Address from John Bell

Presidents Address

WBA Statement

WBA Statement.

WWBA Statement

BIBC Statement

Bowls Wales Statement

     SENIOR FOURS 2020

www.atlanticseniorfours.com

  Dear Member Nation

The Atlantic Senior Fours 2020 Organising Committee is acutely aware of the many issues facing countries and the MNA’s of World Bowls with the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak.

Governments and Sports organisations are beginning to take drastic measures in order to contain and prevent further spread of the disease, some of which are starting to affect sporting events and general public life.

Taking into account the age demographic of our participants the Committee has decided to suspend invitations to this event.The 30th March deadline date for expressions of interest in participation is therefore now postponed.

The Committee will meet again on 1st June 2020 and reassess the global conditions with regards to Covid-19 and decide whether or not to continue staging the event in 2020 or to defer it to a later date and MNA’s will be notified accordingly. 

Thanks to all who have shown an interest in the event and have been following our updates on our Website and Facebook page and we will publish a further update after 1st June.

Hazel Bagshaw

Event Manager

Organising Committee

Event Manager​​Hazel Bagshaw​              This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tournament Director​Viv Tomlinson​              This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tournament Director​Graham Tomlinson            This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Finance Manager​​Martin McMilllan​              This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Chief Technical Officer​Allan Thornhill​              This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CBH Liaison ​​Ann and Trevor Allman    This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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2020 World Bowls Championships to be postponed indefinitely 

Controlling body World Bowls (WB) and host nation Bowls Australia (BA) have agreed that the 2020 World Bowls Championships be postponed indefinitely as a result of the evolving coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic. 

The event, which was set to be staged on the Gold Coast, Queensland, from May 26 – June 7, and involve 36 competing nations from around the world, has prioritised the health and safety of the public, players, staff, officials and volunteers.

Further to the risk of public exposure, many nations have also implemented strict measures on local and international travel, including Australia, where travellers from overseas are currently being made to self-isolate for at least 14 days.

The intention remains to stage the event at an appropriate time in the future, however, given the current climate around the uncertainty related to the virus, WB and BA are unable to provide an official confirmation of rescheduled dates at this stage.

WB Chief Executive Officer, Gary Smith, said the unfortunate decision was made with the health and safety of the public, players, staff, officials and volunteers as the primary concern.

“Given the uncertainty we face as a global community, we have made the unfortunate, but necessary action related to the 2020 World Bowls Championships,” Smith said.

“This situation is not unique to bowls, with many other sports and competitions around the world taking similar cautionary measures. 

“We believe this is the right decision to minimise the risk of public exposure to the coronavirus, which the World Health Organisation recently declared a global pandemic.”

BA Chief Executive Officer, Neil Dalrymple, said both parties would continue to monitor the situation and liaise with competing countries as to the future staging of the event.

“We have been monitoring the coronavirus situation closely for several months, with advice taken from the relevant stakeholders and government agencies,” Dalrymple said.

“The decision was not made without careful consideration and we firmly believe they have been made in line with the best interests of the public, players, staff, officials and volunteers.

“We are fully aware that athletes, officials and others may have made travel arrangements for this event, but our overriding concern is the health and safety of all involved in the event.”

*ENDS*

For more information, please contact:

Aidan Davis

Bowls Australia

Communications & Marketing Manager

P: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

E: 0432 255 213

Domenic Favata

Bowls Australia

Communications & Digital Coordinator (High Performance)

E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

P: 0431 695 575 

17 March 2020

Dear WSA Member,

This is an update to help with the sector’s contingency planning around Coronavirus, as we know that many of our members will be concerned about staging events, participation and preventing it spreading further.

Latest Government Information

The UK Government yesterday published an action plan to contain the possible spread of the coronavirus.

