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Bray Bowling News - Wed 09/06/23

No rest for the wicked this week as we had wall-to-wall bowls and will continue to do so for the next few weeks. Division 4 kicked the week off on Monday with a trip to Westmanstown and they brought home 3 points following a drawn match. On Tuesday our Division 1 (Saturday) team travelled to Crumlin to take on the star-studded Crumlin team who proved their class with a comprehensive win. Our Division 2 Wednesday team continued their impressive start to the season with a good home win against CYM to remain top of the table. Also on Wednesday our Division 6 team travelled to North Kildare and returned victorious and now top the table. All 4 Vets teams saw action on Thursday with Vets 1 taking three points off Clontarf at home, Vets 2 tasted defeat away to Westmanstown, Vets 3 hit the N4 to North Kildare and in a tight match took all 4 points on offer. Finally, Vets 4 took 3 points back from Crumlin winning the overall by one shot. Saturday saw our 1 rink Division 6 team record a good win at home to Blackrock.

On the same day our Division 1(Saturday) team were in IBA Cup action away to Donaghadee from Co. Down. An early morning convoy left Bray with the Kris Kristofferson hit playing in the background (ie that is " Convoy " for the uninitiated!!) to travel to the land of the Mourne's. For the first time in this competition Bray had ladies playing. Well done to Terri McKeon and Bernie Tracey. The locals whose green is located just metres from the sea proved too strong on the day. Bray would like to record their appreciation to Donaghadee for the wonderful hospitality proved before and after the game. It was wonderful to see so many young bowlers on the home team and also the performance of Cameron Gaw the British Isles Under-25 champion and Irish International was a joy to behold.

This Wednesday sees our Division 2 (Wednesday) travel to take on Westmanstown. On the same night Division 6 travel to Drumcondra to take on Ierne. Thursday 8th June sees Vets 1 at home to Westmanstown, Vets 2 travel to North Co. Dublin to take on Skerries, Vets 3 are at home to near neighbours Greystones and Vets 4 are at home to Shankill. On Saturday 9th June is our Division 1 (Saturday) are at home to CYM 'A' and Division 2 (Saturday) are away to Crumlin in a top of the table clash. Finally, next Monday our Division 4 crew are at home to Bank of Ireland. The ILBA Championships are still in full swing with notable performances coming from Liam Collins, John Gilliland and Ciaran O'Brien. To all those teams currently topping their respective leagues - remember, it is a marathon and not a sprint !!

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News - Wed 31/05/23

Things are hotting up on the playing front with non-stop action last week. Our Division 4 team saw action on the double in the week just gone. They defeated Crumlin on Monday night in Bray taking 6 points. On Wednesday evening they travelled to CYM to take on the team from Terenure and found the grass not to their liking and came home with 1 point. They remain top of the table from near neighbours, Greystones. Also on Wednesday our Division 2 Wednesday team made the short journey to the foothills of the Dublin mountains to take on Dun Laoghaire Golf Club and were very satisfied with their haul of 5.5 points to leave them sitting pretty at the top of the table. Thursday is Vets Day with all 4 of our teams strutting their stuff. Vets 1 travelled to Trim to take on Meath who proved too strong on the day. Vets 2 were narrowly beaten at home by Shankill. Both Vets 3 and 4 had home victories over Greenhills and North Kildare respectively. Both are challenging at the top of the table at the moment. Our Division 2 Saturday team had an excellent victory at home to Skerries and their return of 6.5 points sees them move up to second place in the table behind Crumlin. On the same day our Division 5 team shared the spoils at home to Westmanstown.

This week sees Division 2 Wednesday host CYM and Division 6 travel to North Kildare. The Vets teams are all in action on Thursday with Vets 1 at home to Clontarf, Vets 2 ,3 and 4 hit the road to Westmanstown, North Kildare and Crumlin respectively. Our Division 1 Saturday team are in IBA Cup action when they make the long trek to Donaghadee in Co. Down. On the same day Division 6 are at home to Blackrock. On Tuesday, 6th June, Division 4 travel to take on Blackrock. As you can see there is plenty of bowls being played.

There was also plenty of action in the ILBA Championships during the week and, with the finals in Bray this year, the club are making a concerted effort to have some representation in the finals week. More details in future weeks but honourable mention to the trio of John Gilliland, Alan Hopkins and Will McKeon who travelled to Dungarvan, Co Waterford to play in a Triples match and were agonisingly defeated on the last end.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News - Wed 24/05/23

In the week gone by our (mostly) ladies' teams hosted two Crumlin sides in Bray. In Division 2 the home side got all six points whilst, on Saturday morning, the result was a draw. Rory Neilus did well in this, his first competitive game. On Wednesday our Division 6 outfit had a splendid win away at Blackrock where the going was faster than expected. A total of three points out of a possible 16 were all our vets sides could manage the next day. Teams from Dun Laoghaire did most of the damage with Blackrock doing the rest. However Saturday made up for that when our senior men's teams both took 6.5 points out of 7. Helped by the ladies' Captain, Terri McKeon, the A team defeated visitors, Kenilworth, while the B team were even more impressive with an away win at Westmanstown.

In the ILB O'Leary Cup, for the over-55s, Wally Doyle's rink used their home advantage to knock out Tommy Byrne's foursome from St James's Gate. In the senior fours Marcus Donohoe's lads put together a great team effort to secure a win against Tony Kelly's side in Walkinstown. We had some fallers in other competitions but it was all invaluable experience for them.

Today (Wednesday 24th) Bray's Division 2 ladies make the short trip to Enniskerry to play Dun Laoghaire Golf Club. Our Division 6 team would be playing Kenilworth on the same day if the latter hadn't withdrawn from the league. On Thursday Vets 2,3 and 4 are all at home and play Shankill, Greenhills and North Kildare. Vets 1 meanwhile take the high road to Trim, Co Meath, for a tough away fixture. Saturday morning sees our junior ladies host Westmanstown while later in the day, the Division 2 men brace themselves for the visit of the Skerries first team. The Division 1 match against Crumlin in Dublin 12 has been moved to Tuesday evening. The evening before, Bray's Division 4 side will try their luck at Westmanstown. Good luck to all.

