It was a good turnout over the weekend 11/12th March at Gedling IBC, Nottingham for the Ann Trotman Singles with 21 bowlers eventually taking part. Sadly 3 bowlers had had to pull out in the last few days not giving time for those on the waiting list to make travel and accommodation arrangements. I had to put a limit of 24 on the entries in order to make it a good tournament in the two days.
We had bowlers from all parts of the country, North East , North West, East Midlands, West Midlands, South East and South West plus two from Wales.
The players were split into groups playing a round-robin format followed by semi’s and final. All matches were played to 21 shots up or one and a half hours whichever came first.
Results were as follows:
Semi Final
Dave Fisher (Colchester) 13 v Chris Gray (Kettering) 18
Mike Robertson (Peterborough) 16 v Kevin Vernon (Sidmouth ) 12
Final
Chris 20 v Mike 13
Over the weekend there was some wonderful bowling. It never fails to amaze the spectators as to the high standard these bowlers play.
As always at Gedling IBC the helpers were terrific!
Shirley Hughes OBE, retired manager of CP Sport and now Trustee on the Board of Disability Bowls England, came along to present the Ann Trotman Memorial Trophy and prizes to the winner and runner-up. Shirley knew Ann very well and spoke a little about her. She also congratulated and thanked the Gedling helpers who have given their time so willingly, for so many years now, at these events. Bob Love spoke to the crowd on behalf of the bowlers, to show their appreciation also for the helpers and markers.
The atmosphere of the whole weekend was one of friendship, good humour and sportsmanship, and we received many very positive comments, especially from the new comers.
The next disability event at Gedling is the DBE Regional Challenge on 9th April 2017.
Report Margaret Smith