Welsh Government has also published information including:

·       A statement from Public health Wales (March 4^th)

·       Risk level

·       Returning travellers

·       Overseas visitors to Wales

·       Travel advice

·       Further information

The following tailored advice for the sport sector has been developed:

• There is presently no rationale to close or cancel sporting events, but this may change as the situation evolves, so please keep a close eye on Gov.Wales
• Anyone with flu-symptoms should avoid the risk of spreading their infection, whatever that infection may be, by staying at home and recovering;
• For those hosting sporting events, whatever the size, attendees and participants should stay up to date on the government’s latest advice on how to avoid catching or spreading the virus, which is here;
• As the situation progresses advice may follow for the frail, elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions (to be defined) to stay away from gatherings as part of general advice aimed at minimising unnecessary contact with others; 
• For those travelling to sporting events overseas, the Foreign Office’s travel advice should be followed here and travellers should note that apart from the countries and territories named in that advice, the government is not presently advising against travel to anywhere else;
• For those who offer community and leisure services, such as running a local football team; or running a gym; hand hygiene should be strongly promoted and encouraged and equipment and facilities should be thoroughly cleaned and wiped down as usual following use. We understand that the UK Government is planning to publish specific advice on this shortly;
• There is presently no reason people should stop doing their daily sport and physical activities as they normally would.

Contingency Planning

Our friends in London, the Sport and Recreation Alliance, have issued the following guidance, and while there should be no presumption that one stage will automatically lead to the next it is best practice to think about the different scenarios that may emerge, adding that the following ‘ABC’ approach may be helpful…

A: As you are - Our current state.

• There is no need to cancel or postpone your events at this time;
• Reassure your athletes, stakeholders, and customers, building on the latest Public Health England advice;
• Examine your insurance policies to see what cover you may have should the situation evolve;
• Remain mindful of guidance on infection control in the workplace - catch it, kill it, bin it;
• Take sensible steps to discourage staff with flu-like symptoms from coming to work;

B: Behind closed doors - If the Government finds it necessary to curb travel or large gatherings of people, this is particularly a possible scenario for spectator sports.

• Consider broadcast options and contractual arrangements, if relevant;
• Be mindful of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice which may make it more difficult to bring athletes and their teams into the country;
• Examine your supply chain arrangements, particularly for equipment, and explore contingency plans;
• Determine the minimum number of staff required to safely stage an event and how you would ensure their wellbeing and manage logistics;

C: Cancellation, curtailment, or postponement - If the Government finds it necessary to impose restrictions which make staging an event or providing a service impossible.

• Consider how you would resolve your remaining fixtures and conclude your competition, workforce health permitting;
• Consider how you would deal with cancelled classes, membership, season tickets etc. Make an assessment of the economic impact of lost revenue and share this analysis with Sport Wales. 
• Please also take every step to help keep our nation active. Being fit and healthy can reduce the risk of infection in the first place. Think creatively about how we can maintain activity levels in such a scenario, looking out for steers from Sport Wales/ Welsh Government. 

The Welsh Sports Association would like to reiterate the importance of following advice from Public Health Wales and Gov.Wales when you have queries relating to the impact of coronavirus. 

If you have any comments or queries, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. If you don’t want to receive emails in future, please let us know so that we can remove you from our database.

Best wishes

Kate

Kate Evans | Head of Communications & Policy/ Pennaeth Cyfathrebu & Pholisi

A: National Centre, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff CF11 9SW

WELSH NATIONAL OPEN SINGLES TOURNAMENT 2020

The WBA and WWBA are this year organising an inaugural open 4 wood open singles tournament, this tournament is open to all male and female bowlers who are members of affiliated bowls clubs.

The early rounds up to the quarterfinals will be played on a regional basis with the quarterfinals, semi-finals and finals being played at Llandrindod Wells during the National Finals.

This is a fantastic opportunity for Wales best male and female bowlers to compete against each other to become Wales supreme champion.

The winner and runner up will receive a commemorative trophy.

Please could you circulate this information and entry form to all your member clubs.

John Phillips                                                                        Hazel Wilson

WBA Assistant Secretary.                                                 WWBA Secretary.