Patrick Brosnan, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News - Wed 17/05/23

Two of the Bray men's teams, in Division 2 and 4, enjoyed home victories over Dun Laoghaire last week. The Borough took its revenge in Division 1 however, winning 5-2 on their own green. The ladies of Division 2 had a good day out at Herbert Park on Wednesday when they took home all the points. Their Division 5 side lost at CYM. On Thursday morning in the vets league all six Bray rinks were in use as three home teams hosted three teams from CYM. Two of the home sides won but Vets 2 lost their game by a single shot. Vets 1 also played CYM, in Terenure, and came home rain-soaked but victorious.

With the IBL championship finals taking place in Bray this year, the club has many members having a go. Some went out this week but plenty got through. The junior singles saw home wins for Alan Hopkins, John McGrath and Liam Collins. Will McKeon went out to North Kildare's superb Greg Burns whom some feel would be more at home in the senior competition. In the junior pairs Liam Collins and Ciaran O'Brien beat their visitors from Shankill. Niall Shelley was our only senior singles victor when he saw off Ultan Daly of Railway Union. The mixed pairs saw a notable away win for Chris Fenton and Theresa Martin against Greystones' R.Bernie and M.Williams. Tommy Cahill and Mark Hughes pulled off perhaps the result of the week, in the senior pairs at Blackrock. Seemingly dead and buried at 14-2 down, they gambled on short jacks to mount a furious comeback and take the tie. Thanks to all the members who attended the games, home and away.

This week sees both our (majority) ladies' teams entertain Crumlin in Bray with Division 2 playing on Wednesday afternoon and Division 5 on Saturday morning. Wednesday evening has our Division 6 men away at Blackrock. Thursday is vets day but only Vets 1 are at home, against Dun Laoghaire. Vets 2 and 4 are away to the same club while Vets 3 travel to Blackrock for their fun. On Saturday afternoon the Division 1 men welcome Kenilworth to Bray while the second team faces a challenging trip to Westmanstown. The following Monday evening the Division 4 side play host to Crumlin.

Patrick Brosnan, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News - Wed 10/05/23

The week started on a positive note with Division 4 taking all six points home from Kenilworth last Monday. On Wednesday our Division 2 team were defeated at home by near neighbours Shankill. On the same night Division 6 got 1 point at home to Westmanstown and only missed the overall by 2 shots. Three of our Vets teams saw action last Thursday. Vets 2 were away in Kenilworth and got 3 points. Vets 3 got 3.5 points away to Sportslink and Vets 4 made the long journey to Trim to play Meath and brought back all 4 points. Saturday saw our Division 5 team all ready to play Greenhills at home but the visitors failed to show. Our Saturday Division 2 team travelled to Dublin 3 to play Clontarf and got a hard earned point.

This week sees our Division 2 Wednesday team head to leafy Dublin 4 to play Herbert Park. Thursday sees all our Vets teams in action with all playing CYM. Vets 1 are away in Terenure and Vets 2,3 and 4 are all at home. On Saturday 13th, Division 5 Saturday travel to CYM, Division 1 head to Dun Laoghaire and Division 2 are to home to the team from the borough. Next Monday sees Division 4 hit the road to CYM.

In the midst of all the team action we have also had plenty of play in the ILBA Championships with victories for John Gilliland and Alan Hopkins in the Nassau Singles and Marcus Donohoe and John Cheevers in the Senior Pairs competition. There is lots of action this week as well with Peter Gough, Mark Hughes and Niall Shelley in Marper Cup action in Bray tonight (Wednesday). All support would be greatly appreciated.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News - Wed 03/05/23

Action all the way in the last week. Division 4 made their seasonal bow last Monday and claimed Garden County bragging rights with a home win against Greystones. Michael Egleston and his magnetic bowls were outstanding in a 5/1 win. Wednesday saw Division 2 travel to Skerries and the long journey proved fruitful when they brought home 5 points to proudly sit at the top of the table at this early stage. On the same night Division 6 were in Aer Lingus and found the locals too hot to handle. Thursday saw 3 of our Vets teams take to the rink with Vets 1 bringing 1 point home from Crumlin. Both Vets 3 and 4 were in home action against Crumlin and Westmanstown and both claimed victories by 4/0 and 3/1 respectively. Saturday morning saw our 1 rink Division 5 make the short hop down the coast to Greystones where the locals had too much experience for them. On the same afternoon our Division 1 team brought 2 points back from Leinster and Division 2 got an impressive 5 points at home to Railway Union to maintain their impressive start. The week also saw some of our bowlers in action in the ILBA Championships with Niall Shelley scoring a good win at home to the wily old campaigner, Frank McCarthty from CYM. Chris Fenton drew a blank against Gareth Pierpoint from CYM. All competitors in the ILBA Competitions are reminded to take note of the draws and if you cannot play it is common courtesy to advise your opposition.

This week sees plenty of action with Division 2 Wednesday hosting Shankill, Division 6 hosting Westmanstown on Wednesday night. Thursday has 3 Vets teams playing with Vets 2 away to Kenilworth, Vets 3 away to Sportslink and Vets 4 travelling to Trim to take on the Royals from Meath. Saturday, 6th May, has our 1 rink team at home to Greenhills in the morning. In the afternoon Division 1 are at home to CYM 'B' and Division 2 travel away to do battle with Clontarf. On Monday, 8th May, our Division 4 team are at home to Dun Laoghaire. It should be noted that, with effect from last Monday, all evening matches will commence at 6.30pm up until the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News - Wed 19/04/23

Our Division 2 Wednesday team had the honour of being the first Bray team in action in the summer season and they defeated Clontarf by 5 points to 1. Saturday morning last saw monsoon conditions and our Saturday morning 1-rink team saw their fixture against Leinster fall foul of the weather. The Division 2 Saturday team travelled to St. James's Gate and came home thoroughly soaked but with 4.5 points in the bag. Our Division 1 Saturday team had a convincing victory by 6 points to 1 over Meath. Special mention goes to Mark Hughes who travelled up from Galway to play the game and then headed back west immediately after the match.

