CHUDLEIGH Bowling Club have enjoyed a good season on and off the green, reports club captain Ian Ramsay.
Despite losing a few players, the club has benefited from a successful recruitment drive and has seen its membership increase overall by about 25% in the last two years. The facility at Chudleigh has been used for two Ladies’ County competitions this season which is a marker for the amount of work that has been put into the green by the green’s team and by outside contractor Max Sandford.
The coaching team has been readily available to assist all players, new and old, with any issues, developments or improvements that individuals feel necessary to improve their game.
Following promotion in season 2023 to MDL Division Two, the club men's team targeted staying at this level. However, results were better than anticipated and as a result, Chudleigh will now be playing in the new and uncharted territory of League One in 2025.
In the SDLL, following relegation from the top division in 2023 and losing some senior players, Chudleigh ladies knew they would be in for a period of rebuilding and guiding players with less experience into playing competitive league bowls. They set out to survive and only narrowly missed out on promotion!
After a number of years of underachievement in the Over 55’s, a well-captained team has proved to be very competitive over the past couple of seasons and is now looking forward with optimism to 2025.
Chudleigh players have had some success in county competitions without managing to take the final step. Margie Wilson reached the semi-final of the ladies over 55 singles. The triple of Norma Webber, Nikki Bustin and Penny Hale reached two quarterfinals in the Major triples and the Benevolent triples.
Nick Goddard got to the quarter-final of the Over 60’s singles and finally, Steve Edwards and Jude Wilson reached the quarters of the mixed pairs.
In club competitions, there were some very close matches in all the disciplines, resulting in some entertaining finals. The club champions for 2024 were Dave Smethurst in the men's and Margie Wilson in the ladies, while in the new “Novice “cup, Steve Hervin was the first winner.
Looking ahead to the winter, there is a programme of indoor friendlies and this winter there will also be a regular weekly Tuesday afternoon club session at the indoor facility at Torquay United. Going further ahead to summer and Chudleigh will be looking to bring along more people, young and old.
Like all small sports clubs, budgets are tight, and costs are increasing. Sponsors will always be welcome so contact club secretary Steve Watkin, whose details are available on the club website, if you’re interested.