Entry Form

2020 National Mixed Pairs Entry Form now available - Please Click on Link  Welsh National Mixed Pairs Entry Form 2020

Congratulations to the following who have been selected for the 2020 International Squads.  Thank you to everyone who attended the trials last weekend and to Llandrindod Wells and Brecon Bowling Clubs for hosting.

Good Luck to all who have been selected in the Junior International trials at Llandrindod Wells on Saturday and in the Senior International trials at Brecon on Sunday.  First Game Rinks selected below:

Good Luck to the Under 18s Test Match Team playing Scotland and Ireland in Belfast on August 20th and 21st

Congratulations to South Glamorgan who beat Mid Wales/Montgomeryshire in the Super 10 Final held in Llandrindod Wells last weekend.  

Good Luck to all competing this weekend in the Semi Finals and Finals.  These will be held at Merthyr West End Bowling Club on Saturday and Sunday 17th & 18th August.  Please Note: The Double Rink Semi Finals and Final and the U25 quarter final due to be held at Islwyn Ladies on Friday 16th has been postponed due to weather.

Click here to view the Finals Weekend Programme

Congratulations to the following who have been selected to play in the Senior Trials on Sunday 1st September at Brecon Bowling Club.  Please arrive for 9.30am to start at 10am.  Dress Code is Regulation White Bottoms (Trousers, Skirts, Tailored Shorts or Cut Offs) and predominantly white tops. Lunch will be provided.  If you are unable to trial, please contact Hazel Wilson - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by return.

Congratulations to the following who have been selected to play in the Junior Trials on Saturday 31st August at Llandrindod Wells Bowling Club.  Please arrive for 9.30am to start at 10am.  Dress Code is Regulation White Bottoms (Trousers, Skirts, Tailored Shorts or Cut Offs) and predominantly white tops. Lunch will be provided.  If you are unable to trial, please contact Hazel Wilson - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by return.

Congratulations to West Wales who emerged winners over Ceredigion at LLandrindod Wells Bowling Club on Sunday in the Welsh Womens County Savegar Trophy Final.  Fourth time lucky for West Wales as they have lost in 3 finals over recent years.  In a very close game the final score was 113 to 106 a win of 7 shots with both teams having 3 winning rinks.

The draws have now been made for the Mens National Finals. Good luck to all involved.

Click here to view the Mens National Finals draws

Congratulations to all the Welsh Team selected to play in the forthcoming test matches in Cardiff on 15th & 16th July and then Berriew on the 18th & 19th July.  All supporters welcome:

Emma Woodcock Cardiff
Hannah Williams Blue Anchor
Laura Daniels Brynhyfryd
Gemma Amos Saundersfoot
Lauren Gowen Porth
Sophie Gittins Berriew
Lauren Selway Gilfach Bargoed
Alis Butten Lampeter
Katie Thomas Whitland
Caroline Taylor Berriew
Emma Gittins Berriew
Bryony Wilson Berriew
Bethan Russ Port Talbot
Sara Marie Nicholls Llandeilo
Wendy Price Llandrindod Wells
Paul Taylor Ely Valley
Jarad breen Aberdare Harlequins
Damien Doubler Penylan
Mark Harding Ely Valley
Danny Davies Jnr Beaufort
Dan Salmon Penylan
Chris Klifenz Beaufort
Owain Dando RTB Ebbw Vale
Kevin James Cardigan
Mark Weaver Montgomery.
Nigel Fleming Machynlleth.
Mark Jones Newtown.
Lee Daniels Pontryhdyfen
Andrew Fleming Machynlleth.
Sam Roff Llandrindod Wells
Luke Harwood Llandrindod Wells
Julie Thomas Port Talbot
Allan Jones Cardiff
Ben Tear Aberaeron
Ben Hopkin Cardigan
Jonathan Hubbard Tenby
Raymond Lillycrop Milford Haven
Gordon Harries Aberaeron
Ian Cole Gilwern
Norman Doel Crickhowel
Matthew Williams Blue Anchor
Erica Price Abergavenny

