Yearly Archives: 2026
LADIES OVER 60’s LEAGUE
On Wednesday 8 July, remaining match from fixture 20 was played between Breagle Glen C who played Castletown B at home. Castletown B won the match 4-2 but lost on points (103-110) due mainly to all six Breagle ladies scoring in the high teens. Two winners for Breagle were Wyn Collister who won to single figures and Kay Primrose-Smith who won to 10 against Linda Dobinson. Closest game resulted in a 21-20 win for Town’s Pat Rigby against Gwen Tuck.
The following morning, Thursday, fixture 21 took place which saw four 5-1 results. First of these was by South Ramsey A home to Breagle Glen C dropping only three points (123-49) with four of the South ladies winning to single figures. Stopping South getting a full house was Wyn Collister who won to 18 against Helen Caley. Second 5-1 win was by Ballaugh A home to Onchan (118-92) with Caroline Parker for the home team being the only player to win to single figures. Sole winner for Onchan was Rosemary Quirk who won to 13 against Alison Millard. Third 5-1 result was by Finch Hill who were home to Ballaugh B (106-59). Finch’s Lil Smith, Wendy Cowin and Sue Caley, plus Ballaugh’s sole winner, Brenda Bowyer, all won to single figures. Closest game resulted in a 21-15 win for Iris Kermode against Ballaugh’s Brenda Clayton. Fourth 5-1 win was by Breagle Glen A away to Marown (112-82) with Mavis Franks for Breagle and Marown’s only winner Lynda Cadamy, both winning to single figures. Closest game saw Trish Bull cross the line 21-18 against Rosie Winckle. Remaining three matches of this fixture resulted in 4-2 wins. First was by Nobles home to Peel (117-94) with Sue Gawne for the Nobles ladies being the only player to win to single figures. Two winners for Peel were Terry Berry who won to 15 against Paula Firth and Mary Moffatt who won to 18 against Dee Lewis. Second 4-2 result was achieved by Mooragh Park B who were home to neighbours South Ramsey B (92-86) who unfortunately were a player short. Two winners for South were Sue Collier and Lesley Murray who both won to single figures as did Joan Henderson for Mooragh. Ann Gale for South just missed out on making the scoreline three all when losing to 20 against Shirley Corteen. Last of the 4-2 wins was by Castletown A away to Breagle Glen B (117-94) with all games going into double figures. Two winners for Breagle were Jean Thackrah who won to 16 against Marie Ashurst and Voirrey Curphey who just pipped Barbarba Young 21-17. Match between Castletown B vs Mooragh Park A has been rescheduled for Thursday 16 July.
On Tuesday morning, Peel were on good form winning 5-1 at home to Mooragh Park B dropping only four points (122-41) with all of Peel’s five wins being won to single figures. Sole winner for the Mooragh ladies was Mary Bruce who won to 17 against Terri Berry. Mooragh Park A hosted neighbours South Ramsey A. Mooragh took the honours winning 4-2 (95-84) with South’s two winners, Judy Kelly and Elaine Moore, plus Janet Monk for the home team winning to single figures. Closest game of the morning was a 21-14 win for Mooragh’s Karen McGurgan against Helen Caley. Onchan were in fine form winning 5-1 at home against Ballaugh B (119-82) with Maureen Payne and Jane Lothian winning their games to single figures for Onchan. Stopping the whitewash was Gill Clarke who won to 14 against Sue McCourt. Breagle Glen B travelled to South Ramsey B coming away with a solid 4-2 win (103-93). Pauline Worrall and Jacqui Elliot for Breagle plus Sue Collier for South all won to single figures with Dot Mylchreest just edging South’s Julie Stephens 21-20. South’s other winner was Ann Gale who won to 16 against Voirrey Curphey. Nobles were again on exceptional form winning 5-1 away to Ballaugh A (117-97) with all games going into double figures. Rose Waterworth was Ballaugh’s only winner winning to 12 against Marilyn Ellison. Closest game was a 21-18 win for Libby Andrade against Barbara Graham. Breagle Glen A had a resounding 6-0 win at home to Castletown B (126-58) with three of the Breagle ladies winning to single figures. Two closest games saw Linda Dawson and Margaret Tasker both win to 16 against Sue Kerruish and Sheila Preston. Castletown A also had a good 4-2 win at home against Marown (111-80) with Anne Oates and Chris Price for the Town ladies and Marown’s Lynda Cadamy, winning to single figures. Marown’s other winner was Gill Christian who won to 18 against Sue Peach.
