Lawn Bowls - A Good Pace To Be - A Little Higher, A Little Further

ATLANTIC CHAMPIONSHIPS - CYPRUS 2011

2011-10-20T18:00:00.020-04:00

Friday Oct 28 11:30 AM
Israel win 20-12 McKerihen, Whitelaw, Santana, Bird out of playoffs. It was close. They nearly got the help that they needed from Jersey but they were edged by Spain 18-17.
The Roth, Roney, Battles, Dittmar team ended on the right note with a 18-11 win over the U.S. It worked out well as our neighbours still snuck into the playoffs with the right temas losing their games.

Friday Oct 28 7:30 AM
Ireland did both Mary Ann Beath and Alex Scott in by defeating them 21-7 and 21-14 respectively. It was the winner take all in the women's game. Ireland will head to the playoffs, Canada to the beach.
I am not privy to why Wales are dropped from the final standings. By points their Singles player would be in the men's playoffs. To be determined.

Thursday Oct 27 3:00 PM EDT
McKerihen,Whitelaw, Santana, Bird took step number one by beating the USA 23-13 in a late afternoon game. That moves them into 3rd position ahead of the idle Spain team. The stage is set for the run to the playoffs. Jersey's upset of the undefeated English team 19-16 opened the door for Israel to jump ahead of England and finish in 1st by beating CANADA tomorrow. That puts even more importance on this last game in RR play. The upstart Jersey foursome won't make the playoffs but they could prove to be handymEn for McKerihen and crew by knocking Spain to the sidelines. But that isn't what the Canadian team will be thinking. Beat Israel, tie England with 9 Match Points ( the English differential is too high to overtake for 2nd ) and gear up for another day of play. Game time 6:00 AM EDT.

Thursday Oct 27
The die is being cast. Busy with the preparations for the exciting Zoomer Bowls Show in Toronto but keeping an eye on the proceedings on the Island.
Steve McKerihen, George Whitelaw, Steve Santana, Pat Bird are for real in a competitive section which is shaping up as a 4 team race for 3 positions. A lost to Spain in the first round but a big tie against the undefeated English side leaves Canada on the playoff ladder. They have a 'must win ' game later to-day against the USA and the 'decider?' vs Israel tomorrow.
Mary Ann Beath has a chance for the playoff round. Jersey's Chris Grimes and Claire Johnston of Scotland are in and will play each other to decide the bye to the semifinals. The next best scenario for the final round is to have 4 teams with 2-3 records to play each other to decide the one team moving forward.
Mary Ann has to beat Ireland and have Netherlands knock off Wales.
Alex Scott beat the Netherlands and had a good match against Guernsey but he will be at rest after tomorrows game.
Meanwhile the Women's Fours team of Erin Roth, Jean Roney, Shannon Battles, Kylah Dittmar started out strong with a good tussle with the undefeated South African squad and just got nipped 14-15 by the Netherlands but the air is slowly seeping out of the tournament balloon.

MEN'S FOURS

Section 2

Round 1 Spain 26 CANADA 12

Round 2 CANADA 20 Jersey 17

Round 3 CANADA 13 England 13

Round 4 bye

Round 5 CANADA 17 Netherlands 12

Round 6 CANADA 23 USA 13
Round 7 Israel 20 CANADA 12

STANDINGS
1. ISRAEL 5-1 10MP

2. ENGLAND 4-1-1 9MP
3. SPAIN 4-2 8MP
4. CANADA 3-2-1 7MP

5. JERSEY 2-4 4MP -11

6. USA 2-4 4MP -33

7. NETHERLANDS 0-6 0MP

WOMEN'S SINGLES
Section 2
Round 1 Scotland 21 CANADA 8
Round 2 Jersey 21 CANADA 8
Round 3 CANADA 21 Cyprus 13
Round 4 Bye
Round 5 CANADA 21 Netherlands 9
Round 6 Wales 21 CANADA 14
Round 7 Ireland 21 CANADA 7

STANDINGS
1. JERSEY 6-0 12MP
2. SCOTLAND 5-1 10MP
3. IRELAND 3-3 6MP +11
4. WALES 3-3 6MP +9
5. CANADA 2-4 4MP -27
6. NETHERLANDS 2-4 4 MP -43
7. CYPRUS 0-6 0MP

MEN'S SINGLES
Section 1
Round 1 Spain 21 CANADA 13
Round 2 CANADA 21 Netherlands 16
Round 3 Guernsey 21 CANADA 18
Round 4 Bye
Round 5 South Africa 21 CANADA 14
Round 6 Wales 21 CANADA 4
Round 7 Ireland 21 CANADA 14

STANDINGS
1. SOUTH AFRICA 5-1 10MP +68
2. IRELAND 5-1 10MP +36
3. WALES 4-2 8MP ??
4. GUERNSEY 3-3 6MP +1 ??
5. SPAIN 2-4 4MP
6. CANADA 1-5 2MP -37
7. NETHERLANDS 1-5 2MP -60

WOMEN'S FOURS
Section 2
Round 1 South Africa 17 CANADA 13
Round 2 Netherlands 15 CANADA 14
Round 3 Jersey 23 CANADA 9
Round 4 Cyprus 21 CANADA 13
Round 5 CANADA 18 USA 11

STANDINGS
1. SOUTH AFRICA 5-0 10MP
2. CYPRUS 3-2 6MP
3. USA 2-3 4MP -3
4. JERSEY 2-3 4MP -6
5. NETHERLANDS 2-3 4MP -19
6. CANADA 1-4 2MP

Sunday Oct 23

SEMIFINALS

WOMEN'S TRIPLES

SCOTLAND 19 SPAIN 10

ENGLAND 18 SOUTH AFRICA 15
FINALS
SCOTLAND 18 ENGLAND 11

MEN'S TRIPLES

SCOTLAND 14 CYPRUS 10

ENGLAND 12 SOUTH AFRICA 11
FINALS
ENGLAND 14 SCOTLAND 11

WOMEN'S PAIRS

SCOTLAND 17 SPAIN 13

SOUTH AFRICA 31 USA 8
FINALS
SCOTLAND 20 SOUTH AFRICA 12

MEN'S PAIRS

SOUTH AFRICA 17 SCOTLAND 7

IRELAND 20 JERSEY 5
FINALS
SOUTH AFRICA 13 IRELAND 10

Saturday Oct 22 FOUR FOR FOUR PLAY ON.
Ring around the Rosie.
We all fall down.
Although George Whitelaw and Alex Scott beat South Africa ( my pick for Gold ) as did Steve McKerihen, Steve Santana, Pat Bird over Cyprus in the Round Robin there will be no rubber match.
And Erin Roth, Jean Roney and Shannon Battles lost to Scotland in the 1/4's who I predict will win the Gold. Finally Mary Ann Beath, Kylah Dittmar won their way to the dance but didn't make the short list.
You play to put yourself in a position to medal. They all did that in the first half of competition.

It is a random draw by the 2nd and 3rd place finishers in each section of the event.

QUARTERFINALS

9:00 AM [ Canada EDT 2:00 AM ]

WOMEN'S TRIPLES

SCOTLAND 17 CANADA 8

ENGLAND 14 WALES 13

9:00 AM

MEN'S TRIPLES

CYPRUS 18 CANADA 8

[Canada beat Cyprus 11-10 in the RR ]

SOUTH AFRICA 16 WALES 13

1:00 PM [ Canada EDT 6:00 AM ]

WOMEN'S PAIRS

SPAIN 21 CANADA 14

USA 23 NETHERLANDS 10

1:00 PM

MEN'S PAIRS

SOUTH AFRICA 23 CANADA 10

[ Canada beat South Africa 27-18 in RR ]

IRELAND 18 ENGLAND 10

Friday PM Erin Roth, Jean Roney, Shannon Battles nary had time to relax in any game they played in the RR. The big gap was by 5 over Jersey but the rest were 3 over England, a loss to the undefeated South Africa team by 2 and two squeakers in their last two games by one. Cyprus and the USA were close but a good sign is with the team walking off with pressure wins. A solid 2nd place finish was the result in a competitive section.
The McKerihen, Santana, Bird trio were the only Canadian to lose on the final day but they had the hot top English side and 'got a little help from their friends'. Canada kept it reasonably close, 9-14, and Guernsey were king makers and heart breakers by edging Israel 13-12. An Israel victory would have pushed Canada out of the playoffs and although Guernsey tied Canada with 6 Match Points, Canada prevailed with a +1 to -7 differential in this exciting conclusion.
Friday Oct. 21 Yo baby. George Whitelaw and Alex Scott along with Mary Ann Beath and Kylah Dittmar got up full of vim and vigour and had a tasty treat for breakfast. Whitelaw and Scott knocked off the undefeated South African team 27-18, clinched their quarterfinal berth and relegated the SA team to the same 1/4 status rather than a direct step to the semifinals.
At the same time Beath and Dittmar had their playoff fate in their own hands and responded with a 19-13 victory over Wales. This upped their RR record to a 3 way tie of 2 wins and 3 losses with Wales and Israel. The final differential was CANADA -4, Wales -12 and Israel -34. A satisfying meal in both cases.
Thursday October 20
TRIPLES AND PAIRS ROUND ROBIN GAMES COMPLETED TOMORROW. ALL CANADIAN TEAMS HAVE A SHOT AT THE MEDAL PLAYDOWNS. TOP 3 IN EACH SECTION ADVANCE
You always like to have your chance to advance in your own hands. Even though Mary Ann Beath and Kylah Dittmar lost to-day 12-15 to Guernsey, a win over Wales by 5 or more points in their final RR game should push them into the medal playdowns.
Steve McKerihen, Steve Santana, Pat Bird did what they had to do by winning the first of their final two Round Robin games. They knocked off the Netherlands 16-6 in their afternoon game but face a stiffer foe tomorrow. Bring on the undefeated English squad skipped by Jamie Chestney. A Canadian win brings on the smiles but even a loss will leave the final result in doubt as both Israel and Guernsey remain in contention for the 3rd position.
George Whitelaw and Alex Scott tied Cyprus 17-17 which is both good and not so good.. They would have clinched with a victory but still have the upper hand in the standings - so to speak. Canada maintain their slight lead over the only team that can push them out of the playoff round. The Canadian Pair have 5 match points but a final tilt against the strong South African duo of Gerry Baker and Bobby Donnelly. Cyprus have 3 match points and play the 1-3 Israel team. A win or a tie and forget the tie breaker - yo Canada. A Canadian loss and a Cyprus win leaves the two teams even in match points and
"If points are equal then each section will be decided by the highest net total of shots." Whitelaw and Scott have a 8 point cushion. It might come in handy.
The Roth, Roney, Battles trio squeezed out a thrilling victory over the Cyprus home team 16-15. This puts them in a strong position to finish in the top 3 and move to medal playdowns. One game remaining and Jersey would have to beat the top dog South African team big and Canada lose to the winless Americans, big.
Meanwhile the McKerihen, Santana, Bird team are now in a must win situation after losing to Ireland 8-28 this morning. They play later to-day against Netherlands and have a stiff task when they play the undefeated English team tomorrow.

Three games, three wins for the Canadian Team on Day 3 of this International competition.
The Women's Triples team of Erin Roth, Jean Roney and Shannon Battles are in 3rd position and could have been on top except for a close loss to the 1st place South African squad. To-day they edged England 15-12 to run their record to 2-1 and are in contention for a run to the playoffs.
George Whitelaw and Alex Scott ran their record to 2-1 with a victory over Israel 21-15. They have a big game tomorrow against the home country Cyprus team which will go a long way in determining their chance at the playoffs.
Mary Ann Beath and Kylah Dittmar picked up their 1st win in the RR by knocking off Israel 25-12. This win jumped them all the way to 3rd in their Section with Scotland and The USA still undefeated.
The other Canadian team in strong contention is the Steve McKerihen, Steve Santana, Pat Bird trio. They had a bye to-day and dropped a spot in a hotly contested Section.

WOMEN'S TRIPLES

ERIN ROTH, JEAN RONEY, SHANNON BATTLES

Round 1 South Africa 18 CANADA 16

Round 2 CANADA 14 Jersey 9

Round 3 CANADA 15 England 12
Round 4 CANADA 16 Cyprus 15
Round 5 CANADA 15 USA 14

Section 2
FINAL STANDINGS

1. South Africa 5-0 10 MP
2. CANADA 4-1 8 MP
3. England 2-3 4 MP 86-63 +23

4. Cyprus 2-3 4 MP 71-62 +9

5. Jersey 2-3 4 MP 58-80 -22

6. USA 0-5 0 MP

Section 1
FINAL STANDINGS
1. Spain 4-2 8 MP 84-74 +10

2. Scotland 4-2 8 MP 79-71 +8
3. Israel 3-3 6 MP 87-82 +5
4. Netherlands 3-3 6 MP 84-81 +3
5. Wales 2-4 4 MP 85-77 +10
6. Ireland 2-4 4 MP 78-85 -7

7. Guernsey 2-4 4 MP 66-93 -27

MEN'S TRIPLES

STEVE MCKERIHEN, STEVE SANTANA, PAT BIRD

Round 1 Israel 20 CANADA 16

Round 2 CANADA 19 Guernsey 10

Round 3 CANADA 11 Cyprus 10
Round 4 BYE
Round 5 Ireland 18 CANADA 8
Round 6 CANADA 16 Netherlands 6
Round 7 England 14 CANADA 9

Section 2
FINAL STANDINGS

1. England 6-0 12 MP
2. Cyprus 4-2 8 MP
3. CANADA 3-3 6 MP 79-78 +1
4. Guernsey 3-3 6 MP 79-86 -7
5. Ireland 2-3-1 5 MP 85-82 +3

6. Israel 2-3-1 5 MP 82-93 -11

7. Netherlands 0-6 0 MP

Section 1
FINAL STANDINGS

1. Scotland 4-1 8 MP
2. South Africa 3-2 6 MP 67-58 +9
3. Wales 3-2 6 MP 73-71 +2
4. Spain 2-3 4 MP 74-64 +10
5. USA 2-3 4 MP 78-78 0
6. Jersey 1-4 2 MP

WOMEN'S PAIRS
MARY ANN BEATH, KYLAH DITTMAR
Round 1 USA 18 CANADA 15
Round 2 Scotland 26 CANADA 9
Round 3 CANADA 25 Israel 12
Round 4 Guernsey 15 CANADA 12
Round 5 CANADA 19 vs Wales 13

Section 1
FINAL STANDINGS
1. Scotland 5-0 123-42 +81
2. USA 3-2 84-84 0
3. CANADA 2-3 80-84 -4
4. Wales 2-3 77-89 -12
5. Israel 2-3 62-96 -34
6. Guernsey 1-4 59-96 -37

Section 2
FINAL STANDINGS
1. South Africa 6-0 12 MP
2. Netherlands 3-3 6 MP +10
3. Spain 3-3 6 MP -1
4. England 3-3 6 MP -8
5. Jersey 3-3 6 MP -22
6. Cyprus 2-4 4 MP
7. Ireland 1-5 2 MP

MEN'S PAIRS
GEORGE WHITELAW, ALEX SCOTT
Round 1 Scotland 27 CANADA 8
Round 2 CANADA 24 Netherlands 11
Round 3 CANADA 21 Israel 15
Round 4 CANADA 17 Cyprus 17
Round 5 CANADA 27 vs South Africa 18

Section 2
FINAL STANDINGS
1. Scotland 4-1 103-53 +50
2. South Africa 4-1 108-73 +35
3. CANADA 3-1-1 97-88 +9
4. Israel 2-3 87-84 +3
5. Cyprus 1-3-1 80-103 -23
6. Netherlands 0-5 52-126 -74
Section 1
FINAL STANDINGS
1. Jersey 5-1 10 MP +53
2. Ireland 5-1 10 MP +22
3. England 4-2 8 MP
4. USA 3-3 6 MP
5. Wales 2-4 4 MP +24
6. Spain 2-4 4 MP -47
7. Guernsey 0-6 0 MP

ATLANTIC CHAMPIONSHIPS FORMATS OF PLAY

2011-10-20T09:26:00.000-04:00

I have been searching to confirm the playoff qualifiers and thanks to Team Manager Shirley Lenarduzzi in Cyprus it is the same conditions that will govern the 2012 World Championships in Adelaide.
Shirley was up and rushing off to the greens and took time for a quick note. I know from personal experience that the team officials are busy from early morning to late at night.

