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The Game of Lawn Bowling

Lawn Bowling is a game which can be played by people of all ages. There is a stereotype that this is a sport for seniors, but we have members of all ages, including a number of youth members. Because the sport is low-impact, it is something that bowlers are physically able to continue into their golden years, making it an ideal sport for a lifetime of enjoyment.

 

The object of the game is to get as many of your bowls - or your team’s bowls - nearer to the little white ball (the Jack) than your opponents. This is similar in some respects to curling or shuffleboard or bocce.

 

The game can be played with one to four players per team, and the number of bowls per player varies according to the table below.

There are published rules, and there is a tradition of gentlemanly etiquette. Skill, technique and experience separate the average player from the excellent one, but the game can be enjoyed by a mix of players of different skill levels.

 

A game lasts about two hours and consists of a pre-determined number of ‘ends’ - delivery of all the bowls from one side of the green to the other by all players. The green or playing field is usually close-cut grass measuring 120 feet in each direction. Seven or eight games can be played on one green at the same time.

 

This is only a basic explanation, and many books on rules, tactics and techniques exist for the asking. The Ontario Lawn Bowling Association website contains additional resources about the sport (click on their logo at left).

 

Equipment

 

Once you have joined a lawn bowling club and have received some training, you will discover that good greens are a most important factor. That is what our membership dues are for, and why you must always wear flat-soled shoes so as not to harm the green. After you are committed to the sport, you will probably buy your own bowls. Every set of four has a different design, and there are eight sizes to choose from. Take your time when selecting your bowls. Use our club bowls for training and discuss your needs with other members and with an qualified sales representative. The club provides its Jacks, rakes and lawn mowers.

 

Players

 

Both men and women play lawn bowls, sometimes separately and sometimes in mixed play. Often, both husband and wife are players. Because of the social aspect of the game, it’s also a great sport for singles or widows and widowers. Whether you are young or old, physically fit or in poor health or with a physical handicap, the low-impact nature of the game should not prevent you from enjoying yourself. Of course, one is never too young to start, and the best tournament players are often younger.

 

A team consists of a Skip (or captain), a Vice (or second) and a Lead (who delivers the first bowl in each end). It is normal for new players to start as Leads and advance to other positions as their skills and experience are acquired. Never forget - a good Lead can mean the difference between victory and defeat in the game of bowls.

Richmond Hill Lawn Bowling Club

Part of the Richmond Hill Community Since 1918