PLATE KNOCKOUT
Quarter finals of the Plate knockout took place over three nights (handicaps in brackets). First two quarters were played on Tuesday 7 July between Breagle Glen A (+31) home to Mooragh Park (+43), and Nobles (+23) home to Peel Sunset (+47). Although Breagle won 5-4 on games, they lost overall on points 184-169 with sisters Shannon and Bailey McMullan for Mooragh plus Margaret Tasker for Breagle winning to single figures. Closest game was a 21-16 win for Breagle’s Nicola Cain against Olivia Johnson. The Nobles ladies won 7-2 and also on points 206-186 with all games going into double figures. Two close games resulted in 21-19 wins for Peel’s Helen Cowley against Libby Andrade and Marilyn Ellison for Nobles against Louise Horsfall. Third quarter final was played on Thursday 9 July between Marown B (+51) home to Ballaugh B (+64). Marown won the match 5-4 and on points 211-187 with Crosby ladies Rosie Winckle and Elaine Dewhirst plus Elaine Fenton for Ballaugh winning to single figures. Closest game of the match saw Ballaugh’s Gill Clarke just get the better of Grace Cooper 21-18. Last quarter final played on Tuesday evening was a home derby between Castletown B (+51) and Castletown A (+12). The A ladies were on devastating form winning 9-0 (201-144) with four of the wins being won to single figures. Closest games were 21-19 wins for both Hannah Drewett and Kellie Maddrell against Sonja Mercer and Debra Cooper.
The semi-finals of The Jean Kelly and Plate knockouts are being played on Thursday 16 July. Draw is:
Jean Kelly knockout: Ballaugh A vs Marown A venue Nobles 1
South Ramsey vs Douglas venue Nobles 2
Plate Knockout: Marown B vs Mooragh Park venue Peel
Castletown A vs Nobles venue Finch Hill
Stevie Kelly Wins Maiden Peel Town Cup
Peel Town Cup 2026 - Stevie Kelly with sponsor Robert Scottie of Island Civils & Plant
Photo: Arnie WithersPeel Sunset Bowling Club hosted the popular Peel Town Cup on Saturday afternoon, attracting an entry of 60 players. Despite blustery conditions throughout the day, competitors were greeted by a much-improved playing surface, which helped ensure an enjoyable and competitive afternoon of bowls.
The quarter-final line-up featured a strong mix of home greeners and visiting players. In an all-Peel clash, Stevie Kelly booked his place in the semi-finals with a convincing 21-13 victory over Tommy McMeiken. Another closely contested encounter saw Marown’s Neil Withers overcome teammate Jamie Box, with Withers pulling away late on to secure a 21-16 win.
The closest match of the round saw Nathan Jones (Peel) edge past Austin Hart (South Ramsey) in a thrilling contest, eventually prevailing 21-20. The final quarter-final saw Paul Dunn defeat fellow Marown clubmate Juan Killip by 21-13 to complete the semi-final line-up.
The first semi-final saw Kelly continue his impressive form with a solid 21-16 win over Withers. Kelly controlled much of the contest and gradually built an advantage before seeing the game out to reach the final.
In the second semi-final, Dunn produced a solid performance to defeat Jones, whose run was ended, with Dunn in good form taking a 21-10 win to secure his place in the final.