The action continues apace this week with the Division 2 Wednesday team heading to North County Dublin to take on Skerries. On the same night our Division 6 team travel to ALSAA to lock horns with Aer Lingus on their notoriously tough rink. Thursday morning sèes the Vets make their seasonal debut as Vets 1 travel to Crumlin, Vets 2 have a free day, Vets 3 are at home to Crumlin and Vets 4 are at home to Westmanstown. This coming Saturday sees Division 1 travel to Rathmines to take on Leinster, Division 2 are at home to Railway Union and our 1-rink team make the short trek to Greystones. On Tuesday, 2nd May, Division 4 are away to Kenilworth. As you can see it is wall-to-wall action.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News - Wed 19/04/23

The sparring is over and the summer leagues all kick off this week and the honour of being the first Bray team in action goes to our Wednesday Division 2 team who host Clontarf today (19th). Best of luck to Captain Terri McKeon and her panel. On Saturday we have three teams in action with our Ladies Division 5 Saturday team playing host to Leinster in the morning before our Division 1 team host Meath. The Royals will travel with confidence having won Division 2 last year. On the same day our Division 2 team head to the Iveagh Grounds to take on the old aristocrats, St. James's Gate. On Monday 24th our Division 4 team play host to near neighbours, Greystones. Bragging rights are at stake in this one. Best of luck to all bowlers for the season ahead and remember to treat your teammates and opponents with respect and dignity.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 10/04/23

Saturday last saw the club host the unfurling of the Irish Lawn Bowls Association flag for 2023. Bray holds the Presidency for 2023 and it is a great honour to hold the Presidency in the first year of the ILBA. Tremendous credit must go to the army of volunteers who had everything in pristine condition for the unfurling ceremony, from the immaculately cut hedges to the newly-painted seats and picnic tables. Following the unfurling, a friendly game of bowls took place between a Bray selection and an ILBA selection. A celebratory dinner followed in Bray Golf Club. All thoughts now turn to the start of the summer season on 22nd April of which more next week.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 03/04/23

Another quiet week on the rink. We had the final session of the Wednesday League and Brendan Duffy was confirmed as the winner. Well done to Brendan and thanks to both Eddie and Phyllis for their usual top-class organising skills. The participation level was down on previous years which was somewhat disappointing. The prizes were presented last Friday night and those prize winners who were unable to attend should contact the organisers. The weather was the big winner on Saturday last when a friendly match between Bray and CYM bit the dust due to various downpours during the day.

Next Saturday, 8th April, is a big day for the club with the unfurling of the ILBA flag at 2pm. Bray holds the Presidency of the ILBA for 2023 and we wish our own Frank Devlin all the best for the year as he assumes the role.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 27/03/23

In preparation for the upcoming unfurling of the Irish Lawn Bowls Association flag in Bray on 8th April, a merry band of painters turned up last Wednesday and Thursday to give a lick of paint to all the seats surrounding the rink and also to the tables on the patio. A great job was done by all and Marcus Donohoe was the organiser-in-chief. I am told all are available for hall, stairs and landing jobs !! This Wednesday sees the last day of the Wednesday League and Brendan Duffy and Ann Downhams are the two to catch. The prizes will be presented on Friday night, 31st March. All are welcome to attend. Now that the clock has sprung forward all thoughts are turning to the Summer leagues and the deliberations of the various selectors are awaited in relation to the make-up of the various teams and registered players. Finally, we offer our congratulations to CYM 'A' on winning the Winter League. I am sure they are hoping that a successful Summer season will follow.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 20/03/23

You have all heard no doubt of the Secret Seven, the Seven Samurai and the Magnificent Seven. Well, you can now add the Monsoon Seven. Yes, last Wednesday in the midst of a downpour, seven bowlers who shall be nameless took to the rink in pursuit of points in the Wednesday League. Following the madness Brendan Duffy now leads the pack with one week to go. The lengths people will go to for an Easter egg!! The presentation of prizes has been arranged for Friday 31st March. The club is gearing up for the Presidency of the ILBA and our President, John Dunne, is organising a painting day soon when the seats and outdoor tables will get a make over. More information to follow. The days are lengthening and some bowlers are coming out of hibernation following their winter break. Welcome back all !! Finally a big thanks to those bowlers from Greystones who joined us for the Winter and to say that hopefully we will see you all again in October.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 13/03/23

A very quiet week on all fronts. Roll ups were the order of the week. The Men's Captain Dave McMahon was seen circling the green checking on the talent as the date for registering players and squads approaches. A new broom may well herald a new era and with some new additions the coming season may prove fruitful. The various BLI groupings have been out practising and with the finals in Bray this year the lads are determined to do their utmost to have some home representation. Friday saw snow on the rink but not enough to have Frosty play as lead. Saturday saw a deluge and most bowlers stayed inside but we had two intrepid bowlers who shall be nameless take to the rink. Me thinks they were waiting for Noah to come along and whisk them away.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 06/03/23

The Bray adventure in the Winter League came to an end last Saturday in Sportslink when Bray 'B' went down 50/36 to Leinster Lions 'A' in the quarter final. Bray fought the brave fight and led for much of the game but came up short in the end. Bernie Tracey led her rink to a great victory and John Gilliland also impressed on his rink. The team would like to thank all the supporters who made the long trek to the north side of Dublin. Last Thursday saw a great crowd turn up to clean and spray the ditches. Our President John Dunne was a man possessed with the powerhose in his hand. A huge big thanks to Theresa Martin who fed the masses with soup and sandwiches.