FORMATS OF PLAY
Traditional Play (5 athletes per team)
- SINGLES: Four bowls, 21 shots up, in excess of 21 shots shall not count, with a time
limit of three-and-a-half hours per match (not including trial ends).
- PAIRS: Four bowls per athlete, 18 ends, with a time limit of three-and-a-half hours per
match (not including trial ends). (4x4)
- TRIPLES: Three bowls per athlete, 15 ends, with a time limit of three-and-a-half hours
per match (not including trial ends).
- FOURS: Two bowls per athlete, 18 ends, with a time limit of three-and-a-half hours per
match (not including trial ends).
Teams will be divided into two sections. Sectional play will be used to determine ranking in each
section.
The winner of section 1 will progress to semi final 1, the winner of section 2 will progress to semi
final 2.
The second and third placed teams from each section will be randomly draw into two postsectional playoff matches, game A and game B. The winner of game A will progress to semi final 1,
the winner of game B will progress to semi final 2. The winners of each semi final will play off in the
final for the gold and silver medals. The losers of both semi finals will be awarded bronze medals.

CANADIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2011 ONTARIO

2011-08-15T00:10:00.616-04:00

WILLOWDALE - AGINCOURT

TORONTO
Fri 9:45PM A good day at Agincourt, A sweep of Alberta albeit nip and tuck in a couple of matches. Chris Stadnyk and Jeff Harding continued their late run to win their 3rd straight to slip by the other contenders and set up an all Ontario gold game in Pairs.Undefeated in the RR Steve McKerihen vs Chris, David Anderson vs Jeff. An international caliber match at the Willowdale LBC, the host of World Bowls in 1981. In fact we have a good chunk of the Canadian team's rosters playing to-day, have played this week or are interested spectators. Later.
Tom Roth, Jim Roth, Ron Whitehead, Wray Roth were down 3 coming home against the Lyall Adams Edmonton rink when ON drew the head and AB were missing. Count them, 4 for ON, which turned out to be of value.to both teams. ON-B made the bronze game and AB hung on to their gold appearance.Ran out of eyelid power.
Sat 6:30Am Jean McCron and Cindy Taylor started the week well and ended the RR the same way. They were up 13-6 after 12 over the Alberta Pairs skipped by Cecellia Gillespie and maintained the margin to win their way to the bronze medal game. It will be Gillespie and Laura Lochanski again. Cecellia changed from her long time success for the green of SK to the pink of Alberta when she moved to Edmonton last fall to be near her daughter.
Speaking of moving Erin Roth and her fiance Craig Dorey flew into Toronto from Guernsey Thursday for a go at life to-gether on Canadian soil.They were rink side for the family win but look for this skilled pair of bowlers to be playing next year not watching.
Kelly McKerihen, Laura Seed, Lisa McKerihen, Heather Battles finished the RR by defeating ALberta 22-10 and only lost one match all week. It was against BC their opponents for gold to-day. That sets the stage for a dandy.
Over to Willowdale.
Laila Hassan and Chrystal Shephard were undefeated and then they were not. Manitoba won an appeal on their Round 4 game and the two teams picked up play for a 6 end match on Friday afternoon. Manitoba won the game and now they can conclude the week with the perfect scenario. They play for gold.
Shirley Ko and Elaine Jones is a classic match. Both methodical, unflappable and experienced leads to a game to watch. Shirley beat Elaine in the RR 21-16 and that is a big margin with these quality bowlers.
Have to go. Hope the traffic from Burlington isn't going to stop us from seeing bowls rather than car trunks.

Fri 6:35AM UNOFFICIAL Playing for Gold Saturday Shirley Ko, Singles; Laila Hassan/ Chrystal Shephard, Pairs; Steve McKerihen/David Anderson, Pairs; Kelly McKerihen/Laura Seed /Lisa McKerihen /Heather Battles Fours; ON. Steve Santana, Singles BC; Jon Pituley / Michael Pituley / Grant Wilkie/ Murray Pituley, SK.
Singles, Women Even if Elaine Jones wins ,based on Tie Breaker Formula , Josephine Lee BC to gold and Jones and Amanda Berg for Bronze. Big win for Michelle Whitehead yesterday over Lee but the TB is her game was against Berg.
Singles, Men Alex Scott SK plays for gold with a win this norning. Fred had a satisfying finish playing very well in beating the undefeated Santana but TBs will end his week. With a win Mike Wagner has a chance to play for Bronze.
Pairs, Men Chris Stadnyk/ Jeff Harding play for gold with a win over Alberta to-day.A loss will make it a bronze game with one of NS- A, AB, BC.
Pairs, Women- Manitoba won an appeal in their loss to ON-A in Round 4. The teams will play a shortened game this afternoon in this decision. The removal of 2 points from the ON team has no impact on their qualification for the gold game. Depending on this mornings games the Betty Van Walleghem / Sandra Mulholland MB team could possibly play for gold against ON-A. Jean McCron / Cindy Taylor still can play for a medal with a win - colour to be determined.
Fours, Women - BC are peeking out of the pack to play ON-B for gold. But there are 6 teams still with medal aspirations.
Fours Men - The Roth clan are rolling and need to keep that train moving aginst the tough AB team this morning. A win gives them a chance for a Bronze game.
Thurs 6:45 AM Computer problems, I will be watching but unable to report in detail on site due to operational and time constraints. Spot shots: Shirley Ko needs 1 win to clinch gold game. Medal game for Michelle Whitehead appears to be this mornings game vs Alberta's Amanda Berg. 1 win for Laila/Chrystal makes gold opportunity. Jean & Cindy win to-day and make the Alberta game the possible gold qualifier. Kelly McKerihen's team can make it happen by defeating NSA this pm. Wallbank & Wagner can play for a medal, perhaps aginst each other. A mighty pair of games for Chris and Jeff to-day. Gold still in sight. Steve & David in the driver's seat. Herb Nesbitt's last shot for the win over Tom Roth put a dint in ONB's medal hopes but a run by either team still can produce extended play.
Wed 6:40AM Predictions are arbitrary. Performers draw our admiration for their skill and consistency. Finding the zone even for a week, a day, a game is a delight. It is never over until it's over. In 2003 Brian Fowler and Bob North had a record like those in the bottom of the standings after 2 days. We played the rest of the week like our pants were on fire. Won the bronze over two young upstarts from Quebec I believe - Michel Larue and Stephen Woods.
Time to see the future.
Carnac the Magnificent is by my side.
Singles - Ko and Jones play for gold unless the boat tilts to the Lee.
Singles - Santana and 1 Ontario but perhaps not who you think except great Scott is on fire.
Pairs - It could be all Ontario but is that really the Gillespie I know from the land of green with a pink rose in her hair. If so, her travels aren't over.
Pairs - Tough,tough event this year. McKerihen, Ogden,Grahame,Stadnyk Wieliczko all warmed up for a fabulous RR finish. The two in gold will be decided by differential so keep an eye on the numbers. Survey says -- the game tomorrow is a preview peek.
Fours - Five women's teams will be scrambling for the podium games. Four of them will end up with 14 points. Three days of dizzy delight as the puzzle unfolds. I think the answer is found in the Onmbabbcsk bag.
Fours - Mann's the boat, there is a leak but I think it will be fixed.
Four teams divided into 2 for gold will take some time to figure out.
Lots of quality bowls coming your way.

Tues 10:00PM Heading out in the morning to the BIG SHOW. I will be tuned to the Sirius station carrying live the 9AM game between Ontario's Steve McKerihen/David Anderson and Nova Scotia's Steve Ogden/Steve Bezanson.

Pierre said this is a monster match. Round 5 is hump day of the week. This game has high value for having a go at gold on Saturday. What was going up is on its way down. When we get to Agincourt, I am looking at all those Ontario vs Ontario challenge games and then off to Willowdale to see Shirley Ko and BC's Josephine Lee make their statement about the colour of medal they would prefer.

I am not carting a computer but I will be tweeting from where ever I might land.

To receive information goggle - bobnorth@bobby4gee ( my twitter account ) which will take you the Twitter site. Click on follower and what I send comes to you. I will sure try to keep the blog site up to date when I find a computer in the evenings. Kudos to the poster of results to-day.

Tues 4:00PM Hey, a very nice win by K.McKerihen/Seed/L.Mckerihen/Battles over the Harriette Pituley SK undefeated team. Two opposing skips playing against each other to-day who will play on the same Canadian team in Australia at the end of November.Come to think of it none of the 3 active McKerihens have lost a game yet.

How about that McCron/Taylor dual. They eeked a 16-15 win but we knew it would be close against the wily veteran Jean Roney.I bet you Cindy is still shaking her head at the timely shot making of Jean. And good on fairly new bowler Taylor for taking on Canada so well in this event. But even with their 3 wins the ON-B team are 2nd to the ON-A Hassan/Shephard pair. Their match was closer in their win but they are playing well. An indication of their prowess is their third place rank in overall differential or margin of victory to date. Only Steve McKerihen/Dave Anderson at +49 and undefeated Shirley Ko with +48 tops their +45.

Tues 3:45PM Singles Posted at 3:25, very good. Actually since there is a 3 1/2 time limit on the games - separate venues and with checking, it can be expected the results for the Fours and Pairs could be from 5 to 5 1/2 hours before posted.

Tues 2:15PM Scores Posted. Nothing to do with me.

Tues 2:00PM No scores posted from 9AM 4's and 2's games. Either need more help or job delegation. I will drive 3 1/2 hours, pay my own way and distribute scores accurately and quickly. Just find me a parking spot at Willowdale. Seriously, slow results are perceived as not caring about the interest of distant supporters. It erodes the base like the tide on a sand beach.

Tues 11:30AM Singles posted. Big win by Mike Wagner 21-17 over Alex Scott. Mike is no longer a secret. Shirley Ko wipes out SK's Clem Grant 21-4.

Tues 8:50 AM Womens Singles - Michelle Whitehead had to first make a decision whether to enter the Ontario District event. What with husband Ron already qualified for the Canadians on dad Tom's Fours team and uncle Jim and grandpa Wray playing as well and a toddler and a baby wanting to play too - well you get the picture. Well she did and she is( aren't grandmothers ie. Laurie wonderful ). Three up and three down. Elaine Jones on the play list this afternoon.

9:00 AM Game time. Shirley Ko with 3 to-day.There is focus and determination emanating from her approach. I see the top five in the standings as the group who will rumble for a medal. It appears Shirley intends to be there.

Tues 9:10 AM -Mens Singles Wallbank and Dusablon at high noon , well shortly after but sounded better. I don't know Leo of Manitoba , but taking notice, but I do know Fred. Quietly consistent and effective allows the bumps to be easier and the ride to straighten out.

Mike has the chance to-day to jump into the race to the medals along with the young guns. Scott and Santana are real, real good.

Tues 8:30 AM Mens Pairs - High quality and very competitive action going on in this division. Both McKerihen-Anderson and Stadnyk-Harding are gold game candidates but they have to push Ogden and Bezanson off their 2 year perch on the top of the podium. Positioning to-day, the big match ups to come later.

Tues 8:40 AM -Womens Pairs - A pretty picture with On leading the pack. Hassan & Shephard are on a mission.They have no intention of relinquishing their spot on the ladder to-day. Love the gritty performance of McCron and Taylor. Got into the Provincials as a replacement team and haven't looked back. The game this morning against the long time successful Jean Roney of SK will tell a thing or two.

Tues 8:00 AM Ladies Fours - The top 4 go head to head this morning in a sorting process. Great win yesterday by Kelly & crew over the perennial medalists from Manitoba led by mom Clarice Fitzpatrick and daughter Shirley. Sheila Lumley get their chance to-day. I see 6 teams looking for 4 spots at the end of the week and to-day will either clarify or leave the water muddy.

Tues 8:15 AM Mens Fours - Whoa baby. Not a standing location we are used to seeing Herb Nesbitt. The good news is it is just Day One but both Nesbitt and Tom Roth's team might best reverse the trend to-day and win both games. They have the ability and they must beat teams in a contending pack of 5 ahead of them. I am looking for both ON teams to make waves to-day.

Mon 9:35 Back from watching our grandson Cameron, he was in Edmonton last year at the Nationals, at a hockey school. The scores are posted on the BCB site.

Mon 7:59 Michelle Whitehead ON'A' Singles 3-0

Mon Aug 15 7PM BCB site great this morning for results. Entered as they finished, added new as they came in. Just what keeps the bowls fan at home interested.

What is happening since?

Nothing on the scoreboard. No updates. No notice of rain delay( or something). No results of finished games.

