Saturday 5th April was the second of EALABA’s friendly challenge event held at Tamworth IBC. Players and families arrived just after 9 am ready for a 10 am start. Our members normally arrive early so they can partake in sumptuous breakfast baps, provided by our caterers Woodys’.
It was an ideal time to welcome our new members, and guest bowlers that included some of England’s Learning Disability squad. It had been arranged for certain players to have team practice in preparation for the up, and coming, Munro Cup International, being held at https://www.welshindoorbowls.com/clubs/cardiffCardiff IBC at the 22-25th April.
The morning was very busy with the LD squad practising. EALABA players practised line/weight control exercises and delivering six jacks in a set. Jack delivery is so often never practised however, singles players, and those that frequently lead, need to practise good jack delivery. The role of the lead is vital to a team by setting mat position, jack length, and accurate bowl delivery to the jack. This sets team strategy and the pressurisation of the opposition.
EALABA’s opponents for the day, Gedling IBC, arrived for a group lunch of cottage pie, veg and a variety of deserts. Suitably refreshed and well fed, the afternoon session stated with a spider followed by the challenge match of 6 rinks of triples over 15 ends.
Two teams of EALABA’s squad were LD bowlers playing in their format for Cardiff so they had a good workout against a strong Gedling squad.
The match was a much closer affair compared to last year. It was nip and tuck for most of the match before Gedling started to edge into the lead. Spirits and enthusiasm were high right up to the end when Gedling managed a close win by 12 shots. Well done every one, and thank you Gedling IBC for a very enjoyable and competitive game. We look forward to a replay our friendly challenge event, same time next year.
REMAP – During the day there was a short presentation by a representative from REMAP, a charitable organisation that provides adapted aids for people with a disability. REMAP are a national organisation offering a vital service to people with a disability. Click the REMAP for more information.
NEXT EVENT – EALABA National Singles Championship: 20/21st September 2025 venue Tamworth IBC. Check out our Events Calender .
Thank you to all players and families, Tamworth IBC for use of their Club and caterers Woody’s.