The Wednesday League is now nearing the finishing line and after last week we have Ann Downhams and Margaret Williams separated by 1 point. This is going all the way folks and there are some others who, with a kind draw and lady luck, could scoop the top prize. Finally, last Saturday both the BLI and LBLI met in separate but simultaneous meetings to vote on a proposed merger and in an historic day for Irish bowling both organisations passed the motion. This is without doubt a momentous decision and watch this space for further details.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 27/02/23

Another quiet week on the rink this week. Our Greystones members are still turning up in great numbers every Monday afternoon and we have gotten excellent feedback from them. Thanks to Fergus O'Brien for all his efforts and organisational skills here. The finishing line is in sight now for the Wednesday League. There are 5 weeks to go and the top of the leaderboard is like the M50 on a Friday evening - crowded. 5 points separate the top 7. Currently Ann Downhams on 68 points leads Margaret Williams by 2 points. Terri McKeon, Liz Mc Carthty, Brendan Duffy, Fergus O'Brien and Richard Birney are close behind.

Volunteers are required on Thursday morning to clean out the ditches and power wash the mats. Be there for 9.30 am suitably attired. The quarter-final of the Winter League is on this Saturday in Sportslink with Bray 'B' taking on the star-studded Leinster Lions 'A'. Best of luck to the team and all of Bray is rooting for you. This Saturday also sees two very important meetings taking place with both the BLI and LBLI meeting to vote on the proposed merger of both organisations to form the Irish Lawn Bowling Association.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 20/02/23

A very quiet week on the rink this week. There was no competitive team action as all group games in the Winter League have been completed. Bray 'B' qualified from their group and in the quarter-final draw Bray were paired against Leinster Lions 'A'. The game will take place in Sportslink in Santry on Saturday, 4th March. Our representative in the Champion of Champions Niall Shelley came a cropper in the quarter final against Darren Richards from CYM. Niall made a slow start and despite a great fightback he went down 14/18. Better luck in the summer version, Niall. The rollups continue apace this week and thanks again to our Winter members from Greystones who are great supporters.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 13/02/23

This week saw the Wednesday League continue with sun-drenched weather. The top of the table is populated by our Winter members from Greystones who this year are determined to bring the top prizes down the coast. Saturday saw the last of the group matches in the Winter League take place and both Bray 'B' and 'C' were in home action against Blackrock 'B' and Dun Loaghaire 'C' respectively. Our 'B' team needed a big win to secure one of the best runner up spots in order to progress to the quarter-final stage. Blackrock were very competitive on the day with Maurice Treacy's rink defeating Tommy Cahill's rink with the last bowl to secure a point for the visitors. The BLI Secretary Charlie Lynch from Blackrock gave an heroic display on his rink but ultimately fell short. The home team, with 4 points, should make it through. Bray 'C' defeated Dun Laoghaire 5/0 to finish their campaign on a high. All rinks were on form on the day with Mark Hughes particularly impressive.

This week also sees Niall Shelley in quarter-final action in the Champion of Champions when he travels to Leinster to face Darren Richards of CYM. Best of luck to Niall. We have no more competitive action until 4th March when the quarter-finals of the Winter League are scheduled to take place.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 06/02/23

A busy week on the rink this week but a poor return on the results front. Bray 'A' finished their Winter League campaign with a home defeat to Leinster 'A' and finished in third place in their section. Eamonn Kennedy's rink got Bray's only point. Bray 'C' were in action on the double over the weekend. On Saturday they were up against a strong Blackrock team who left Bray with 4 points. Brendan Duffy and his rink got the home team's only point. On Sunday Bray were away to Leinster Lions who use Bray as their home ground. The Lions roared on the day and took all 5 points on offer. Bray 'C' finish their campaign next Saturday at home to Dun Laoghaire. Bray 'B' are at home to Blackrock where a 5 point victory should see them qualify for the quarter finals as one of the best second placed teams. No pressure so !!

The Wednesday League is continuing and a big thank you to John Keegan from Greystones for baking some lovely cakes last week. You are always welcome John! This week also saw two of our members, Dick Fowler and Aidan King, make their long awaited return to the rink after long-term illness. Welcome back lads. Also our Men's Captain, Dave McMahon, has returned home along with his new knee. Remember, Dave, do your rehab and we will see you soon.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 30/01/23

A mixed day at the office last Saturday as all 3 Bray teams were in action in the Winter League. Team 'A' travelled to Kenilworth and brought home 1 point. They lost the overall by 1 shot. The defeat means that they are chasing one of the best runner-up spots in order to advance to the quarter-finals. Team 'B' travelled to Leinster to take on CYM 'A' and in damp conditions they defeated the section winners 4/1 and. with one game to play. they are in a strong position to claim a best runner-up spot. Both Tommy Cahill and Alan Rath skipped their rinks to victory. Team 'C' were at home to Leinster Lions and got 2 points. They have 3 games left and they are nicely positioned in mid-table.

This Saturday sees Team 'A' host Leinster 'A' in a must-win game. Team 'B' have a rest day. Team 'C' are in action on the double this weekend as they host Blackrock on Saturday and on Sunday they are away to Leinster Lions. As Leinster Lions use Bray as their home rink Bray don't have far to travel !! Our representative in the Champion-of-Champions, Niall Shelley, had a very good 18/5 win over Will Tormey from Sportslink to advance to the quarter-finals where he will face Darren Richards from CYM.

Frank Devlin, Bray Bowling Club.