The final produced an excellent contest between two Island players, with Stevie Kelly overcoming Paul Dunn 21-20 to claim his maiden Peel Town Cup title. Dunn made the brighter start and looked in control during the early stages, opening up a commanding 18-13 lead, a couple of end later the Marown man was lying two for game with the score at 19-15 a superb reaching bowl from Kelly took both of Dunn’s bowls away from the jack and with it stunned the jack through for the Peel man to score two to leave the game finely poised at 17-19. A single for Dunn put him within touching distance of the trophy with the score now 20-17.
Kelly, however, refused to be beaten. Showing great composure under pressure, he dug deep to win the next two ends scoring two doubles, the four points he needed to finish the match. The comeback saw Kelly overturn a three-point deficit to complete a 21-20 victory.
It was a fitting conclusion to an entertaining day’s bowls, with Kelly producing a superb comeback to cap off an impressive run through the competition. His victories over David Bradford, Tommy McMeiken, Neil Withers and finally Paul Dunn proved to be a tough route to victory, earning him a deserved maiden Peel Town Cup success.
At the conclusion of play, the presentation was made by competition organiser Philip “Pip” Pemberton, who thanked all 60 competitors for their support, along with the club members who assisted throughout the day. He also acknowledged the efforts of the greenkeeping team for providing a much-improved playing surface that received positive feedback from those taking part. Thanks were also given to Lynda Wilson, and Vall Allwood for their work off the green.
Pemberton also thanked the competition sponsors, Island Civils & Plant, for their generous support of the event. Robert Cottier, representing the sponsors, who confirmed they will continue to sponsor the competition for another two years, then presented the prizes to the successful competitors, bringing another enjoyable Peel Town Cup to a close.
In his speech Kelly reiterated Pemberton’s comments, particularly those about the condition of the green, thanking everyone including his opponent for a good final. A special mention must also go to Pip for the smooth running of the competition.
Jordan and Glynn Get Their Win!
Kennish Cup Winners 2026 - Glynn Hargraves & Jordan Cain
Photo: Phil CainJordan Cain and Glynn Hargraves Crowned Kennish Cup Champions
Jordan Cain and Glynn Hargraves emerged victorious at this year’s Kennish Cup, lifting the trophy after an outstanding day of bowls played in glorious weather.
A fantastic entry of 46 pairs competed for the coveted title, with play getting underway at 11:30am due to the large field. The green was running exceptionally well, although the many brown patches made for a challenging yet thoroughly enjoyable playing surface, producing plenty of close and competitive contests throughout the day.
Round One Highlights
There were several standout performances during the opening round, none more impressive than the junior pairing of Grayse Blencoe and Archie Dunn (Mooragh Park/Marown), who produced a superb display to defeat home green favourites Julie Stephens and Marty McDermott in a thrilling 21-19 encounter. Their composure and determination against experienced opposition was one of the performances of the day. With conditions proving difficult, many games across the draw were decided by the finest of margins before the competition reached the quarter-finals late in the afternoon.
Quarter-Finals
The first quarter-final saw Jordan Cain and Glynn Hargraves (South Ramsey) take on Becky Teare and Dave “Dido” Kelly (Castletown/South Ramsey). Becky and Dido made the brighter start, collecting a series of singles and a four to establish a commanding 12-6 advantage. However, the deficit sparked Jordan and Glynn into life. A remarkable run, consisting of a single followed by three consecutive fours, turned the match completely on its head as they raced to 19 before securing the two points they required to book their place in the semi-finals.
The second quarter-final featured four home greeners – Toby Hart and Alan Moore against Jenny Moore and James Teare in another absorbing contest. Toby led superbly throughout the early stages, while Alan was in excellent form at the back as they built a 14-7 lead. Jenny and James responded by switching their lead bowlers, a tactical move that proved highly effective. A couple of valuable three’s helped them recover and edge ahead 20-18. Toby and Alan showed tremendous resilience to level the match at 20-20, but Jenny and James held their nerve to score the deciding single on the final end and progress.