I am getting little pieces of information. Unofficially I'm hearing that Chris Stadnyk and Jeff Harding ran their record to 2-0. Tom Roth made a great shot in the last end to score 4 and tie Manitoba. Perhaps Mike Wagner lost to even his record at 1-1.

In the news business, especially in this modern world, current is king. I understand accuracy but this is Day One. Keep us tuned in not turned off.

Monday, August 15

Here we go. Time to get a seat on the rail to watch the mighty action of the annual quest for medals at the Majors. Never dull, never sure, always an interesting pursuit to the finish line.

An important clash right off the bat between Ontario and Saskatchewan. Four National team members involved in this match up.

The Women's Fours game between Nova Scotia's Debbie Foster and Manitoba's Shirley Fitzpatrick-Wong could very well influence the medal round at week's end. And the same label is easily attached to the Michel Larue QC- Cary Manns BC Fours game which pits two National team skips in the opener.
Monday 9AM
Strange to see Pat Beggs and Jeff Mulherin not together as a formidable New Brunswick Pairs entry. Good for NB though as they have added their skill to two teams. No PEI. We will miss the fun and good nature of the group from the Island. Plus their ability to surprise the unexpecting with their good bowls.
Former Londoner Brian Ranger is playing Pairs with Art Wieliczko of Alberta. Brian and Debbie are the parents of Melissa, a star young bowler who won Canadian Singles gold in 2003.

WOMEN

FOURS

STANDINGS

AFTER ROUND 4

1.ON'B' Kelly McKerihen, Laura Seed, Lisa McKerihen, Heather Battles

[ 8 Pts + 31 ]

2. MB Shirley Fitzpatrick Wong,Clarice Fitzpatrick,Marilyn Baron,Michelle

Palichuk [ 6 Pts + 30 ]
3. AB Rosina Toal, Claire Day, Dixie Blackmore, Val Wilson 6 Pts +16
4. BC Mary Wright, Juanita Tucker, Belle Chan, Ann Van Bastelaere 5 Pts +10
5.SK Harriette Pituley, Rachel Larson, Janice Robinson, Merle Ackerman
4 Pts +5]
6. NS'A' Debbie Foster, Tammy Foster-Veinot, Anita Knox, Jackie Foster
[ 4 +3 ]

7. QC Kerry O'Reilly, Carolyn McGarr, Margaret MacNeil, Norma Cassidy

[ 4 Pts -12 ]

8. ON'A' Sheila Lumley, Mary Meldrum, Linda Baron, Heather Comba
[ 3 Pts -28 ]

9. NS'B' Maureen Boudreau, Linda Stubbs, Linda Yeazel, Val Bechard

[ 0 Pts -22]

10 NB Patricia Albert, Aline Doiron, Gloria McLaughlin, Verna Morrisey

[ 0 Pts - 33 ]

ROUND 1

ON'A' Sheila Lumley, Mary Meldrum, Linda Baron, Heather Comba 9

SK Harriette Pituley, Rachel Larson, Janice Robinson, Merle Ackerman 33

[ Harriette vicing on National team in Australia in November ]

ON'B' Kelly McKerihen, Laura Seed, Lisa McKerihen, Heather Battles 15

NS'B' Maureen Boudreau, Linda Stubbs, Linda Yeazel, Val Bechard 13

[ Kelly won the Canadian U25 Singles and will play in the World's in Australia ]

ROUND 2

ON'B' Kelly McKerihen, Laura Seed, Lisa McKerihen, Heather Battles 17

MB Shirley Fitzpatrick Wong,Clarice Fitzpatrick,Marilyn Baron,Michelle Paiichuk 14

ON'A' Sheila Lumley, Mary Meldrum, Linda Baron, Heather Comba 14

QC Kerry O'Reilly, Carolyn McGarr, Margaret MacNeil, Norma Cassidy 14

ROUND 3

ON'B' Kelly McKerihen, Laura Seed, Lisa McKerihen, Heather Battles 21

SK Harriette Pituley, Rachel Larson, Janice Robinson, Merle Ackerman 8

ON'A' Sheila Lumley, Mary Meldrum, Linda Baron, Heather Comba 23
NS'B' Maureen Boudreau, Linda Stubbs, Linda Yeazel, Val Bechard 17

ROUND 4

ON'B' Kelly McKerihen, Laura Seed, Lisa McKerihen, Heather Battles 20

NB Patricia Albert, Aline Doiron, Gloria McLaughlin, Verna Morrisey 7

ON'A' Sheila Lumley, Mary Meldrum, Linda Baron, Heather Comba 8
MB Shirley Fitzpatrick Wong,Clarice Fitzpatrick,Marilyn Baron,Michelle Palichuk 18

ROUND 5

ON'B' Kelly McKerihen, Laura Seed, Lisa McKerihen, Heather Battles

QC Kerry O'Reilly, Carolyn McGarr, Margaret MacNeil, Norma Cassidy

ON'A' Sheila Lumley, Mary Meldrum, Linda Baron, Heather Comba

NS'A' Debbie Foster, Tammy Foster-Veinot, Anita Knox, Jackie Foster

MEN

FOURS
STANDINGS
AFTER ROUND 6

1. SK Jon Pituley, Michael Pituley, Grant Wilkie, Murray Pituley [ 10 Pts +52 ]

2. QC Michel Larue, Stephen Woods, Michel Dargie, Ron Lefebvre

[ 6 Pts +25 ]

3. AB Lyall Adams, Pat Bird, Peter Monk, Stan Nelson[ 6 Pts +19 ]

4. BC Cary Manns, Kin On Lau, Dave Baldwin, Clement Law [ 6 Pts +16 ]
5. MB Maurice Van Walleghem, Vince Scaletta, Jerome Kirby, Phil Clark

[ 5 Pts +9 ]
6. ON'B' Tom Roth, Jim Roth, Ron Whitehead, Wray Roth [ 3 Pt. -20]

7. NS'B' Ian MacDonald, Phil Balcom, Cameron Lafresne, Dennis Mullane

[ 2 Pts +6 ]

8. NS'A' Mark Robar, Mike Hadley, Calvin Bechard, Jack Robar [ 2 Pts -21 ]
9. NB Pat Beggs, Walter Steves, Thomas Batty, Elden McLaughlin [2 Pts -26 ]
10. ON'A' ON'A' Herb Nesbitt, Hugh Branston, Weston Nesbitt, Dave Houtby
[ 2 -44 ]

ROUND 1

ON'A' Herb Nesbitt, Hugh Branston, Weston Nesbitt, Dave Houtby 8

SK Jon Pituley, Michael Pituley, Grant Wilkie, Murray Pituley 29

[ Two Nesbitts vs 3 Pituleys. An important match ]

ON'B' Tom Roth, Jim Roth, Ron Whitehead, Wray Roth 10

NS'B' Ian MacDonald, Phil Balcom, Cameron Lafresne, Dennis Mullane 24

ROUND 2

ON'B' Tom Roth, Jim Roth, Ron Whitehead, Wray Roth 17

MB Maurice Van Walleghem, Vince Scaletta, Jerome Kirby, Phil Clark 17

ON'A' Herb Nesbitt, Hugh Branston, Weston Nesbitt, Dave Houtby 11

QC Michel Larue, Stephen Woods, Michel Dargie, Ron Lefebvre 24

ROUND 3

ON'B' Tom Roth, Jim Roth, Ron Whitehead, Wray Roth 13

SK Jon Pituley, Michael Pituley, Grant Wilkie, Murray Pituley 20

ON'A' Herb Nesbitt, Hugh Branston, Weston Nesbitt, Dave Houtby 17

NS'B' Ian MacDonald, Phil Balcom, Cameron Lafresne, Dennis Mullane 14

ROUND 4

ON'B' Tom Roth, Jim Roth, Ron Whitehead, Wray Roth 14
NB Pat Beggs, Walter Steves, Thomas Batty, Elden McLaughlin 13

ON'A' Herb Nesbitt, Hugh Branston, Weston Nesbitt, Dave Houtby 12
MB Maurice Van Walleghem, Vince Scaletta, Jerome Kirby, Phil Clark 25

ROUND 5

ON'B' Tom Roth, Jim Roth, Ron Whitehead, Wray Roth

QC Michel Larue, Stephen Woods, Michel Dargie, Ron Lefebvre

ON'A' Herb Nesbitt, Hugh Branston, Weston Nesbitt, Dave Houtby

NS'A' Mark Robar, Mike Hadley, Calvin Bechard, Jack Robar

WOMEN
PAIRS
STANDINGS
AFTER ROUND 4

1. ON'A' Laila Hassan, Chrystal Shephard 8 Pts +50

2. ON'B' Jean McCron, Cindy Taylor 8 Pts +29
3. AB Cecillia Gillespie, Laura Lochanski 6 Pts +30

4. MB Betty Van Walleghem, Sandra Mulholland 4 Pts 0

5. NS'A' Verna Murray, Louise MacPhee 4 Pts -3
6. BC Diane Fulton, Sandy Yau 4 Pts -29

7. SK Jean Roney, Lorie Young 2 Pts -5
8. QC Rosalie Parsons-Brown, Hong Lan Ma 2 Pts -17

9. NS'B' Alice Hadley, Anne MacDonald 2 Pts -17

10 NB Marg Fanjoy, Nancy Cook 0 Pts -38

ROUND 1

ON'A' Laila Hassan, Chrystal Shephard 27

SK Jean Roney, Lorie Young 8

[ Another dandy leading off. Roney and Hassan years of top flight bowls ]

ON'B' Jean McCron, Cindy Taylor 20

NS'B' Alice Hadley, Anne MacDonald 8

ROUND 2

ON'B' Jean McCron, Cindy Taylor 15

MB Betty Van Walleghem, Sandra Mulholland 14

ON'A' Laila Hassan, Chrystal Shephard 28
QC Rosalie Parsons-Brown, Hong Lan Ma 6

ROUND 3

ON'B' Jean McCron, Cindy Taylor 16

SK Jean Roney, Lorie Young 15

ON'A' Laila Hassan, Chrystal Shephard 18

NS'B' Alice Hadley, Anne MacDonald 14

ROUND 4

ON'B' Jean McCron, Cindy Taylor 27
NB Marg Fanjoy, Nancy Cook 12

ON'A' Laila Hassan, Chrystal Shephard 16

MB Betty Van Walleghem, Sandra Mulholland 11

ROUND 5

ON'A' Laila Hassan, Chrystal Shephard

NS'A' Verna Murray, Louise MacPhee

ON'B' Jean McCron, Cindy Taylor

QC Rosalie Parsons-Brown, Hong Lan Ma

MEN
PAIRS
STANDINGS

AFTER ROUND 4

1. ON'A' Steve McKerihen, David Anderson 8 Pts +63
2. NS'A' Steve Ogden, Steve Bezanson 8 Pts +50
3. BC Chris Grahame, Vince Mai 6 Pts +33
4. ON'B' Chris Stadnyk, Jeff Harding 6 Pts +32
5. AB Arthur Wieliczko, Brian Ranger 6 Pts +8

6. MB Bob Van Walleghem, Dennis Ducharme 2 Pts -7

7. SK Charlie Taylor, Duncan Holness 2 Pts - 18
8. QC John Paoletti, Nick Ladanowski 2 Pts -44
9. NS'B' Paul Higgins, Alexandar Vance 0 Pts -48
10. NB Ward Campbell, Jeff Mulherin 0 Pts -59

ROUND 1

ON'A' Steve McKerihen, David Anderson 25

SK Charlie Taylor, Duncan Holness 9

[ McKerihen and Anderson won Gold last year in the Fours.]

ON'B' Chris Stadnyk, Jeff Harding 20

NS'B' Paul Higgins, Alexandar Vance 11
[Chris & Jeff on the proving ground. ]

ROUND 2

ON'B' Chris Stadnyk, Jeff Harding 19

MB Bob Van Walleghem, Dennis Ducharme 9

ON'A' Steve McKerihen, David Anderson 30

QC John Paoletti, Nick Ladanowski 6

ROUND 3

ON'B' Chris Stadnyk, Jeff Harding 10

SK Charlie Taylor, Duncan Holness 21

ON'A' Steve McKerihen, David Anderson 29

NS'B' Paul Higgins, Alexandar Vance 13

ROUND 4

ON'A' Steve McKerihen, David Anderson 28

MB Bob Van Walleghem, Dennis Ducharme 14

ON'B' Chris Stadnyk, Jeff Harding 35

NB Ward Campbell, Jeff Mulherin 11

ROUND 5

ON'B' Chris Stadnyk, Jeff Harding

QC John Paoletti, Nick Ladanowski

ON'A' Steve McKerihen, David Anderson

NS'A' Steve Ogden, Steve Bezanson

WOMEN

SINGLES
STANDINGS
AFTER ROUND 6

1. ON'B' Shirley Ko 10 Pts +60
2. MB'A' Elaine Jones 8 PTS +28
3. BC Josephine Lee 8 Pts +25
4. AB Amanda Berg 6 Pts +20

5. ON'A' Michelle Whitehead 6 Pts +4

6. NS'B' Carolyn Ulch 4 Pts -12

7. MB'B' Anne Wright 2 Pts -13
8. NS'A' Lena Cameron 2 Pts -40
9. QC Kylah Dittmar 0 Pts -34

10. SK Clem Grant 0 Pts -38

ROUND 1

ON'A' Michelle Whitehead 21 SK Clem Grant 14

ON'B' Shirley Ko 21 NS'B' Carolyn Ulch 7

ROUND 2

ON'A' Michelle Whitehead 21 QC Kylah Dittmar 10

ON'B' Shirley Ko 21 MB'A' Elaine Jones 16

ROUND 3

ON'A' Michelle Whitehead 21 NS'B' Carolyn Ulch 9

ROUND 4

ON'B' Shirley Ko 21 SK Clem Grant 4

ROUND 5

ON'A' Michelle Whitehead 4 MB'A' Elaine Jones 21

ON'B' Shirley Ko 21 MB'B' Anne Wright 9

ROUND 6

ON'A' Michelle Whitehead 12 NS'A' Lena Cameron 21

ON'B' Shirley Ko 21 QC Kylah Dittmar 9

ROUND 7

ON'A' Michelle Whitehead V ON'B' Shirley Ko

ROUND 8

BYES

ROUND 9

ON'A' Michelle Whitehead V MB'B' Anne Wright

ON'B' Shirley Ko V BC Josephine Lee

MEN
SINGLES
STANDINGS
AFTER ROUND 6

1. BC Steve Santana 10 Pts [ +43]
2. ON'B' Mike Wagner 8 Pts [+38]
3. ON'A' Fred Wallbank 6 Pts [+24 ]

4. MB'A' Leo Dusablon 6 Pts [ +16]
5. AB Dave Cox [ 4 Pts +11 ]

6. SK Alex Scott [ 4 Pts +6 ]

7. NS'A' Terry O'Neil 4 Pts [ -19 ]
8. QC Richard Menear 4 Pts [ -28 ]

9. MB'B' John Bjornson 0 Pts [ -44]
10. NS'B' Walter Yochoff 0 Pts [ -47 ]

ROUND 1

ON'A' Fred Wallbank 7 SK Alex Scott 21

[ Alex,the young, a National team Member off to Cyprus in October vs Fred ,

the experienced, just off the National team. He won gold last year with the

McKerihen Fours team. Big ]