Bray Bowling News 23/01/23

In the week that Jack Frost visited and, let it be said he outstayed his welcome, the rink was closed until Saturday last. Bray 'A' hosted Herbert Park in the All Weather Bowling League and they bagged 4 points to maintain their grip on second place in Section 'A'. Well done to Elizabeth Eager and Sally Ryan both of whom made impressive debuts for the home side.

Next Saturday sees the team travel to Kenilworth hoping to maintain their push to reach the knockout stages. Bray 'B' travel to face the big hitters from CYM 'A' where a win would boost their chances of advancing to the next stage. Bray 'C' host Leinster Lions 'A' in what will be a good test for the home team. The Wednesday League is back up and running and all are welcome to come and play. The league will run through until mid March and as usual the prizes on offer are second to none !!

Frank Devlin

Bray Bowling News 16/01/23

A convoy of cars left Bray last Saturday all bound for Rathmines where the 3 Bray All Weather Bowling League teams were in action. Bray 'A' and Bray 'C ' headed to Leinster and Bray 'B' to Kenilworth. All in all it was a successful expedition as Bray 'A' took all 5 points home against Leinster 'A'. Bray 'B ' got 2 points against Kenilworth 'B' and Bray 'C' got 3 points against Leinster 'B'. Both our 'A' and 'B' squads are still in there with a fighting chance of making the knock-out stages. This coming Saturday sees the 'A' team play host to Herbert Park and they will be looking to keep the momentum going. The other 2 squads have a rest day.

Our representative in the Champion-of-Champions competition, Niall Shelley, plays his first round match on Tuesday at home to Willie Tormey of Sportslink. Best of luck to him. There is quite a large number of medals still to be collected from the recent presentation. Contact Owen Byrne who says he will melt them all down soon if not collected! You have been warned! Finally well done to the 15 souls who braved tough conditions to play in the Wednesday League last week. They had dried out by Friday!

Frank Devlin

Bray Bowling News 09/01/23

The Christmas lights have been taken down and the last of the pudding eaten so the bowlers are back in action. Bray Bowling Club celebrated Nollaig na Mban with the presentation of medals won in 2022. A good crowd turned up as medals were presented to the winners of the Shott Cup, Division 5, Vets 1 and 3. Well done to President John Dunne (complete with chain of office) and Honorary Secretary Niall Shelley for doing the honours. A special thank you to the photographer from the Bray People for coming along on the night.

Saturday saw two of our teams take to the rink in the All Weather Bowling League with contrasting results. Bray 'A' travelled to Greenhills and got 1 point. Eamonn Kennedy's rink were very unlucky in their match when the opposition skipper saved 3 shots with the very last bowl of the match. Bray 'B' hosted Greenhills 'B' and they took all 5 points on offer to climb to second spot in their section. This coming Saturday sees all 3 teams in action with all 3 travelling to Dublin 6. Both Bray 'A' and Bray 'C' travel to Rathmines to take on Leinster 'A' and 'C' respectively. Bray 'B' travel to Kenilworth to lock horns with the locals. Don't forget the Wednesday League is back and will run to the end of March.

Frank Devlin

Bray Bowling News 19/12/22

The best laid plans were frozen out this week as the eagerly awaited Wednesday League shoot-out between Gabriel Cahill and Ritchie Doyle fell victim to the frost. In fact the whole week was lost to the evil Jack Frost!! The organisers went into conclave and decided that both Gabriel and Ritchie would be joint winners. The presentation went ahead on Friday night along with the Christmas Fun Quiz. Despite a poor turnout a good time was had by all. The brain boxes this year were Terri and Will McKeon along with Phyllis Brett.

The club championship finals took place last weekend and the weather God's looked kindly on all the finalists. There was a very good attendance over the course of the two days. On Saturday we had some thrilling matches with two of them going down to the wire. In the Ladies 2 Bowl Singles Marge O'Leary showed all her experience by defeating Therea Martin 21/20 in an absolute thriller. In the Mixed Trips the team of Frank Byrne/Terri McKeon/Marcus Donohue had a 15/14 win over Ger Minogue/Ann Downhams/Eamonn Kennedy. Peter Gough retained his 2 Bowl Singles title defeating Patrick Brosnan 21/14 and in the Men's 4 Bowl Pairs Niall Shelley and Ger Hollingsworth overcame Walter Doyle and Shane Martin.

Sunday saw 5 finals taking place and, in the morning session, John Dunne defeated his mentor Walter Doyle in the handicap singles. In the Ladies 2 Bowl Pairs Theresa Martin/Marge O'Leary defeated Patsy Campbell/Terri McKeon. This was Theresa's third win on the trot in this competition. The Men's 2 Bowl Pairs saw Eoghain Brady/Brendan Duffy overcome Roddy O'Leary/Ewen Cronin where everything hinged on the last bowls from Eoghain and Roddy. The afternoon saw the blue riband finals of both the Ladies and Gents Championships. Phyllis Brett and Breeda Keogh served up a thriller in the ladies final and Phyllis overturned a large deficit to claim yet another Ladies Championship. In the Men's final Niall Shelley claimed a first title when defeating Patrick Brosnan. Both Niall and Phyllis will represent Bray in the Champion of Champions competition next year. There is no pressure on Niall but Bray are the defending champions !!!.

A big thank you goes to the organisers for all their great work and for having a direct line to Met Eireann in Millibar Mansions. A period of reflection will now follow until the commencement of the Winter League on 15th October.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 19/09/22

The 2022 summer league season is over and the Bray report card is in. Overall it was a successful season with 3 league wins and a cup success to look back on. The trophies and medals will be presented to Bray at the annual BLI Dinner which will take place on Friday 4th November in CYM Bowling Club. The club will then hold its own presentation night on Friday 11th November when all the medals will be presented to the individual bowlers. Another date to put in the Diary is Friday 18th November when the AGM will take place and the positions of President, Treasurer and Secretary will have to be filled.