The third quarter-final between Stevie Rundle and Paul Routledge (Marown/South Ramsey) and Colin Kelly and Jamie Box (Marown) was evenly matched throughout. The scores were locked at 11-11 after seven ends, with both teams exchanging scores throughout the game. Colin and Jamie edged ahead with a crucial three, only for Stevie and Paul to respond immediately with a two. With little separating the pairs, the match was ultimately decided over the closing ends as Colin and Jamie finished strongly with three consecutive two’s to seal victory.
The final quarter-final saw newly engaged Ali Kearsley and Nathan Cooil face John Kennish and David Bradford. The match remained finely balanced during the opening exchanges, with John and David building a slight advantage through a three and a two before Ali and Nathan fought back to level the scores at 9-9. John and David then opened a four-point lead over the next two ends, only for Ali and Nathan to respond in kind. However, two decisive three’s from John and David secured the final semi-final place.
Semi-Finals
The first semi-final featured an all-South Ramsey clash between Jordan Cain and Glynn Hargraves and Jenny Moore and James Teare. Jordan and Glynn made an excellent start, collecting several two’s to move into a 13–8 lead. Jenny and James responded brilliantly with a four to narrow the deficit to just one shot. Unfazed, Jordan and Glynn regained control and stretched their advantage to 20-13. Lying game down James managed to produce a last bowl saviour that kept the pairings hopes alive with a single, Jenny then produced a series of outstanding lead bowls to inspire another comeback, reducing the score to 20-17. With momentum shifting, Jordan and Glynn remained composed and produced an excellent final end to secure their place in the championship match.
The second semi-final saw Colin Kelly and Jamie Box face John Kennish and David Bradford. John and David controlled the early stages, establishing a 13-7 lead. Colin and Jamie battled back impressively with a series of two’s and a single to close the gap to 14-12, but their comeback ultimately fell short. John and David finished strongly with a succession of singles to book their place in the final.
The Final
The final produced a fitting conclusion to an excellent day’s bowling. Jordan and Glynn held a slender 12-10 advantage after 10 ends before taking complete control of the match. Outstanding lead bowling from Jordan, combined with Glynn’s quality at the back, helped extend their lead to 19-10 over the following four ends.
John and David refused to surrender, responding with a single and a two to keep their hopes alive. On what proved to be the decisive end, John delivered an excellent bowl into the corner, only for Jordan to produce an even finer delivery to edge inside and claim shot. Several bowls came close to altering the outcome, but none could improve on Jordan’s effort.
With the final bowl of the match, Glynn calmly delivered the decisive shot, adding another counting bowl to secure the two points required and seal a deserved Kennish Cup victory 21-13.
Presentation
Following the final, Competition Secretary James Teare thanked the large crowd who stayed to watch the conclusion of the event and expressed his gratitude to the many volunteers whose efforts made the competition such a success.
Special thanks were extended to:
* Glynn and his greenkeeping team for preparing an excellent playing surface
* Steve Moore for efficiently running the competition sheets throughout the day
* The club’s ladies for providing another outstanding selection of refreshments
* Everyone who helped with measuring, marking cards and the many behind-the-scenes tasks that ensured the event ran smoothly
Special Awards
Best Junior Players – Archie Dunn, Kian Bradford & Grayse Blencoe
All three juniors were recognised for their excellent performances, positive attitude and sportsmanship throughout the day. They represented the future of the game superbly and are undoubtedly stars in the making.
Furthest Progressing Lady – Jenny Moore
Furthest Progressing Fourth Division Player – Steve Kelly, who partnered wife Judy Kelly in an excellent run to the last 16
Champions
Jordan Cain and Glynn Hargraves were then presented with the Kennish Cup. Speaking on behalf of the pair, Jordan thanked the event sponsor, Voice Over by Sarah Hart, everyone involved in organising and running the competition, the volunteers, and all those who contributed to another highly successful Kennish Cup.
The day was a tremendous success, featuring outstanding bowling, close competition, excellent sportsmanship and a fantastic atmosphere from start to finish. Congratulations once again to Jordan Cain and Glynn Hargraves, worthy champions of the 2026 Kennish Cup.