ON'B' Mike Wagner 21 NS'B' Walter Yochoff 1

ROUND 2

ON'A' Fred Wallbank 21 QC Richard Menear 8

ON'B' Mike Wagner 6 MB'A' Leo Dusablon 21

ROUND 3

ON'A' Fred Wallbank 21 NS'B' Walter Yochoff 2

ROUND 4

ON'B' Mike Wagner 21 SK Alex Scott 17

ROUND 5

ON'B' Mike Wagner 21 MB'B' John Bjornson 7

ON'A' Fred Wallbank 19 MB'A' Leo Dusablon 21

ROUND 6

ON'B' Mike Wagner 21 QC Richard Menear 6

ON'A' Fred Wallbank 21 NS'A' Terry O'Neil 13

ROUND 7

ON'A' Fred Wallbank V ON'B' Mike Wagner

ROUND 8

Byes
ROUND 9

ON'A' Fred Wallbank V MB'B' John Bjornson

ON'B' Mike Wagner V BC Steve Santana

DISTRICT NOVICE WINNERS 2011

2011-08-14T07:07:00.003-04:00

PROVINCIALS

HANOVER

SEPTEMBER 3,4

D1 Fran Badder(S), Kathryn MacGregor, Nancy Stewart

D1 Les Badder(S), Tom McNaughton, Wayne Gordon

D4 Joan Bierling(S), Gail Pelton, Dora Mote

D4 Ross Dietrich(S), Dave McMaster, Gary LeSouder

D8 Christine Schuknecht, Glenda Courtice, Theresa Bester
D8 Ken Martin, Steven Foster, Tom Carland

D10

D11

D12 Zee Jones(S), Susan Leong, Aiko Akiyoshi

D12 Mark Benrstein(S), Rick Burrows, Tim Irvine

D13

D14

D15

D16 Jane Parish(S), Emma Brown, Inga Campbell

D16 Roger Hack(S), Bill Westwood, Don Gilmore

CANADIAN JUNIOR 2011 CHAMPIONSHIPS AT MONTREAL

2011-07-29T18:19:00.001-04:00

The WESTMOUNT LAWN B.C. will be hosting the 18 and Under Championships starting on Wednesday August 3rd and running to Saturday the 6th.

It is a strong field of young bowlers featuring 13 male teens, including the Ontario 2011 champion and defending Canadian gold medalist Jake Schuknecht , he also won Canadian gold in 2008. On the female side sister Christine Schuknecht is this year's Ontario champ and looking to make it a double, double against her 7 other competitors from across the country. Christine ,just 14 and a recent graduate of elementary school, has had some bowls year already. Besides her Junior prowess, she qualified for both Pairs and Singles to play in the current Provincials out of District 8.

The offspring of Steve and Barb Schuknecht, their bowling interest is a natural with Dad and Mom both keen and successful bowlers out of the Chesley Club.

" I started when I was 9", said Jake. " I wanted to start before that but Dad wouldn't let me start until I could make the bowl to the hogline. Both Mom and Dad bowled and we all had to go down and watch, so rather and sit around and do nothing I thought I might as well bowl. So I kept trying and at 9 I made it. I signed up and became a member and Dad started taking me out to tournaments my first year and that just started it all. Even though I was bowling Dad wouldn't let me do juniors until I was 16. Sean, my older brother, started bowling when I was 7 and he did juniors against Ryan Bester, Andrew Wagner and other great bowlers so Dad didn't want me to get blown away." [ED. Excellent Juniors, wise Dad.]

It is obvious the grounding in basics, the gradual development towards exceptional competitive bowls and the sportsmanship the family displays was nurtured at a young age by modeling their parents.

I found this photo of Jake in the WOBA 2010 files. A fun loving guy with a smile that gives sunshine to a cloudy day. He and Michael Pituley had chosen chapeaus with a little more ' flair'. Always a 'give his all ' player, Jake rides the waves of success and losses with the same demeanour, the same acceptance when the luck is on the other side and the same recognition that it is but a game.

Off to Montreal the Ontario contingent will go. Along with Christine, will be Kaitlin Ryan who was the Canadian gold medalist in 2009 in Saskatoon and won a Bronze last year at Fairmont in London. Ashley Green will be the other Ontario entry.

For the boys, Mitchell Dack and Josh Cameron head east as well to give Ontario a full roster for this National event.

It will be competitive. Besides Michael Pituley , Sask. are sending Grant Wilkie who won silver last year in the Under 18. I had a first hand look at his ability in Edmonton when he played Pairs in the Major Championships. These young bowlers are good. They are a lifeline for our growth as a sport.

Profiter, de bien jouer.

The Difference Between Women And Men Bowlers

2011-07-26T08:20:00.000-04:00

A slight twist from a note from James D Smith
Wife’s Diary:

Tonight, I thought my husband was acting weird. We had made plans to meet at a nice restaurant for dinner. I was shopping with my friends all day long, so I thought he was upset at the fact that I was a bit late, but he made no comment on it. Conversation wasn't flowing, so I suggested that we go somewhere quiet so we could talk. He agreed, but he didn't say much.
I asked him what was wrong; He said, 'Nothing.' I asked him if it was my fault that he was upset He said he wasn't upset, that it had nothing to do with me, and not to worry about it. On the way home, I told him that I loved him. He smiled slightly, and kept driving.
I can't explain his behavior I don't know why he didn't say, 'I love you, too.' When we got home, I felt as if I had lost him completely, as if he wanted nothing to do with me anymore. He just sat there quietly, and watched TV. He continued to seem distant and absent. Finally, with silence all around us, I decided to go to bed. About 15 minutes later, he came to bed. But I still felt that he was distracted, and his thoughts were somewhere else. He fell asleep; I cried. I don't know what to do. I'm almost sure that his thoughts are with someone else. My life is a disaster.

Husband's Diary:
A four; who the hell is 3 up in the last end and gives up a four?

ONTARIO SINGLES AT KINGSTON 2011

2011-07-24T23:09:00.000-04:00

GOLD GAMES
D1 Michelle Whitehead 21 D15 Pauline Hill 13
D6 John Bush 20 D11 Fred Wallbank 21

Two dandy matches on tap. Michelle won Ontario gold last year in the Pairs and skipped her Novice team to gold in 1998. Pauline won a Canadian bronze medal in Singles in 2003 and skipped a Fours team to Provincial gold in 2009.

Fred has been so busy playing lead on the ultra successful Steve McKerihen Fours team at the Canadians , 6( 4 gold medals ) of the last 8 years, he has had little chance to fly solo. John has been there too and successful. A Canadian gold in 2006 in Seniors and a bronze in the 2009 Majors in Fours. He also was on the Triples Senior team who won Ontario gold in 2008

SILVER/BRONZE GAMES

D12 Shirley Ko 21 D15 Pauline Hill 12

D7 Mike Wagner 21 D13 Ron Geniole 14

WOMEN
Round 5
'B'
D13A ~~Elaine Stevenson~~ 11 D12 Shirley Ko 21
D14 L~~aura Hudson~~ 19 D15 Pauline Hill 21
Round 4
'B'
D13A Elaine Stevenson 21 D5 ~~Joan Way~~ 17
D12 Shirley Ko 21 D9  ~~Fran Todd~~ 4
D14 Laura Hudson 21 D4 ~~Jo Anne Bugler~~ 15
Round 3
'A'
D1 Michelle Whitehead 21 D14 Laura Hudson 17
D15 Pauline Hill 21 D5 Joan Way 11
'B'
D13A Elaine Stevenson 21 D6 ~~Katherine Smith~~ 10
D12 Shirley Ko 21 D13B ~~Cindy Higgins~~ 12
D9  Fran Todd 21 D7 ~~Jean Brighton~~ 5
D16 ~~Joelle Russell~~ 18 D4 Jo Anne Bugler 21
Round 2
'A'
D1 Michelle Whitehead 21 v D13B Cindy Higgins 18
D6 Katherine Smith 19 D14 Laura Hudson 21
D4 Jo Anne Bugler 16 D15A Pauline Hill 21
D7 Jean Brighton 8 D5 Joan Way 21
'B'
D10 ~~Jan Ferguson~~ 16 D13A Elaine Stevenson 21
15B ~~Sylvia Poulain~~ 13 D12 Shirley Ko 21
D9  Fran Todd 21 D2 ~~Marge Potter~~ 13
D16 Joelle Russell 21 D8 ~~Christine Schuknecht~~ 16
Round 1

D10 Jan Ferguson 11 D1 Michelle Whitehead 21

D13B Cindy Higgins 21 D13A Elaine Stevenson 18

15B Sylvia Poulain 10 D6 Katherine Smith 21

D12 Shirley Ko 15 D14 Laura Hudson 21

D4 Jo Anne Bugler 21 D9 Fran Todd 15

D15A Pauline Hill 21 D2 Marge Potter 9

D7 Jean Brighton 21 v D16 Joelle Russell 5

D5 Joan Way 21 D8 Christine Schuknecht 16

Top two(blog rankings) right off the bat. Big win for Hudson over Ko who had a strong run at the WOBA Open Singles.

A couple other high ranking players in Whitehead ( at Nationals last year in Pairs ) besting Ferguson.

Lots of experience and wins in the Round 2 match between Bugler and Hill.

Tough to play your District foe ( 2nd entry ) in Round 1 for Stevenson and Higgins. The 'A' player always will have more pressure to replicate the earlier victory. Seems to me it would be logical to redraw the first round if this happens. The free draw purists will disagree but I also believe there should be at least a 4 seed process.

MEN
Round 5
'B'
D14 ~~Robert Steffen~~ 18 D13 Ron Geniole 21
D7 Mike Wagner 21 D6 ~~John Bush~~ 9
Round 4
'B'
D14 Robert Steffen 21 D9 ~~Bob Woods~~ 11
D13 Ron Geniole 21 D2 ~~James Covell~~ 10
D7 Mike Wagner 21 D3 ~~Kody Olthof~~ 20
Round 3
'A'
D6 John Bush 21 D3 Kody Olthof 15
D11 Fred Wallbank 21 D9 Bob Woods 14
'B'
D1 ~~Martin Henly~~ 7 D14 Robert Steffen 21
D13 Ron Geniole 21 D4 J~~urgen Fessler~~ 4
D2 James Covell 21 D12 ~~Sum Tang~~ 20
D7 Mike Wagner 21 D15 ~~Steve Miller~~ 12
Round 2

D6 John Bush 21 D4 Jurgen Fessler 18
D3 Kody Olthof 21 D14 Robert Steffen 13
D15 Steve Miller 11 D11 Fred Wallbank 21
D2 James Covell 10 D9 Bob Woods 21
'B'
D16 ~~Brian McCartney~~ 18 D1 Martin Henly 21
D5 ~~Greg Wilson~~ 11 D13 Ron Geniole 21
D12 Sum Tang 21 D8 ~~Mike Bester~~ 8
D7 Mike Wagner 21 D10 ~~Peter Wong~~ 10

Round 1

D6 John Bush 21 D16 Brian McCartney 20

D1 Martin Henly 17 D4 Jurgen Fessler 21

D3 Kody Olthof 21 D5 Greg Wilson 13

D14 Robert Steffen 21 D13 Ron Geniole 20

D12 Sum Tang 7 D15 Steve Miller 21

D11 Fred Wallbank 21 D8 Mike Bester 14

D7 Mike Wagner 18 D2 James Covell 21

D10 Peter Wong 13 D9 Bob Woods 21

Two thrillers - Bush, a deft lefty, edges McCartney, a deft lefty. McCartney just completed winning the Pairs at WOBA. The report out of the D6 playdowns was the sizzling play of Rooster.

Side by side District players not separated by many KM. nor ability. Steffen & Geniole , both quiet and efficient, the score no surprise.

Very important 2nd round match with winners Wallbank (#1 blog) and Fessler ( 2010 Singles Edmonton ). Both with international experience.

The talented Covell back on the scene after an hiatus from bowls and Wagner who has quickly become a top flight competitor. James has won before, Mike will win soon.

W.O.B.A. 116 CONSECUTIVE YEARS AND STILL PURRING

2011-07-23T09:37:00.000-04:00

A summary statement by Brian Fowler:

'Mick' Fowler

8:51am Jul 23

The 116th WOBA officially came to an end yesterday with the conclusion of the Mixed Pairs..a fantastic week of bowls and weather was had by all..special thanks to the members of both host clubs Fairmont and Woodstock for your hospitality..the volunteers at both clubs were amazing..

Sunday Fours at Fairmont honoured Jim Fernie as the recipient of Honourary Member with a social night sponsored by Brian Fowler
Monday Fours resumed with finals at Fairmont and crowning the rink of Fessler, McLellan. Wagner and Johnson
Tuesday Singles at both Fairmont and Woodstock..an 8 round haul for some before crowning the Champion Arnie Markowitz..
Wednesday Pairs and moving day for Bowlers Of The Week with 32 Men's at Fairmont and 12 at Woodstock were accompanied with 24 Women's teams..
Thursday by far the hottest day at WOBA in a long time and the conclusion of the pairs brought us the eventual winners Brian McCartney/Gord Terwillegar and Kelly McKerihen/Laura Seed
Friday we were treated to a fantastic lunch as the Mixed at Fairmont concluded with winners Rosalie Parson-Brown and Jim Smith..

Through social media Facebook and Twitter we were able to post live updates to followers all over the globe..

The committee of Bob North Noreen Welsh Don Caswell Pete Mutter Wayne Wright Brian Fowler did a great job maintaining the WOBA as the number one tournament in Canada..
Special thanks to Carolyn Hoskin our residence draw co-ordinator for all your time and support..