This coming weekend sees the club championships reach their conclusion with finals taking place on Saturday and Sunday 24th and 25th September. The timetable has not been announced yet but we do know that the two blue riband events i.e. the Men's and Ladies' Championship finals will take place on Sunday afternoon. In the Men's final Patrick Brosnan and Niall Shelley will go head to head and, as both are first time finalists, we will have a new name on the Honours Board. The Ladies final sees the experienced duo of Phyllis Brett and Breeda Keogh do battle. A number of bowlers have qualified for 2 finals so they will be busy over the weekend. A big thank you to the organisers who did a great job in getting all the matches played and for communicating everything in a very timely manner. We will have a full report on the finals next week.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 12/09/22

The 2022 summer season concluded on Sunday last with Bray claiming victory in the Shott Cup. In an exciting final played in North Kildare our heroes, under the captaincy of Owen Byrne, defeated CYM. Well done to the whole squad.

On Saturday last both Division 1 and 2 were in action against Railway Union and Meath respectively. In leafy Sandymount, despite defeating Bray 5/2, Railway Union were relegated. In Bray the champions, Meath, were the visitors and they showed their class with a comprehensive win against the locals. Bray had to wait for other results to come in before their survival in Division 2 was confirmed. Division 1 played their final game on Sunday at home to Crumlin and suffered their second defeat in as many days. Crumlin's victory saw them win Division 1 by 0.5 of a point over CYM. Thoughts now turn to the club championships with some finalists known and more semi-finals to be played this week. Further details will follow next week.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 05/09/22

Another good week on the rink with our Division 5 team clinching the league title with a comprehensive win at home over North Kildare. Well done to Owen Byrne and his crew. A feature of the win was that all new members this season got game time. Division 4 finished the season away to Westmanstown where the locals proved too hot to handle. Thursday saw all 4 Vets teams take on Dun Laoghaire and over the 4 games Bray won 3 and drew 1. Vets 1 and 3 both of whom won their respective leagues had a celebratory breakfast before their home games against Dun Laoghaire and thanks to John Dunne and his fellow chefs for doing the honours. In the matches that followed Vets 1 drew their game. Vets 3 won their game in style thus finishing the season with a 10 point victory margin. In Dun Laoghaire, Vets 2, for the third week running, claimed victory on the last end with Ray Rigley bowling 2 crackers to seal a 3/1 win and a third place finish. It was a case of what might have been for them. Vets 4 also won 3/1 to finish mid-table.

On Saturday the monsoons arrived and dispelled the myth that bowling is a genteel, dry weather sport. Division 2 travelled to St. James's Gate and got 1 point to stay 3 points ahead of CYM with one game to play in the battle to avoid relegation. In Bray our Division 1 team got 2 points against Westmanstown. At both venues it would not have been a surprise if Noah and his ark had arrived to pick up 2 bowlers !!!

This coming Saturday sees Division 1 travel to Railway Union in their last away game and, in their last match, Division 2 face Meath at home in a crucial game. Sunday 11th sees the Shott Cup Final take place in North Kildare where Bray take on CYM which we hope will be a great finale to the season.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 29/08/22

A very good week for the club with both Vets 1 and Vets 3 claiming league titles last Thursday with 1 game to spare. Vets 1 defeated a strong CYM team at home and Vets 3 overcame Greenhills, also at home. Both teams will celebrate their wins with a celebratory breakfast before they both face Dun Laoghaire at home on Thursday in their last match. Vets 2 and 4 travelled to Westmanstown where Vets 2 recorded a good win to maintain their quest for third place. Well done to Frankie Byrne for answering the last minute call to arms and also to Dean Kenny who put in a man-of-the-match performance on the day. On the day Vets 4 found the locals too hot to handle. Both travel to Dun Laoghaire on Thursday to complete their programme for the season. The ladies finished up their season by taking a point home from Kenilworth and well done to Michael/Michelle Dunne for his contribution throughout the season! Division 4 got 5 points at home to Dun Laoghaire and Division 5 got a great 4 points in Greenhills in a game that finished in near darkness to remain top of the table with one game to play at home to North Kildare. By the time you read this their fate will be known.

Division 4 play away to Westmanstown in their last match. Both Divisions 1 and 2 picked up 1 point each last Saturday away to Kenilworth and home to Skerries. Next Saturday Division 1 face Westmanstown at home and Division 2 travel to St. James's Gate in an early morning start where they could do with picking up some points in their battle to avoid relegation. In a great finale to the week our Shott Cup team qualified for the final after defeating Causeway from Dungarvan 55/36 in the semi-final played on Sunday last. They now face CYM in the final which, more than likely will be played next, week.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 22/08/22

The midpoint of August has passed and, with the nights closing in, the finishing line for the 2022 Summer season is in sight. On Monday last, Division 4 made the short hop down the coast to Greystones and unfortunately returned home empty-handed. Division 5 hosted an understrength Kenilworth and had a comprehensive victory to remain top of the table with 2 games to go. On Wednesday the ladies were at home to Leinster in their last home game of the season where they picked up 2 points. Thursday saw all 4 Vets teams take to the rink with contrasting fortunes. Vets 1 got 3 points away to Westmanstown to remain on course to take the title. Vets 2 defeated Kenilworth at home to remain steady in mid-table. Vets 3 were defeated away to Westmanstown and are still hanging tough at the top of the table. Vets 4 defeated Crumlin at home where Adrian Flaherty made an impressive debut for the home team. On Saturday last Division 1 took 2 points at home to Blackrock to remain in mid-table. Division 2 ventured north to Drumcondra to take on Ierne and got 1 point to continue their battle against relegation.