Wales looks forward to Jackaroo Visit and to welcoming the following players on 15th & 16th July Cardiff - 18th & 19th July Berriew:

Congratulations to the following players selected to represent Wales in the forthcoming Under 25 Series in England

Junior International Team 2019

To take place at Essex County Bowling Club East Sussex

From Friday 13^th  September till Sunday 15^th  September 2019

Congratulations to Berriew Bowling Club's Nerys Lewis, Hazel Wilson, Isabel Jones & Caroline Taylor on runners up in the British Isles Fours and to Saunderfoot Bowling Club's Steph Amos and Gemma Amos runners up in British Isles Pairs played in Jersey last week

Please can clubs contact John Manfield on 07768 393988 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the results of Carruthers Shield matches. Thank you.

Good Luck to the Welsh Women's Senior Team and British Isles Representatives competing in Jersey this weekend.  Click Here for Live Scoring

Thank you to Cowbridge and Castell Newydd Emlyn Bowling Clubs for hosting our practice games.

World Bowls president John Bell and his executive colleagues are delighted to announce the appointment of Hazel Wilson from Wales, one of the UK’s leading lights in bowls administration and resource management, to the organisation’s Board of Directors.

‘It’s a further extension of our resolve to develop the World Bowls talent pool,’ Mr Bell said at the announcement. ‘Hazel is one of the top professionals in her field, a genuine all-rounder, and we’re thrilled to have her wealth of experience, dynamism and positivity on the board.’

A career academic in the field of Adult Education, Business and Training, Hazel Wilson brings more than 20 years of experience and a success proven track record to the role. She has utilised these skills with top results as team manager for the Welsh Women’s Bowls Association at Commonwealth Games, World, Atlantic and international level competitions over the past decade.

A fine player in her own right Hazel has represented Wales with distinction since 1998; won her national singles in 1999; and was crowned British Isles singles champion in 2000.

‘I’ve known Hazel Wilson for many years,’ said World Bowls chief executive Gary Smith. ‘She’s a top professional who knows how to get things done, and her knowledge of bowls is second-to-none. A great asset to our organisation.’

In formalising the announcement, World Bowls president John Bell also paid tribute and expressed great appreciation to Claire Leonard, who relinquished her position as Appointed Director last month.

Congratulations to the Welsh Bowls Team who successfully gained a Gold Medal in the Women's fours and a Bronze Medal in the Womens Pairs, Mens Singles and Mens Fours.  All disciplines finished in the top 6 in their respective groups to qualify for World Bowls 2020 in The Gold Coast.  A tremendous achievement.      Photography by Alis Butten

Owain Dando RTB, Danny Davies Jr Beaufort, Gemma Amos Saundersfoot and Alis Butten Lampeter have been selected to represent Wales in the European Championships which are going to be held in Guernsey this year from September 20th to September 28th 2019. Congratulations and good luck to them all. 

Click here to view or download the 2019 Mixed Pairs draw

Applications are reopened for the position of Welsh Women's Bowling Association Selector.  Please click on the link below to view or download the details to apply.

Welsh Women Selector Job Description

Online ticket sales are now closed. Tickets will be available on the gate for £5 per day - cash only.

Congratulations to the following players selected to represent Wales in the forthcoming Atlantic Championships in Cardiff & Vale.

Men

Singles - Dan Salmon

Pairs - Ross Owen / Dan Salmon

Triples - Ben Thomas / Steve Harris / John Tomlinson

Fours - Ben Thomas / Ross Owen / Steve Harris / John Tomlinson

Ladies

The entry form for the 2019 National Mixed Pairs is now available for you to download. Please click on the link below to download the form. 

DOWNLOAD FORM

Eddie Williams has arranged a markers course to be held at Sully IBC on Sunday 17th February starting at 10.00am until 3.00pm. The cost of the course is £10.00  per person.

To register your interest, please contact Eddie at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.