Thanks to all the sponsors as always MVP Sports for your continuing support of the tournament and Gus and Sandy McKenzie not only for being our sponsor for BOTW but for your support to the tournament and last but not least to all the participants for your support at this years WOBA..
Hope to see you all back in 2012 WOBA

PROVINCIAL SINGLES PREDICTIONS 2011

2011-07-22T18:00:00.001-04:00

WOMEN

1. D12 Shirley Ko 1.5
2. D14 Laura Hudson 3.0

3. D15A Pauline Hill 4.0

4. D1 Michelle Whitehead 5.5

5.D10 Jan Ferguson 6.0

6. D13A Elaine Stevenson 6.5
7. D6. Katherine Smith 7.5
8. D4 Jo Anne Bugler 8.0

8. D2 Marge Potter 8.0

10 D8 Christine Schuknecht 9.5

11 D16 Joelle Russell 11.5
12 D5 Joan Way 12.0
12 D9 Fran Todd 12.0

14 D7 Jean Brighton 12.5

14 D13B Cindy Higgins 12.5

16 D15B Sylvia Poulain 14.5

MEN

1. D11 Fred Wallbank 3.5

1. D2 James Covell 3.5
3. D13 Ron Geniole 5.0
4. D8 Mike Bester 5.5
4. D4 Jurgen Fessler 5.5

6. D16 Brian McCartney 6.0

7. D7 Mike Wagner 6.5
7. D5 Greg Wilson 6.5

9. D3 Kody Olthof 8.0

10 D14 Robert Steffen 9.0

11 D10 Peter Wong 10.0

12 D12 Sum Tang 12.0

12 D6 John Bush 12.0

14 D1 Martin Henly 13.5

15 D15 Steve Miller 14.0

16 D9 Bob Woods 15.5

JULY 22

WHOAAAA BAAAAAAAA

2011-07-16T11:31:00.001-04:00

It's a beautiful thing.
Hot( no change ) and dry ( not calling for rain now on Sunday, Monday).
Many players have started their week with a Saturday warm up tournament.
The Classic Bill Boettger Men's Pairs at Heritage in Kitchener always draws a strong field with many of the participants heading straight to London after the day.
Over in Exeter the scene is a tranquil gathering of Mixed Triples/Women's Triples - that is until play begins.
And for those that are on the road and on the way, Fairmont have opened the greens this Saturday afternoon for a practice session.
Multi-tasking Brian will be on the scene doing some chef duties in preparation for the free SOCIAL NIGHT after completion of Four play on Day One.
Our Sport Therapist son dropped in for a quick visit and reminded me that hydration begins the day before. If you feel thirsty, it is probably too late.
Sunday 8:30 AM the curtain rises.

KEV and the UNITY PROJECT

2011-07-14T20:30:00.003-04:00

"You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you." John Wooden

Kevin Jones. A worn ball hat,dark glasses, a day old beard, no smile, no talk, a hurried gait to get it done. Intense on the green, a smug confidence bordering on arrogance , impatient when the game dragged, a man with a purpose, get out of my way.

One of Canada's elite bowlers.
He's won Canadian gold, the same in Ontario and is a dominant force at the prestigious W.O.B.A. Tournament. It's the only colour that matters. Winning motivates him, administrivia has frustrated him to the point of discord and withdrawal.

Does this grant him entitled status. Is life's journey easier when you are skilled.Does he only care about himself?
It's a facade.
Under that armored personna beats a heart with compassion and caring about those less fortunate. A person who has himself carried the burden of joblessness in his survival responsibilities and still spends 15 hour days to make it better for those adrift in our world of hanging on. In Kevin's words, "Im tired, I was at Ark Aid at 7 this morning and was doing volunteer stuff until 10:45 tonight. I seem to work more now....than I did when I had a job. "
But his request isn't for himself, it's for the homeless trying to survive and get back on their feet, for the visitors to have a warm and dry bed for a little while, for the hungry that seek sustenance in the next hours with no guarantees the next day.
This is Kev's letter:

To all WOBA players.

I am currently volunteering at the Unity Project in London. The people, who use the service that Unity Project provides, are trying to get their lives back on track, and we offer free or very cheap services to them. Emergency shelter, transitional housing, and counselling to guide people back to being productive citizens. (See the website http://unityproject.ca/ about what we do for more information) Unity Project is able to help the people in need, in a large part by donations. If you can see your way to donate one or more of the items listed, I and the Unity Project would be very appreciative.

Thank you,

Kevin Jones

Our “Needs" List.

single bed sheets/blankets/pillows
coffee cups
laundry/dish soap
shampoo/toothpaste/ bar soap/lotions/conditioner
Q-Tips
Feminine hygiene products
bath towels
razors/shaving cream/deodorant
First Aid supplies (bandages/band aids etc)
toilet paper
spray air freshener
pens
oven mitts
manual can openers
soup bowls
plastic juice jugs
electric hand mixer
gently used clothing
new socks/underwear
plastic knives/forks/spoons
non-perishable food items

Also, grocery store gift cards and personal cheques (made payable to “Unity Project”) will be accepted and a tax receipt for monetary donations will be issued. If you choose to give monetary or a grocery store gift card, please place it in a sealed envelope in the “drop box” with your name and address. Or, you can give them to James Covell, Bob North or my dad, Ronnie Jones. I will try to be at the Fairmont club as much as I can, but, I am scheduled to volunteer at Unity on Sunday/Monday and Wednesday from 4-10pm during WOBA. I wish you all the best in Bowls during the week.

Thank you for helping if you can, if you can’t, that’s OK too.

Kevin Jones

407-311 Wellington Court

I can't beat him in bowls but we can help him with his cause. Can you lend a hand too?

CHALLENGE 11- SINGLES LAST ONE STANDING

2011-07-14T01:08:00.000-04:00

We are down to one event remaining.
Only the Lonely.
This event will determine the total dollars raised this year in our bowls campaign to support cancer research.

$735 in 2010. We are at $643 in 2011

A gratifying amount from a generous group no doubt. Small but mighty makes a difference.

Two things. Take a crack at predicting the order of finish in Kingston.

Secondly, place a 'bob' or two on your top picks.

Most all who will play are already aboard our help team. A number don't play at all, just donate.

It's not too late, if you want, that's great.

Reference CHALLENGE 11- A BOWLS FUND RAISER TO BEAT CANCER June 9th on the blog.

TOP 'bob' to date SL 135,000 with EB not far behind at 116,000 'bob'.

Fun to-day with lasting benefit.

SINGLES DISTRICT WINNERS 2011

2011-07-13T23:37:00.001-04:00

WOMEN

1. Michelle Whitehead
2. Marge Potter
4. Jo Anne Bugler
5. Joan Way
6. Katherine Smith
7. Jean Brighton
8. Christine Schuknecht
9. Fran Todd
10 Jan Ferguson
12 Shirley Ko
13A Elaine Stevenson
13B Cindy Higgins
14 Laura Hudson
15A Pauline Hill
15B Sylvia Poulain
16 Joelle Russell

MEN

1. Martin Henly

2. James Covell

3. Kody Olthof

4. Jurgen Fessler

5. Greg Wilson

6. John Bush

7. Mike Wagner

8. Mike Bester

9. Bob Woods

10 Peter Wong

11 Fred Wallbank

12 Sum Tang

13 Ron Geniole

14 Robert Steffen

15 Steve Miller

16 Brian McCartney

DISTRICT SENIORS WINNERS 2011

2011-07-13T07:37:00.022-04:00

I noticed that Alex Graham won for Brampton. I can't believe that guy - He is just like the Energizer Bunny - he keeps on bowling and bowling and bowling....... Jo Waites

TO BURLINGTON AUGUST 2ND,3RD

D1 Sue Duransky, Jeannine Thornton, Kathryn MacGregor

D1 John Fantin, Brian Sims, Pete Cadotte

D13B Peggy Dundas, Carol Finlayson, Pat Weissflog

D2 Chuck Townsend, Doug Hoskin, Dave Gray

D3 Laura Ritchie, Yvette Vanderpost, Tilly Mannen

D3 Moe Cosyn, Don Caswell, Bob North

D4 Shirley Schmidt, Dorothy Mero, Marilyn Lancaster

D4 Larry McLellan, Glenn Keene, Len Boreham

D5 Diane March, Wendy Buick, Marion Freeborn

D5 Frank Pring, Lock Morgan, Dennis Ward

D6 Katherine Smith, Val McWilliams, Rosemarie Small

D6 Herb Nesbitt, Dave Houtby, George Lalicich

D7 Jean Brighton, Beverly Houston, Betty Mayne

D7 Barry Parker, Frank Witchey, Gary Lemieux

D8 Liz Geurtjens, Joyce Ruddell, Theresa Bester

D8 Paul Courtice, Ken Bester, Duffy O'Brecht

D9 Sharleen Harris, Joan Watkinson, Sharon Clark

D9 Eldon McFadyen, Alex Graham, Jab Pierce

D10 Carole Ann Bower, Maureen Ferguson, Cathy Riddock

D10 Albert Wu, Al Ferguson, Bill Stevenson

D11(5B) Margaret Beacroft, Joan Way, Marj Kells

D11(5B) Charley Lyle, George Wilson, Dave Burrows

D12 Helen Wright, Jackie Hogan, Hazel Joffe

D12 Arnon Zangwill, Arnie Markowitz, M.C. Kwok

D13A Jean McCron, Mel Jones, Elaine Stevenson
D13 Bill Hunter, Bruce Finlayson, Bruce Henderson

D14 Jan Bauer, Darlene McIntyre, Vera Richardson

D14 Doug Marshall, Fred Thompson, Paul Twaddell

D15 Iris Sager, Eleanor Henderson, Jackie Bedard

D15 John Adams, Brian Bedard, John Sager

D16 Leone Braby, Suzanne Savard, Flo Barclay

D16 Rico Silvestro, Henry Savard, David Smith

To fill the byes
Two entries for Women D5 and Men D5 as host District
Two entries for Women D13 - most entries in District play downs

W.O.B.A. - COMING SOON TO A GREEN NEAR YOU

2011-07-11T23:31:00.000-04:00

SUNDAY JULY 17

FOUR!

DRAWS UP!

Bright and early. Festivities underway at 8:30 AM to kick off a busy week of high level competition. Opening remarks, a charitable activity and we play and play until we pack our bowls bags and head home Friday for a rest.
I hope you are a part of it because it is 'one of a kind' across our continent.
And there is still a chance in selected events if you are so inclined to test your abilities against the top bowlers in Ontario and beyond.
There are 57 Singles players ready to roll till they drop and the perfect draw would be an additional 7 entries at Woodstock. There is no better value for your entry fee than testing your alone game against 5 qualifiers for the Ontario Singles Championships and another 7 team members heading to the Nationals. What a field, as it is all week in all events.
Of course the beauty of the Flight format is that each loss drops you to a lower Flight that eventually pools the various levels of ability.
Also looking for 6 teams to have a full draw for the Mixed Pairs on Friday July 22nd. The dessert for the 6 days of bowls celebration.
In Singles you are your own team but if interested in playing on a team, contact Noreen Welsh since extra parts are often required on short notice. Speaking of Singles we are always in need of markers for this event. Many games with a need to keep on schedule is facilitated by volunteers willing to set the jacks. Whatever time you could offer would be of assistance.

Included with your involvement in THE W.O.B.A. 116TH TOURNAMENT is partaking in a feast prepared by Chef Brian and staff on Opening Day. Sunday, after play is completed, you are an invited guest to fine dining a la knee. It will be served approximately at 5:30 PM.

CHECK AND CHECK AGAIN www.wobaweek.com
The webmaster has been mighty creative and busy providing the information you need to know.

BOB BATES' GREEN GAZE

2011-07-11T23:00:00.000-04:00

BB'S PROVINCIAL SINGLES SHEET

Singles is always my favorite event. We had a great competition in our District 10 playdowns with Peter Wong winning the final 21-18 & Jan Ferguson taking the Ladies final 21-19.

In the 5 games I played before being eliminated the scores were 21-18, 20-21, 21-20, 21-19, 19-21. All great games on good greens.

Now . . . we have to handicap the Provincials before wagering what's left of our Bob$$ (if any). Here's a little preliminary summary that may help you decide who to bet on.

It should be interesting to see how the odds fall in the Mens Finals in Kingston. A case can be made for almost every entrant to win a few games. Sometimes it's obvious . . . but this year I don't know who will be the favorite.

Fessler, McCartney, Covell, Genoile should all be close to being favorite. Everyone knows their credentials.

Mike Bester, Rob Steffen, Peter Wong & Martin Henley have been in the singles a few times lately and always win some games . . maybe this year a couple more.

Young guns Kody O, Greg Wilson and Steven Miller are wild cards due to break out. Would like to see Greg do well as he tunes up for this years competition in Australia. Kody won 5 games in the Burlington Singles this year.

Wallbank & Bush have been winners in team events a few times and should do well now on their own too.

Mike Wagner got the bronze last year and with that under his belt should be ready to compete hard again.

Bob Woods from Milton has won his district a few times in different events and if taken lightly can come up and bite you . . . and will be at high odds.

With a field like this I would love to be playing . . .

Note: As I write this don't know who won Dist 12. (Ed. Sum Tang )

Don't know the Ladies field as well as the men but don't need to know all the names (2 fill ins to come . . no posted winner in Dist 7 yet)( Ed. Jean Brighton ) to see that the favorites role could be a toss up between 2 consistant winners Shirley Ko & Jo Anne Bugler with Elaine Stevenson not far behind.

Last years Pairs & Fours Gold medal winning skips Michelle Whitehead & Joelle Russel couldn't enter the Singles last year but are here now to show their prowess in Singles play.

Pauline Hill & Fran Todd have represented Ontario before in the Singles. Laura Hudson won the Bronze last year and will be looking for a change of colour.

Katherine Smith is looking to fill the shoes of last years winner from Dist 6 (Marg Lepere) and won't be taken lightly.

The Ladies have their young guns too looking to break out in the majors as Christine Schuknecht is back again this year.

Marge Potter has been to the Cdns in Fours . . . . Joan Way gave some of the men a lot to handle in this years Burlington Singles.

Did I leave anyone out? Oh . . yes . . .my personal favorite . . my District Mixed Pairs partner Jan Ferguson. Going undefeated (4-0) in the Districts and beating 3 recent Ontario medalists along the way. Should be a good long shot bet.

