Isle of Man County Crown Green Bowling Association

The highly anticipated final of the Jean Kelly competition was played at Onchan Bowling green on Thursday 27th August.

The rather challenging weather conditions included heavy rain & strong winds but in no way dampened the enthusiasm of either the players or the many supporters around the green who were treated to a masterclass of bowling from the Ladies of Castletown A and Nobles, the latter having been given a handicap of 5. The standard of bowling throughout the evening was exemplary with extremely high levels of skills evident and all games were finally balanced.

Becky Teare was first on for Nobles and she eventually triumphed 21-16 over Tracy Moore. Paula Firth & Hilary Kermode had an excellent tussle but it was Hilary who eventually won the game 21-15. Fantastic bowling between Paula Garrett & Stella Watterson resulted in Stella winning 21-17 and Hannah Drewett overcame Nobles’ Debbie Leece to win 21-13. Next up was Sylvia Kennaugh who stormed to victory over the talented Amanda Lawler 21-7, meaning that at the end of the first five games, Nobles took the lead by 92 points to 86.

Jan West was on next for Nobles, but could not get the better of Ann Oates who scored 21 to Jan’s 13. Clare Cooper and Ann Hollingworth also had a fantastic game but it was Ann who came out the eventual winner, 21-15. Ali Keggen played brilliantly against Kim Foy to triumph 21-10 and with the competition poised at 141 to Nobles & 138 to Castletown A, it came down to the final game between Jayne Smith & Kath Kinley who, in the end, had the green to themselves. A further showcase of great bowling but it was Kath who brought it home for the Castletown Ladies 21-14, thus securing the Jean Kelly Shield for the team.

The presentation was made by Sue Gawne, President of the Ladies Association, who thanked Moore Kelly & his family for their continued support of this competition and also for the buffet and refreshments that they supply each year. She also thanked the Club, the supporters and everyone involved in making the evening such a great success. Moore’s Granddaughter, Kate Watson, made a short speech and presented the awards to each team.