took part- -during the afternoon

What a hold “Ye ancient game of bowls’’ has on the affections of New Zealanders, may be gathered from the eleventh annual report of ’ the Northern. Bowling Association, which states that 31 affiliated clubs.'have a membership of over 2000, making the association the strongest, niitnerically, in Australasia. The Mount Albert Club opened the!sea son on Saturday, the -Teen looking very nic<» indeed. ■ «As lisuAl Mrs - r . T. Garlick provided 'afteriidon- ten. and the outing was much enjoyed.’ Ashton’s team beat Priestly’s four rather easily, while James’ team simply ran over the one skippei'ed bY 'Wright/

' .In the same report regret is expressed I that the return match, North v. South, could not be arranged, owing to lack of representation on the part of the Southern Association, ' and that it is impossible to expect a visit this season from Scotch or British bowlers. The ufeual champion fours tournament will be held on the' Palmerston North and Feilding Greens, commencing on Monday, January 12. As this only requires one team from each club it is hoped there will I« good representation. In view of the general wish to curtail the play it has been decided that should there be a large number of entries to divide the players into two sections, the individual clubs of each section to play each -other to a finish, and the winners of each section to play off the final. V .«•»«* At both Newmarket and Mount Eden games were in full progress oii Saturday, on tne latter 'ho Ipss than eight rinks ! ■ being f layed. .■ !’. / . !. * , *. • - * * Auckland intends opening on November 1, when the usual “At Home” will be given. There is certain to be a great gathering.