(Note . . if you have run out of Bob$$ I'm sure Bob would gladly replenish your wagering capital if you donate a few more real dollars to the cause).

GOLD ON THE HILL - PROVINCIALS PAIRS 2011

2011-07-05T20:24:00.001-04:00

GOLD

CHRYSTAL SHEPHARD, LAILA HASSAN

GOLD

STEVE MCKERIHEN,DAVID ANDERSON

SILVER

CINDY TAYLOR, JEAN MCCRON

SILVER

CHRIS STADNYK, JEFF HARDING

BRONZE

SHARON FARRISH, JO ANNE BUGLER

BRONZE

JOHN BEZEAR, MARTIN HAALSTRA

MAXIMIZE THE POSITIVE, DIMINISH THE NEGATIVE

2011-07-05T10:48:00.000-04:00

What if:
we worked together to improve our lot whatever that may be.
Take for example. lawn bowls.
I know a young guy that has some great ideas, boundless energy, a passion for positive change but agitates the message with extraneous personal verbiage.
I also know an Association that works long volunteer hours to provide a recreational activity that brings great satisfaction to many people. I don't always agree with their direction so I offer suggestions for their consideration knowing the decision making rests with the duly elected Board.
Working together seems the strongest base to me but even parallel streams that can lean on each other has merit.
No time like the present. Let's get started on that to-day.

GOLDEN SHOW AT PROVINCIAL PAIRS IN WOODSTOCK

2011-07-04T07:15:00.000-04:00

So much to say, so little time. Isn't it wonderful.
No lack of things to do, places to go, people to greet without limitations.
I would rather play than spectate but I enjoy watching quality bowls on quality greens.
I am not saying all rinks were perfect, like people you could say, but I saw subtle adjustments and prolonged endurance to achieve the desired goal.
You know who won so nothing new there but I will add some personal observations.
Photos of the medalists along with kudos to the Club and tournament organizers and talk about the stars of the show will be forthcoming.
I know Weston mans the website at OLBA and the results are being relayed quickly from the Provincial site. So to add to our desire to have instant news, I tried tweeting results as play progressed. The comment was jokingly made that all that were interested were at the greens. Nevertheless I know that one or two of you did spend a day or two looking at your cell phone.
Championship results in all ways concluded this Canada celebration.
I am out of here, going bowling - later.

PREDICTORS PICK PAIRS - FINAL- ONTARIO CHAMPIONSHIPS

2011-06-28T00:15:00.001-04:00

MONDAY JUNE 27 PM
District 3's runner up team of Linda Hawkins and Diana May were ready to fill the D11 void but Skip Linda unfortunately broke her wrist. The next method to fill a bye is the District with the most entries.There were 10 ladies entries in D13 and that is how Jean McCron and Cindy Taylor have arrived on the roster sheet for the weekend action. Jean is an experienced competitor in Provincials and Cindy has just won the District Mixed Pairs with husband Ken.

MONDAY JUNE 27 AM
The selectors say this is a split field.Anyone in the top half could be the victor according to these experts.At least one player on the top 8 teams have been to the Canadians since 2008. Just looking at 2010. Michelle Whitehead and her mom Laurie Roth are defending Ontario Champs. Marg Lepere was the Singles winner last year. Helen Wright was in Edmonton in Pairs and Joelle Russell and Sandra Jefferies won Ontario Gold in Fours. And how about two real good Juniors - Christine Schuknecht just won the 2011 Ontario 18 and Under and Stephanie Miller was the 2010 Canadian Junior Gold victor. Some field is gathering in Woodstock.
WOMEN
1. D6 Marg Lepere (S), Katherine Smith 3 to 1
2. D10 Laila Hassan(S), Chrystal Shephard 3.5
3. D1 Michelle Whitehead (S), Laurie Roth 4
3. D12 Helen Wright (S), Helen Culley 4
5. D2 Maureen Thompson(S), Jeniffer Fisher 4.5
6. D14 Laura Hudson, Susan Smith(S) 5.5
6. D4 Jo Anne Bugler (S), Sharon Farrish 5.5
8. D16 Joelle Russell (S), Sandra Jefferies 7.5
9. D7 Carolyn Cook (S), Ellen Edwards 9.5
10 D3 Laura Ritchie(S), Yvette Vanderpost 10
11 D9 Donna McCallum (S) Christine Wild 11.5
11 D5 Maureen Donaldson (S), Joyce Anderson 11.5
13 D8 Christine Schuknecht (S), Sandy Weatherall 12
14 D13 Cindy Higgins(s), Carol Finlayson 12.5
15 D15 Stephanie Miller(S), June Miller 14
xx D13(B) Jean McCron(S), Cindy Taylor* (late replacement) Off the board

MEN
A 7 team race but especially close for the top five. This will be a very interesting competition. Look for a skilled performance from a number of players with National Team experience.I kind of think the number 1 seeds want to make amends for their early departure in the Fours. And right behind them Chris and Jeff have a thing or two to prove. The Besters are the Besters and Wayne Wright won Canadian Silver in 2009 along with Canadian Gold with his partner Don Caswell .Will the transplanted Australian John Bezear convert his skill to Canadian greens or will the 'on the edge' youth of Fitzgerald & Bruder break through. Is there a darkhorse. How about Wayne Wallwork and Al Purcell who were Ontario Golden in 2008 in Fours or John Whyte who was the same in Mixed Pairs the same year. Bring on the crowd, it will be good watch.
1. D11 Steve McKerihen (S), David Anderson 1.5 to 1
2. D6 Chris Stadnyk(S), Jeff Harding 3
3. D8 Mike Bester(S), Bob Bester 4
3. D3 Wayne Wright (S), Don Caswell 4
5. D2 John Bezear(S), Martin Haalstra 5
6. D7 Darryl Fitzgerald (S), Derrick Bruder 5.5
7. D10 Bob Bates (S), Ken Uyesugi 6.5
8. D9 Mark McFadyen (S), Frank Dinardo 8.5
9. D14 Wayne Wallwork (S), Al Purcell 9
10 D5 Charlie Roach (S), George Wilson 10.5
10 D4 Rick Wood (S), Glenn Keene 10.5
12 D12 John Whyte (S), Raymond Cheung 11
13 D16 Grant Fletcher(S), Ted Tozer 13
13. D13 Ron O'Sullivan (S), Gary Butineau 13.0
15 D1 Martin Henly(S), Frank Duransky 13.5
16 D15 Doug McLeese (S), George Boersma 15.0

SCHUKNECHTS RULE - CHRISTINE & JACOB ONTARIO CHAMPS

2011-06-26T10:13:00.006-04:00

HOT OFF THE PRESS- FINAL

GOLD

CHRISTINE SCHUKNECHT

JACOB SCHUKNECHT

SILVER

KAITLIN RYAN

MITCH DACK

BRONZE

Stirling Wood

Josh Cameron

FOURTH

Ashley Green

Luke Caldwell

Winners in both male and female will represent Ontario

at the Canadian Junior Singles Championships in

Montreal, Quebec from August 2 - 6, 2011

FINALS - GOLD
Kaitlin Ryan 5
Christine Schuknecht 21

GOLD
Jake Schuknecht 21
Mitch Dack 14

BRONZE
Ashley Green 6
Stirling Wood 21

BRONZE
Luke Caldwell 17
Josh Cameron 21

SEMI FINALS
Kaitlin Ryan 21
Ashley Green 7

Stirling Wood 9
Christine Schuknecht 21

QUARTERS
Kendall Jacobs (19)
Ashley Green (21)

Kaitlin Ryan - Bye

Christine Schknecht 21
Steph Kent 9

Stirling Wood - Bye

BOYS
SEMI FINALS
Jake Schuknecht 21
Luke Caldwell 14

Mitch Dack 21
Josh Cameron 16

QUARTERS
Jake Schuknecht 21
Graydon Wood 14

Luke Caldwell 21
Craig Phaneuf 17

Mitch Dack 21
Paul Schuknecht 3

Zack Steele 15
Josh Cameron 21

ONTARIO DISTRICT MIXED PAIRS 2011

2011-06-26T09:00:00.011-04:00

Provincials at Niagara On The Lake , August 6,7
The new NOTL with an artificial surface.
Canadians at Winnipeg, August 25-31
Unofficial

D1 Frank Duransky, Sue Duransky
D2 Jim Foley, Julie Foley
D3 Paul Davidson, Muriel LaPlante
D4 Rick Wood, Kay Johns
D5 Charley Roach, Wendy Buick
D6 Craig Thompson, Marion McQueen
D7 Joe Murphy, Hazel Reid
D8 Paul Courtice, Glenda Courtice
D9 Eldon McFadyen, Fran Todd
D10 Bob Bates, Jan Ferguson
D11 Steve McKerihen, Lisa McKerihen
D12 Rodger Thompson, Sharon Jeffrey
D13 Ken Taylor, Cindy Taylor
D14 Robert Steffen, Nicky Chamois
D15 Steven Miller, Sylvia Poulain
D16 Grant Fletcher, Edith Pedden

PROVINCIAL PAIRS RANKINGS 2011

2011-06-24T12:22:00.002-04:00

What do you think.
Can you analyse and study, compare and measure then make a guess about the future.
Rank the teams as you think they will finish in Woodstock at the July 2,3 Championships.
You are invited to rank the Provincial Pairs qualifying teams as you predict they will finish.
The individual rankings are averaged to establish the Cumulative Provincial Rankings.Numerically list your selections with #1 being your top choice You must list a minimum of 10 teams but do list all 16 teams if you choose.You can select men only, women only or both groups.Don't be wishy washy. No ties.If you are a participant in the Provincial Pairs 2011 , you cannot select your own team.Your selections are kept confidential. I cannot prevent individual bragging of personal wisdom.
Deadline - Wednesday June 29th
What does this all mean - nothing. A fun activity and it keeps a BIG event in focus.
Two things I hear when people see me at an event. How can you rate me so low or so high. I don't, we do. I was 1/15th of the ranking of the Fours.
Secondly - you jinxed me by the high ranking. My answer is no, I helped you. You will only be successful when you agree with others that you can win. Check the ponder list above.
Here are the results of the Fours:

June 15

Men

Ranked Actual

D11 1 13

D16 2 6

D3 3 6

D6 4 1

D4 5 5

D13 5 9

D8 7 9

D7 7 3

D2 9 4

D1 10 2

D10 11 13

D5 12 13

D12 13 6

D9 14 9

D14 15 13

D15 15 9

Women

Ranked Actual

D6 1 13

D11 2 2

D12 2 6

D15 2 9

D4 5 13
D9 6 1
D2 7 3
D1 8 9
D5 9 5
D10 10 9
D7 11 9
D16 12 6
D13 13 6
D14 13 13
D3 15 4
D8 16 13

Make your picks and send to BB now.
First rankings out to-day.

The Huron/Perth Men's Pairs Circuit 2011

2011-06-24T02:30:00.001-04:00

TOUR STOP SIX - WOODSTOCK
The Dr. Krupp is one of the tournaments that is a must on my annual list. Played on quality greens against skilled teams makes it a delightful day. Toss in excellent weather with a dash of a breeze on the hill , my teammate Len who thrives on a challenge and you can't help but smile all day. Their still are a few classic beautiful sterling silver trophies in use to engrave the winners names. Woodstock and the Dr. Krupp provide a chance to stand alongside a long history of renown winners. This year it is Mr. World Jurgen and Blue Bowl Billy. Talk about thriving, Jurgen's skill rises like a thermometer with a similar rise in the pace of the green. And Bill Baxter is the model of a consistent, effective lead. A strong pair and worthy members of the Krupp club. And look at that Davey Gray. Quietly, well not that quiet, and shyly, nor that shy, he has moved to the top of the overall. Consistent play has its rewards, actually not that much. The winner of the overall gets nothing at the end.
WEEK 6
1ST Jurgen Fessler, Bill Baxter
2ND Glenn Keene, Dave Gray
3RD Chuck Townsend, Doug Hoskin
4TH Wayne Wright, Al Ferguson
5TH Charley Lyle, Bruce Smith
Standings
After 6 Weeks
1ST Dave Gray 44 Points
2ND Jurgen Fessler 42 Pts
3RD Chuck Townsend 40 Pts
4th Larry McLellan 34 Pts
5th Bill Robertson 32 Pts
6th Bob Bester 28 Pts
6th Brian Broome 28 Pts
6th Mike Wagner 28 Pts
9th Ian Jones 24 Pts
9th Jim Roth 24 Pts
11th Wayne Wright 20 Pts
12th Jim Spence 18 Pts
12th Bill Baxter 18 Pts
14th Jack Muir 16 Pts
14th Fred Tilley 16 Pts
14th Glenn Keene 16 Pts
17th Brad Fleming 14 Pts
17th Doug Hoskin 14 Pts
19th Neil Beuerman 12 Pts
19th Remi Canuel 12 Pts
19th Tony Farrell 12 Pts
19th Dennis Schmidt 12 Pts
19th Al Ferguson 12 Pts
19th Bob North 12 Pts
25th Ken Bester 10 Pts
25th Dave Ducklow 10 Pts
25th Dylan Jacobs 10 Pts
25th Robert Lee 10 Pts
25th Charley Lyle 10 Pts
25th Bruce Smith 10 Pts
31st Buzz Bidwell 8 Pts
31st Moe Cosyn 8 Pts
31st Joe Dorsch 8 Pts
31st Shawn McFalls 8 Pts
31st Fred Truchon 8 Pts
OPEN DATES
July 13, July 20, July 27
TOUR STOP SEVEN
AUGUST 3
EXETER