This Wednesday sees the ladies play their last match of the season away to Kenilworth. Thursday has Vets 1 and 3 at home to CYM and Greenhills in two vital matches in both teams' quest for league honours. Vets 2 and 4 head west on the M4 to Westmanstown. Saturday has Division 1 travel to Kenilworth and Division 2 are at home to fellow seasiders, Skerries. Monday, 29th August, has both Division 4 and 5 play their final games away to Westmanstown and home to North Kildare. Hopefully Division 5 will be celebrating come 8.30pm.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 15/08/22

The country sizzled this week in a heatwave and the various Bray teams turned on the heat this week as well. On Monday last Division 4 took 5 points at home to Ierne and Division 5 took 1.5 points at home to Leinster. They are still top of the table with 3 games to go and their fate rests in their own hands. On Thursday last Vets 1 and 3 were at home to Crumlin and CYM 'C' respectively and both claimed all the points on offer. Both teams top their leagues again with 3 games to go and, like Division 5, they control their own destiny. Vets 2 made the short hop to Shankill and suffered an agonising defeat on the last end on both rinks. Vets 4 hit the M4 to North Kildare and acquitted themselves well by taking 1 point. On Saturday our Division 1 team took 2 points back from CYM but they will be disappointed in not getting the overall victory as they went down by 1 shot. Our Division 2 team are certainly putting up a great fight to avoid relegation and took 6 points at home to Clontarf. The victory takes them above CYM in the fight for survival.

This Wednesday has the ladies at home to Leinster in their second last match of the season. On Thursday Vets 1 and 3 travel to Westmanstown and both hope to continue their good form. Vets 2 and 4 host Kenilworth and Crumlin respectively. On Saturday next Division 1 are at home to Blackrock and Division 2 travel to Drumcondra to tackle Ierne. Monday 22nd August sees Division 4 host Dun Laoghaire and Division 5 have a tough game away to Greenhills. The club championships are moving along nicely and are practically at the quarter-final stage for all competitions. Well done to the organisers for cracking the whip and keeping everyone on track.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Another hectic week on the bowling green. On Monday last our Division 4 team were at home to Blackrock and unfortunately they suffered a comprehensive beating. The same night our Division 5 team made the short trip to Dun Laoghaire and returned with all 6 points to remain in second place in the league. Our ladies travelled to Blackrock on Wednesday and brought home 1 point courtesy of Breeda Keogh's rink. Every Thursday is Vets Day and our 4 teams were in action. Vets 1 had an excellent win away to St. James's Gate where Richie Doyle made an impressive debut. Vets 2 were at home to high-flying Meath and got 3 points to stay in second place behind the Royals. Vets 3 made the short hop to Greystones and got 1 point where Bob Neilson made a winning start as skip. Finally Vets 4 defeated Clontarf at home and they could figure in the final shake up yet. Saturday brought contrasting fortunes for our 2 senior teams with Division 1 taking all 7 points at home to Railway Union. Pat Crinnion put in a sound performance on his first appearance. Division 2 travelled to Trim to take on Meath bereft of a number of established players and were soundly beaten.

This Wednesday the ladies host CYM and on Thursday Vets 1 are at home to Crumlin, Vets 2 are away in Blackrock, Vets 3 are home to Crumlin and Vets 4 away to Westmanstown. Saturday sees the turn-around in Divisions 1 and 2 with Division 1 hosting Leinster and Division 2 travelling to Greenhills. Monday 11th July has Division 4 in Crumlin and Division 5 in Blackrock. The club championships are up and running and already a big name or two has bitten the dust. More details in the future.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 27/06/22

Midsummer has come and gone and the bowling season has, in some cases, reached the half way stage. On Monday of last week our Division 4 team had an impressive home win against Westmanstown to maintain a top three place and Division 5 travelled to the plains of Kildare and came home with 5 points to sit proudly in second place in their league. On Wednesday the ladies defeated Westmanstown at home 4/3 to climb to second spot. Thursday saw the 4 Veterans teams take on Dun Laoghaire with Divisions 2 and 4 celebrating home wins and Divisions 1 and 3 both going down away. By coincidence the score in all 4 games was 3/1 to the home teams. Thursday saw the draw for the club championships take place and a good crowd attended and we can look forward to some mouth watering contests in the weeks ahead. Both Division 1 and 2 were in action last Saturday with Division 1 away to Westmanstown where they got 1 point courtesy of Marcus Donahue's rink. The man himself was in scintillating form on the day. Division 2 took 2 points at home to St. James's Gate.

This coming week sees the ladies travel to Blackrock and the 4 Vets teams take on SJG, away, Meath at home, Greystones away and Clontarf at home respectively. Saturday sees Division 1 at home to Railway Union and Division 2 make the long trek to Trim to take on the Royals of Meath. July is nearly upon us and on American Independence Day 4th July Division 4 travel to tackle the money men from Bank of Ireland and Division 4 welcome Westmanstown to Bray. Finally good luck to our representatives in the BLI Junior Championships who are in action over the next week.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 13/06/22

Bray Bowling News 28/02/22

This week saw our representative in the Champion of Champions, Niall Shelley, take on Kevin Marshall from Clontarf in the quarter finals and Niall emerged victorious 18/10. He will now play Peter McArdle from Greenhills in the semi final. Keep it going, Niall. (Images.) Our Novice team played host to Crumlin last Sunday in the challenge series. Brendan Adamson, Paul Martin, Alan Hopkins and John Gilliland were outstanding in a good win for Bray. The game also saw a first appearance for Adrian Flannery. Next Sunday sees the team play Westmanstown at 11am in Bray.

Our Wednesday League is moving along nicely with Phyllis Brett still holding onto top spot. She is being closely pursued by Gabriel Cahill, Liz Mc Carthty, Niall Shelley and Mark Hughes. Next Saturday sees our Winter League "B" squad head to Greenhills to take on Skerries in the quarter final of the Winter League. Here is hoping Bray will come out on top in the battle of the seaside towns.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 21/02/22

Last Saturday saw the conclusion of the group stages in the Winter League 2021/22. Bray "A" finished their campaign with a win against Blackrock "B". They finished in third place in a very competitive section. The "B" squad cemented their place as Group 2 winners by taking 4 points on the road away to Dun Laoghaire "A". They now play against Skerries in Greenhills on 5th March in the quarter finals. Best of luck to all involved.