TOUR STOP FIVE - THAMESFORD
A shot for the highlight bowls video. Four down coming home and being outplayed by Moe Cosyn and Buzz Bidwell in the game. Bob North finally played 4 useful bowls in one end. He had previously played a total of 4 useful bowls in the game. Down 2 in the head with last bowl, Skip Chuck Townsend had to catch the inside of the opponents front shot bowl to ricochet into their other shot bowl and the resting jack. If it was a perfect angle, with the correct weight, the opponents bowl would slide out of the count and the jack would be squeezed back and roll 2 feet towards the ditch into a bundle of joy.
Holy moly. A 5 count.
This was the first tournament at Thamesford since Bob Forbes died in January. A tireless worker and a strong supporter for his club and the sport, Bob's presence remains as solid as the new patio dedicated to his memory.
WEEK 5
1ST Chuck Townsend , Bob North
2ND Ian Jones, Larry McLellan
3RD Moe Cosyn, Buzz Bidwell
Standings
After 5 Weeks
1st Larry McLellan 34 Points
2nd Bill Robertson 32 Pts
3rd Bob Bester 28 Pts
3rd Brian Broome 28 Pts
3rd Dave Gray 28 Pts
3rd Mike Wagner 28 Pts
7th Chuck Townsend 26 Pts
8th Jurgen Fessler 24 Pts
8th Ian Jones 24 Pts
8th Jim Roth 24 Pts
11th Jim Spence 18 Pts
12th Jack Muir 16 Pts
12th Fred Tilley 16 Pts
14th Brad Fleming 14 Pts
15th Neil Beuerman 12 Pts
15th Remi Canuel 12 Pts
15th Tony Farrell 12 Pts
15th Bob North 12 Pts
15th Dennis Schmidt 12 Pts
20th Ken Bester 10 Pts
20th Dave Ducklow 10 Pts
20th Dylan Jacobs 10 Pts
20th Robert Lee 10 Pts
24th Buzz Bidwell 8 Pts
24th Moe Cosyn 8 Pts
24th Joe Dorsch 8 Pts
24th Shawn McFalls 8 Pts
24th Fred Truchon 8 Pts
24th Wayne Wright 8 Pts
OPEN DATE
June 29th
Tour Stop #6
Woodstock
July 6th

TOUR STOP FOUR - EXETER
It is necessary to keep the green header this week with this duo from Heritage LBC in Kitchener topping the tournament. Both are dedicated, exacting, skilled bowlers who seldom waver from their focused game face. They have become familiar faces on the Wednesday circuit making the 200 km round trip this week even more rewarding. They both have climbed near the top in the cumulative point standings. I thought I might be able to procure a late entry into this gathering but it was a full house. It was worth it to miss the day just to hear a tournament was stand and watch if you come.
WEEK 4
1ST Brian Broome, Mike Wagner
2ND Jack Muir, Bill Robertson
3RD Chuck Townsend, Dave Gray
4TH Dennis Schmidt, Neil Beuerman
5TH Jim Roth, Dylan Jacobs
STANDINGS
After 4 Weeks
1ST Bill Robertson 32 Points
2ND Bob Bester 28 Pts
2ND Brian Broome 28 Pts
2ND Dave Gray 28 Pts
2ND Mike Wagner 28 Pts
6TH Jurgen Fessler 24 Pts
6TH Larry McLellan 24 Pts
6TH Jim Roth 24 Pts
9TH Jim Spence 18 Pts
10TH Jack Muir 16 Pts
10TH Fred Tilley 16 Pts
12TH Brad Fleming 14 Pts
12TH Ian Jones 14 Pts
12TH Chuck Townsend 14 Pts
15TH Neil Beuerman 12 Pts
15TH Remi Canuel 12 Pts
15TH Tony Farrell 12 Pts
15TH Dennis Schmidt 12 Pts
19TH Ken Bester 10 Pts
19TH Dave Ducklow 10 Pts
19TH Dylan Jacobs 10 Pts
19TH Robert Lee 10 Pts
23RD Joe Dorsch 8 Pts
23RD Shawn McFalls 8 Pts
23RD Fred Truchon 8 Pts
23RD Wayne Wright 8 Pts
Next Stop #5
Thamesford
Wednesday, June 22
OPEN DATE
June 29th
Tour Stop #6
Woodstock
July 6th

TOUR STOP THREE - SEAFORTH
If the team includes a Bester, you know they will be in the running for top spot.
Bob who started playing because he was driving his sons to competitions anyway is now ranked with the top bowlers in the country. Jim Spence is a newcomer on the circuit and did his part to help the team win the Seaforth stop. For those that haven't played this Club, it is unique. One long green of 16 rinks which could stretch to 18 I believe. The greens ran well, the competition was sturdy, the food plentiful ( top notch pies ), the weather wonderfully summer ( some like it hot) ) and the people as nice as the dessert.
WEEK 3
1ST Bob Bester, Jim Spence 3W + 49
2ND Bill Robertson, Fred Tilley 3W + 42
3RD Brad Fleming, Dave Gray 3W + 36
4TH Jurgen Fessler, Larry McLellen 2w + 44
5TH Robert Lee, Dave Ducklow 2W +42
STANDINGS
After 3 Weeks
Bob Bester 28 Points
Jurgen Fessler 24 Pts
Larry McLellan 24 Pts
Jim Spence 18 Pts
Bill Robertson 16 Pts
Fred Tilley 16 Pts
Brad Fleming 14 Pts
Dave Gray 14 Pts
Ian Jones 14 Pts
Jim Roth 14 Pts
Remi Canuel 12 Pts
Tony Farrell 12 Pts
Brian Broome 10 Pts
Dave Ducklow 10 Pts
Ken Bester 10 Pts
Mike Wagner 10 Pts
Robert Lee 10 Pts
Joe Dorsch 8 Pts
Shawn McFalls 8 Pts
Fred Truchon 8 Pts
Wayne Wright 8 Points
Next Stop
Exeter
Wednesday June 15

TOUR STOP TWO - EXETER
A whole new top three this week ( 12 teams only top 3 ). Jurgen who wanders the world to bowl to get ready for the HP Sauce Circuit. ( Hmmm There is a natural sponsor. )
And Larry , the master of all things related to bowls. Both are headed to play in the Provincial Fours in a week.
WEEK 2
1ST Larry McLellan, Jurgen Fessler
2nd Brian Broome, Ken Wagner
3rd Shawn McFalls, Fred Truchon
STANDINGS
After 2 Weeks
1. Ian Jones 14 Points
1. Jim Roth 14 Pts
3. Remi Canuel 12 Pts
3. Tony Farrell 12 Pts
3. Jurgen Fessler 12 Pts
3. Larry McLellan 12 Pts
7. Bob Bester 10 Pts
7. Ken Bester 10 Pts
7. Brian Broome 10 Pts
7. Ken Wagner 10 Pts
11. Joe Dorsch 8 Pts
11. Shawn McFalls 8 Pts
11. Fred Truchon 8 Pts
11. Wayne Wright 8 Pts

SEASON OPENER - ST. MARYS

The review

Every week points will be allotted to the top teams based on the number of teams entered.

If 12 teams 1st = 12; 2nd = 10; 3rd = 8

If 14 teams 1st = 14; 2nd = 12; 3rd = 10; 4th = 8

If 16 teams 1st = 16; 2nd = 14; 3rd = 12; 4th = 10
If 18 teams & Up 1st= 18; 2nd = 16; 3rd = 14; 4th = 12; 5th = 10

Any different number of entries, I will figure it out --- secretly.

Players will win points as a team but the scoring standings will be by individual.

This is basically a Wednesday gathering of good bowls and good fun. Nothing wrong with it but rarely do you see the same team combinations from week to week.

We are just glad to have Wednesday afternoon off when we toil so hard the rest of the week.

Wouldn't you know it. I had to drop out so my planned partner, Ian Jones, obviously plays way over his head and wins the day with Jim Roth. Of course securing Jim was a bonus. This lefty from Sarnia is making waves both here and in Arizona. A winter resident in Sun City, Roth nary has time to clean his bowls between his playing and looking after the greens at his home club. And I must reluctantly add that Ian's skilled play is the norm, not the exception.

WEEK 1

1ST Ian Jones, Jim Roth 3W +58

2nd Remi Canuel, Tony Farrell 3W+48

3rd Ken Bester, Bob Bester 2W+58

4th Wayne Wright, Joe Dorsch 2W+46

STANDINGS

1. Ian Jones 14 Points

1. Jim Roth 14 Pts

3. Remi Canuel 12 Pts

3. Tony Farrell 12 Pts

5. Bob Bester 10 Pts

5. Ken Bester 10 Pts

7. Joe Dorsch 8 Pts

7. Wayne Wright 8 Pts
Tour Stop #2
Exeter Wed. June 1st

DISTRICT PAIRS PARED

2011-06-20T15:55:00.004-04:00

UNOFFICIAL
WOMEN
D1 Michelle Whitehead (S), Laurie Roth
D2 Maureen Thompson(S), Jeniffer Fisher
D3 Laura Ritchie(S), Yvette Vanderpost
D4 Jo Anne Bugler (S), Sharon Farrish
D5 Maureen Donaldson (S), Joyce Anderson
D6 Marg Lepere (S), Katherine Smith
D7 Carolyn Cook (S), Ellen Edwards
D8 Christine Schuknecht (S), Sandy Weatherall
D9 Donna McCallum (S) Christine Wild
D10 Laila Hassan(S), Chrystal Shephard
D12 Helen Wright (S), Helen Culley
D13 Cindy Higgins(s), Carol Finlayson
D13B Jean McCron (S), Cindy Taylor
D14 Laura Hawryszko, Susan Smith(S)
D15 Stephanie Miller(S), June Miller
D16 Joelle Russell (S), Sandra Jefferies

UNOFFICIAL
MEN
D1 Martin Henly(S), Frank Duransky
D2 John Bezear(S), Martin Haalstra
D3 Wayne Wright (S), Don Caswell
D4 Rick Wood (S), Glenn Keene
D5 Charlie Roach (S), George Wilson
D6 Chris Stadnyk(S), Jeff Harding
D7 Darryl Fitzgerald (S), Derrick Bruder
D8 Mike Bester(S), Bob Bester
D9 Mark McFadyen (S), Frank Dinardo
D10 Bob Bates (S), Ken Uyesugi
D11 Steve McKerihen (S), David Anderson
D12 John Whyte (S), Raymond Cheung
D13 Ron O'Sullivan (S), Gary Butineau
D14 Wayne Wallwork (S), Al Purcell
D15 Doug McLeese (S), George Boersma
D16 Grant Fletcher(S), Ted Tozer

2011 ONTARIO FOURS CHAMPIONS CROWNED IN SARNIA

2011-06-14T23:52:00.000-04:00

Some like it hot, some like it cold, some like both with bowls two days old.
Sarnia gave it all to us and the bowlers gave it right back with same old, same old, some surprises and games that weren't decided to the last bowl.
We had Lumley, Nesbitt and McKerihen gather the medals but not. We saw the break through of the Roth clan, nearly by the Fitzgerald group and short by inches by the experienced Welsh.
Another well run Provincial by the Sarnia Lawn Bowling Club, a location that is becoming a fixture in Championship play.

D9 Sheila Lumley(S), Mary Meldrum(V), Linda Baron(2), Heather Comba(L) GOLD

Round 1 D9 (20) D6 (16); Round 2 D9 (15) D7 (7); Round 3 D9 (18) D13 (7); GOLD D9 (16) D3 (4)
An important match to start the tournament and the winner would have a rolling start down the golden hill. The number 5 ranked Lumley team were up against the top ranked Marg Lepere, Katherine Smith, Wendy Devonshire, Sherry Riddick Niagara Falls group and it was as advertised. Lots of scoring but Sheila and friends prevailed and they sailed to the crown by steadily increasing their margin of victory each game.
An interesting side story was Heather played with Laura Seed last year and with both on new teams, it is a double success story. Off they both go to Toronto in August.

D6 Dave Houtby(L), Hugh Branston(V), Weston Nesbitt(2), Herb Nesbitt(S) GOLD

Round 1 D6 (23) D14 (1); Round 2 D6 (13) D13 (12); Round 3 D6 (21) D3 (12); GOLD D6 (15) D4 (9)

Of course when you are playing in the event, you miss all the exciting finishes. However it is easy to see that The Niagara Falls team had a battle with Gord Legacy, Ron Geniole, Martin Foxhall and David Llewellyn from D13. The verdict was in doubt to the last bowls of the game. Gold or not often only inches of difference. Many people told me that although the gold game was 6 shots apart at the end, it was nip and tuck with two ends to go. Larry and James McLellan along with Chris Johnson were on the cusp of victory along with Skip Jurgen Fessler who was waving the magic wand this game and doing a lot of tucking to keep the suspense high until near the end. But the methodical, consistent skilled play of 3 vets and Nesbitt the younger was again a proven winning formula.Speaking of Weston he played very well over the two days with limited time to chase the tournament schedule. And I must mention Dave Houtby playing lead.What a skilled player to have setting the table for his teammates to dine.

D11 Laura Seed(V), Lisa McKerihen(2), Kelly McKerihen (S), Heather Battles (L) SILVER

R1 D11(11) D14(10); R2 D11(18) D12(9); R3 D3(15 D11(13); R4 D11(18 D16(2); R5 D11(14) D3(13)

SILVER D11(18) D2 (16)

Did I say a McKerihen made it to the Canadians!That is usual but not one but two and both aren't Steve.

Now that will catch your attention.The female two aren't surprising when you see these offspring put down a smooth bowl with a distinct genetic connection. Kelly is now well known in her own right with her international experience and along comes Lisa who has the technique to follow the family tradition.

Talk about an interesting road these ladies followed to get to the GTA for a summer treat.. Up 11-0 in Game 1 they held on to edge the 2010 Provincial Novice Champs + 1 by one point. Doreen Souch(S), Sue Logeman ,Priscilla Downs, Nicky Chamois from D14 showed this next level is within reach.

Along comes D3 Laura Ritchie(S), Elaine Clayton,Yvette Vanderpost, Jan McLean in Round 3 and lo and behold this put together team at the last moment won their 3rd straight game on Day 1. Off to the Gold game go the Ritchie team and the McKerihen team will have to start a new climb toward the podium.

Just one round later these same two teams meet again and the drama is even heavier.

D3 are up 1 in the game, last end. D11 are laying 1, 8 inches in front of the jack with Laura Ritchie having both bowls to come. Laura continues her deft tournament touch by curling around the shot bowl to lie 1 and game 6 inches in front of the jack.

One bowl and tournament continuance rested in Kelly's hand. She surveyed the head, stepped confidently to the mat and with her drive caught the side bowl and picked the shot clean without jack movement.

Laura came up just short with her final bowl and with a measure D11 were in the 'B' final.

A dandy final it was. D2 Noreen Welsh(S), Julie Fowler, Cathy Townsend and Karen Robinson kept battling back until with the last bowl in Noreen's hand the final result was in doubt. Earlier Lead Heather Battles drew two beauties for D11 just in front of the jack and although D2's Cathy Townsend did cut it to 1 point down , the Battles' shot bowl prevailed and bumped the final margin to 18 - 16.

D1 Tom Roth(S), Wray Roth(L), Ron Whitehead(2), Jim Roth(V) SILVER

R1 D1(20) D5(12); R2 D3(18) D1 (14); R3 D1(23) D15 (8); R4 D1(13) D12(12); R5 D1(17) D2(7);

SILVER R6 D1(16) D7(12)

Family feud is upon us. The Roth's are claiming squatters rights to new Provincial territory and the Besters might not take kindly to this intrusion. It is Dad Wray with his sons Tom and Jim and Tom's son in law Ron married to his daughter Michelle. I know,I know, the woman folk have long ago made their presence known with Canadian gold for Erin, Canadian Silver for Jim's wife Sue, Provincial titles for Michelle, Laurie and Verna but this is mano a mano on the fields of green.

It is one of those situations where Dad Wray has been playing a long time and playing well but never had the opportunity to play in the Majors. Well he and the boys have made it happen.

They lost in the 2nd to D3 Wayne Wright(S), Don Caswell, Kody Olthof, Bob North and edged

D12 Dave Johnson(S), Bruce Lynn, Rick Matthews, Aldo Milani by a 13 -12 score and otherwise sailed

to the "B' final against D7 Darryl Fitzgerald(S), Andrew Wagner, Kevin Schinbein and Derrick Bruder.

The match was tight and going into the final end D1 were in front 14-12. Wray was around the jack with his pair and after Kevin raised some hope, Jim drew shot, a pattern repeated all weekend. Andrew was close but still 2nd shot and Jim drew another. The verdict was sealed and no man was going to put asunder.

Your first one is always a surprise but the clan is good and the parade has just started.

BRONZE

Karen Robinson (L), Cathy Townsend (2), Julie Fowler (V), Noreen Welsh (S)

BRONZE

Darryl Fitzgerald (S), Andrew Wagner (V), Kevin Schinbein (2), Derrick Bruder (L)

CHALLENGE 11- A BOWLS FUND RAISER TO BEAT CANCER

2011-06-09T17:41:00.000-04:00

I am back to prime the campaign pump for CHALLENGE 11.
Bowls R Us and we continue to support the search for a cure for cancer.

This is to announce the game is on for another season.

You can donate a minimum of $10 to the cause.

OR - You can donate and play 'Pick The Provincial Winners , The Big Three'. It involves predicting the 2 Ontario qualifiers in Fours, Pairs and Singles. Details below.

When you donate a minimum of $10 to the Cancer Society the real cash goes to charity but you end up with #10,000 'bob'.

It is your stake for some fun wagering. Just pick the teams, assign how much you are wagering and voila, a genius is discovered.

By the way the Fours Ratings to June 7th are posted on the blog. Study the teams and the odds and make your selections.
You just send me your pick(s) and I will post and send you a copy.

Here is what will happen to your donation this year:
1.You donate and request a receipt ( I will do the paperwork).2.You donate and you don't want a receipt. This group then have the option to be in on a group purchase of tickets supporting the Annual Cancer Society Lottery.
All prizes are converted to cash and divided equally after prorating your contribution. For prizes that can't be converted we will have our own draw to determine the winner. One share ( BOB) for each $10 donation.
3.You donate , don't want a receipt but prefer not to be involved in the lottery.

If you are up to it and want to match wits with worldly wisdom, here is your opportunity.
This is similar information but in more detail.

THE CHALLENGE: Have the biggest deposit in the BOB ( Bank of Bob ) when the Big Three {Fours, Pairs, Singles } 2010 Provincial Championships are completed.

THE COST: Ten dollar $10.00 entry fee but you can donate any amount you wish. All fees ( no administrative expenses, no cash to winners) will be donated to the CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY. Receipts will be issued by the Canadian Cancer Society if requested.I will tabulate and submit at the end of the Challenge and make the request for you.
ENTRY: Submit your name to me at any time but preferably before the Fours ( June 11, 2011) so you can participate in the 3 events. You can pledge your entry fee by email and then either wait to catch up with me somewhere in Ontario this summer or we will make individual arrangements. Multiple entries are accepted.You can be identified by your name, a team name or a numbered account ( a modern game ).
THE TASK: You will have $10,000 bob credited to your newly opened account for every $10 donated on entry. Your mission, "should you choose to accept it ...", will be to parlay that amount into a substantial profit. The method of your madness is to wager any amount of your dollars( minimum bet of $1000 ) on the upcoming BIG THREE Provincial Championships. This isn't the easy win, place, show as at the races but rather you have to pick the winners of the event. But to make it a cinch to be successful you win if your selections qualify for the Canadians ( 1st or 2nd ). If you lose all your money, game over and placed on the bankrupt list. Despite baseball's Pete Rose rule you can, are even encouraged, to bet on your own team.
THE ODDS: You have and are creating them as we speak by submitting your ranking predictions. They are ever changing so you can submit your 'bet' when you judge the odds are best for your maximum return.
PAYOUT: the Parimutuel system will be used but with no 14.25% commission deducted before the winning distribution. Wikipedia has a clear explanation of the calculations but, of course, I don't understand them so I do whatever I want.
PRIZES: The enjoyment of the camaraderie and the satisfaction of doing something for others without credit.

In Memory of Bob Saunders

2011-05-31T11:33:00.000-04:00

Our greeting was always brother Bob. The nose, the mustache, the glasses. It never failed, enthusiastic, smiling, interested. Memories will keep Bob by our side.

Robert Bruce Saunders
(November 8, 1935 - May 29, 2011)

Sign Guest Book

At the Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital after a short courageous battle with cancer, on Sunday May 29, 2011, Bob Saunders age 75 years. Beloved best friend and companion of Marjorie Kells. Loving father of Barry Saunders (Donna) and Brent Saunders. Predeceased by his daughter Brenda Roy (1978) and his son Daniel Saunders (1973). Cherished grandfather of Robert (Megan), Joanna and Ryan. Dear brother of Laura, Barbara and Bonnie. Fondly remembered by Carol Saunders. Dear friend of Jeff Kells (Roni) and Mark Kells (Sandra). Grampa Bob to Lucas, Bailey, Eric, Alexandra and Declan. Bob was a retiree of Wallace Barnes Associated Springs, Burlington and an active member of the Burlington Lawn Bowling Club. Bob will be missed by his many bowling friends here and in Florida. Visitaiton at the DODSWORTH & BROWN FUNERAL HOME, BURLINGTON CHAPEL, 2241 New Street (at Drury Lane), Burlington 905-637-5233 on Tuesday May 31st from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. and on Wednesday June 1st from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. Private cremation to follow. Interment St. Andrew's Anglican Church Cemetery, Grimsby at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

A SEEDING EXERCISE - HOW GOOD ARE YOU? ONTARIO FOURS

2011-05-31T10:40:00.000-04:00

Here we go again. Time to test your expertise in the field of Ontario Bowls.
The first event of the Big Three. Fours, Pairs, Singles
You are invited to rank the Provincial Fours qualifying teams as you predict they will finish.
The individual rankings are averaged to establish the Cumulative Provincial Rankings.Numerically list your selections with #1 being your top choice You must list a minimum of 10 teams but do list all 16 teams if you choose.You can select men only, women only or both groups.Don't be wishy washy. No ties.If you are a participant in the Provincial Fours 2010 , you cannot select your own team.Your selections are kept confidential. I cannot prevent individual bragging of personal wisdom.
Deadline Thursday June 9, 2011
What does this all mean - nothing.
If you looked at past rankings/results stats you would see falls down the ladder and wonderful shimmies up the pole. The podium conclusion hasn't been altered. You win on the field, not on paper.Just a fun task that generates interest for the event and awareness of the participants.In fact many of us do this exercise mentally for the major competitions. This time you can compare your long distance thoughts with others.

So take a look at the entries, do your analysis and send to bgnorth@sympatico.ca
LOOK ON THE BLOG FOR THE DISTRICT WINNERS

FRIDAY NIGHT SPICE

2011-05-30T15:33:00.000-04:00

What if:
At the Provincials there was a set time for the Reception.
Receptions are meant to host a crowd of people which allows the opportunity to mingle with the hosts, the players and other interested guests in attendance.
It makes it much easier for the good people who organize the event to plan and facilitate with a definite start and finish.
And to add some sizzle, conduct the positional draw for Saturday's play.
RECEPTION 7:00 PM DRAW 7:30 PM
All team reps will first draw for selection position. Any team not represented will have their draw conducted by the host Committee Chair or delegate - in front of the gathered masses.
Have a big board available and in the next round post the selected positions as they are drawn.
Have some fun. A witty MC, an involved audience could be a energetic start to the weekend.
There is still no team obligation to be there but I am wagering a 'bob' that the participants would be peppered with players.
And isn't it much easier for the draw master to be able to prepare the scorecards and scoreboards the night before.

Just a thought.

DISTRICT FOURS WINNERS 2011

2011-05-29T19:12:00.003-04:00

Unofficial
WOMEN
D1 Laurie Roth(S)Sue Duransky, Pat Chute, Bettyanne Rankin
D2 Noreen Welsh(S), Julie Fowler, Cathy Townsend, Karen Robinson
D3 Laura Ritchie(S), Elaine Clayton,Yvette Vanderpost, Jan McLean
D4 JoAnne Bugler(S), Kay Johns, Sharon Farrish, Marilyn Lancaster
D5 Julia Farrell(S), Shirley Vidler, Wendy Buick, Karen Peart
D6 Marg Lepere(S), Katherine Smith, Wendy Devonshire, Sherry Riddick
D7 Connie Steinman(S), Beverly Hitchman, Ellen Edwards, Betty Mayne
D8 Liz Geurtjens(S), Vi Young, Joyce Ruddell, Theresa Bester
D9 Sheila Lumley(S), Mary Meldrum, Linda Baron, Heather Comba
D10 Erin Chambers(S), Karen Marley, Elaine MacSween, Janet Luke
D11 Kelly McKerihen(S), Laura Seed, Lisa McKerihen, Heather Battles
D12 Doreen Semple(S), Gloria Cheung, Brooke Reid, Sandy McKenzie
D13 Peggy Dundas(S), Carol Finlayson, Pat Weissflog, Chris Pingle
D14 Doreen Souch(S), Sue Logeman,Priscilla Downs, Nicky Chamois
D15 Pauline Hill(S), Pat Gemmell, Sylvia Poulain, Donna McLeese
D16 Leone Braby(S), Sandra Jefferies, Esta Brock, Flo Barclay

Unofficial
MEN
D1 Tom Roth(S), Jim Roth, Ron Whitehead, Wray Roth
D2 John Bezear(S), Brian Fowler, Martin Haalstra, Dylan Jacobs
D3 Wayne Wright(S), Don Caswell, Kody Olthof, Bob North
D4 Jurgen Fessler(S), Larry McLellan, James McLellan, Chris Johnson
D5 Charlie Roach(S), Nic Van Wessel, George Wilson, Larry Anderson
D6 Herb Nesbitt(S), Hugh Branston, Weston Nesbitt, Dave Houtby
D7 Darryl Fitzgerald(S), Andrew Wagner, Kevin Schinbein, Derrick Bruder
D8 Mike Bester(S), Chris Bester, Bob Bester, Ken Bester
D9 Eldon McFayden(S),Frank Sneider, Blair Munshaw, Alex Graham
D10 Ken Uyesugi(S), Bob Bates, Eric Brands, Dave Carruthers
D11 Steve McKerihen(S), David Anderson, John Devonshire, Fred Wallbank
D12 Dave Johnson(S), Bruce Lynn, Rick Matthews, Aldo Milani
D13 Gord Legacy(S), Ron Geniole, Martin Foxhall, David Llewellyn
D14 Andrew Hudson(S),Robert Smith, John Hawryszko, Jim Smith
D15 Steve Miller(S), Bryan Luther, Jack Gemmell, Dave Miller
D16 Brian McCartney(S), Ron Wood, David Jefferies, Gerry LaPorte

CANADIAN IDLE

2011-05-25T13:31:00.016-04:00

It's Time.
The Victoria Day Weekend.
The Bowls Bell tolls for the traditional start of the Ontario lawn bowling season.
I have spent the winter producing and starring in a new series of Canadian Idle.
We were on location in Orlando/Kissimmee and Treasure Island on the Gulf in Florida. But we didn't want to miss the opportunity to experience the fun of snow in Ontario so did some hard time in Dresden during January and February.
But that was then and this is now.
Of course before the Queen's Day action I take my hot and cold wardrobes and head to the lee of the escarpment. I love the Niagara Falls openers. It is like a high school reunion without name tags but planned activity to give you space and interval to remember everyones name.
And St Marys was an oasis in the desert of rain.
By the way the greens ran very well both in the Falls and The Stone Town. Excellent work Jeff Clapp and Larry McLellan. Play both for a treat this summer.
Saturday and Sunday we did our traditional doubleheader. Fairmont first, what a beautiful day, and off to Burlington the next day for the premier preDistrict gathering of the Provincial pretenders. I am not sure of District 15 but every other District in this province, 1 to 16, Windsor to Ottawa made the trek to central casting and turned around and went home after. Thirty two teams drawing and driving , laughing and frowning. What a great group of people for social interaction to be serious competitive yet loose and relaxed. It works for me.
And again my thanks to the greenskeepers at these facilities for outwitting Mother Nature and creating a surface that played well and will only get better.

My health- many know but if you don't, I am a prostate cancer selectee. I have had surgery and radiation in the hope to eradicate those frisky, evasive little cells. My PSA is the barometer that measures the search for zero but I am slowly creeping up the ' what do we do next ladder'. I feel good, do what I have always done , don't fret over what I can't control and greet each day with the same enthusiasm.
I tell you all this because many ask me when we see each other after the winter and besides I want to repeat the preventative message.
My PSA was in the 30's before I received treatment. I had been going for the blood test on a regular basis but notification of the results were not forwarded in a timely fashion.
Number 1, be responsible for yourself.
One in six men will be a prostate victim. Next time you are in a crowd start counting and asking.
It isn't an exceptional case, it is part of your neighbourhood.
Number 2, don't wimp out. Get the blood test and the rectal examination.
This cancer has a high cure success rate when detected early.
Number 3, is there a choice?
I will be running our Cancer Challenge again this year. Many have joined in to have some fun and help the fund.
As last year's Cancer Bowls Challenge Supportors know, many have money held in escrow for disposition as you wish.
By all means join us when the Challenge 2012 opens for business. Details to follow.

Huron Perth Men's Circuit
Men's tournaments can survive and thrive.
Bowling to-day in St Marys. Awaiting the results.