Last Wednesday saw up to 24 bowlers take to the rink and at the end of the day the experienced Phyllis Brett lead from Gabriel Cahill, Liz Mc Carthty and Niall Shelley. Next Sunday sees the Bray Novices take on Crumlin on Sunday in the BLI Challenge Series. All support is welcome.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 14/02/22

A quiet week on the rink this week with both Winter League teams idle. This coming Saturday sees the last matches in the group stages for both squads. The "A" squad finish their campaign with a home game against Blackrock "B". The squad are guaranteed to finish in third place in what was a very competitive group. Well done to all involved. The "B" squad finish with an away match against Dun Laoghaire. The squad are guaranteed to win their group and they await the quarter final draw with interest.

Last Wednesday saw approximately 40 bowlers take to the rink in the Wednesday League and a familiar face has regained the lead. The wily old campaigner, Phyllis Brett, leads Gabriel Cahill by 1 point. Still a long way to go but the battle lines are well and truly drawn. Finally, members should check out the great work that Owen Byrne and John Dunne have done with the benches and barrels for the outdoor entertaining. They wouldn't turn down any offers of help!!

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 07/02/22

A very busy week on the rink with over 30 bowlers at the Wednesday League last week. Gabriel Cahill is the current leader, with Phyllis Brett, Liz McCarthty and Niall Shelley hot on his heels.

The weather was the winner this week with the numbers down for the Wednesday roll up. There were only 18 bowling this week which was well down from the previous week. An update on the leaderboard will be available next week. Last Saturday saw the final joint practice session before the Winter League starts next weekend. There was a good turn out and the selectors will have late nights ahead. Bray "B" are first in action next Saturday when they travel to Rathmines to take on Leinster "A". This is the first competive fixture for any Bray team since late February 2020. We wish the team good luck. Finally,next Friday 29th October sees a social taking place to celebrate Halloween and also to wish Ann Downhams bon voyage as she returns to South Africa for their summer (no jealously now). Ann will be back in the spring of 2022. Fancy dress is optional but Mick Dunne will be decked out in his best bib and tucker!

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling News 18/10/21

This week the Wednesday roll up took pride of place with 39 bowlers taking to the rink all hoping to gain points to help them top the table come Christmas time. Patsy Campbell was in outstanding form on the day. The organisation was top class and also it was great to see so many bowlers from Greystones come along. Once again on Thursday Adrian Flaherty was a member of the winning team in the roll up. This man is a cash machine and with his luck he should buy a lotto ticket!!! On Saturday last a practice match took place between the two Bray squads entered in the forthcoming Winter League. All went well and the selectors will have a hard task ahead in picking their respective teams. A further practice game will take place this coming Saturday at 11am.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

Bray Bowling Club is back in to the swing of things following a long shut down due to the Corona Virus. With the railings surrounding the grounds freshly painted and the hedges all pruned back thus allowing members of the public a clear view of the proceedings and our two new signs seeking new members taking pride of place the members are delighted to be back bowling. The club championships are reaching the business end and all competitions are at the semi final stage. The finals are scheduled for the weekend of 25/26 September and will be fully reported on. In the meantime the club has entered two teams into the forthcoming All Weather Bowling League which is due to start in October and all are looking forward to the resumption of competitive bowling. In a novel roll up competition held last Saturday where points were awarded for the bowl touching the jack and points awarded for the three bowls closest to the jack victory went to the Eoghain Brady led team where newcomer Adrian Flaherty had a game to remember. Another newcomer John Gilliland also did well on the day. Thanks to Pat Crinnion for coming up with the concept and for his patience on the day. The fun will continue for the next two Saturdays.

Frank Devlin, hon.sec.

25/8/21: Bray Cup Final Photos

With the pandemic still ongoing Bray held their own internal cup. In the final, Marcus Donohoe's team triumphed over the John Cheevers-led opposition. Some images of the match can be viewed here.

27/7/21: Baird Cup (Round 2) Photos

In the second round of the BLI senior trips (Baird) cup on a hot morning in Failte Park, Bray's John Cheevers' and his team (Niall Shelley, Peter Gough) defeated a useful Railway Union trio (Adam Kells, Ciaran Carrick, Derek Kells) 18-13. Some images of the match can be viewed here.

4/7/21: Baird Cup Photos

Recently a Bray team captained by John Cheevers took on an outfit from Ierne in the BLI senior trips (Baird) cup in Failte Park. While the home side raced into a healthy lead the visitors never gave up and were able to stage a late rally. It finished 22-16 to Bray. Some images of the match are here. There's also some shots of a roll-up that took place at the same time.

25/6/21: Today FM Podcast

Sean Keegan of Crumlin BC introduces bowling on Today FM.

23/6/21: Awakening from Lockdown

Our latest Youtube video: Awakening from Lockdown.

12/6/21: Roddy O'Leary's Image Archive

Our BLI rep, Roddy O'Leary, was quite active on the camera down through the years and the best of his photos are now on our website. Quite a bit of help was needed to put names to the faces with Fran Neilson being outstanding in this regard. She was ably assisted by Roddy & Pam O'Leary, Phyllis Brett, Eddie O'Sullivan and Richard Neilson. Patrick Brosnan handled the technological side of things. Thanks to all for their efforts. Roddy's images can be found here.

26/5/21: New Sign

Club welcome sign.

Bray's new club sign is thanks to the hard work of Marcus Donohoe, Owen Byrne, Tiernan Kavanagh and Chris Fitzgerald. We always welcome new members.