Photo: James Teare
LADIES OVER 60s LEAGUE
On Monday 29 June, the rearranged match from fixture 17 took place between South Ramsey B home to Onchan. Match finished 4-2 in favour of the Onchan ladies (103-89) with Wendy McDowell and Maureen Payne for Onchan plus Sue Collier for South all winning to single figures. Lesley Murray nearly made the score three all when she lost to 20 against Kay McKiernan. The following morning (Tuesday), two full house were scored. First of these was by Peel away to South Ramsey B (126-77) with Karen Moss being the only player to win to single figures. Closest game resulted in a 21-17 win for Val Allwood against Sue Collier. Second full house was by Mooragh Park A against their B team (126-29) with all but one game being won to single figures; this being Mary Bruce who lost to 14 against Lynn Mayers. The Nobles ladies continue to head the top of the table with a good 5-1 win away to Breagle Glen A (114-94) with Sue Gawne for the visitors and Breagle’s sole winner, Trish Bull, winning their games to single figures. Two closest games resulted in 21-19 wins for Paula Firth and Marilyn Ellison against Alison Stockham and Linda Dawson. South Ramsey A also won 5-1 away to Onchan (116-99) with Elaine Moore for South being the only player to win to single figures. Two tough battles resulted in 21-20 wins for South’s Jill Quayle and Helen Caley against Pauline Cowley and Jane Lothian. Sole winner for Onchan was Maureen Payne who won to 11 against Gillian Jopson. Finch Hill won 4-2 at home against Castletown B (102-87) with Lil Smith and Brenda Williams for Finch plus Pat Rigby for ‘Town all winning to single figures. After a nip and tuck game, Finch’s Iris Kermode eventually crossed the line 21-20 against Linda Dawson. The other winner for the Castletown ladies was Marie Ashurst who won to 10 against Wendy Cowin. Marown visited Ballaugh A – match finished three all but Marown won on points (103-92). Lynda Cadamy and Rosie Winckle both won to single figures for the Crosby ladies with Mair Moore just missing out on a win when she lost to 19 against Ballaugh’s Gail Corrin. Ballaugh A made their way to Castletown A – match finished three all, but Ballaugh took the win by one point (96-95). Chris Price for the Town ladies and Rose Waterworth for Ballaugh both won to single figures with Michele Cubbon just pipping Castletown’s Sue Wilshaw 21-19. Next day (Wednesday) home derby between Breagle C and B resulted in a resounding 5-1 win for the B Team dropping only one point (125-79) with Jean Thackrah and Jenny Cain winning to single figures. Stopping a whitewash was Gwen Tuck who won to 20 against Pauline Worrall.
Last Thursday morning, four full houses were scored. First of these was by Marown home to Breagle Glen C (126-40) with all but one game being won to single figures. Only player to get into double figures for Breagle was Gwen Tuck who lost to 13 against Rosie Winckle. Second full house was scored by Ballaugh A home to South Ramsey B (126-75) with Christine Macdonald and Julie Reilly winning to single figures. Sue Kinrade for South just missed out on a win when she lost to 20 against Alison Millard. Third full house was by Breagle Glen A away to Mooragh Park B (126-65) with Mavis Franks and Alison Stockham winning to single figures. Closest game of the match was a 21-15 win by Margaret Tasker against Mary Bruce. Last of the full houses was by South Ramsey A home to Finch Hill (126-76). South’s Lorraine Moore was the only player to win to single figures. Sue Caley nearly clinched a win for Finch when losing to 19 against Helen Caley. Nobles took on Castletown A at home winning the match 5-1, dropping only four points (121-71). Sole winner for Castletown was Hilary Kermode who won to 16 against Dee Lewis. Paula Garrett, Sue Gawne and Marilyn Ellison all won to single figures for the Nobles team. Breagle Glen B hosted Mooragh Park A with the southerners winning 4-2 and by four points only (103-99) with Mooragh’s Janet being was the only player to win to single figures. The other winner for Mooragh was Elaine Slack who won to 12 against Elaine MacFarlane. Ballaugh B travelled to Castletown B coming away with a three all draw but winning the match by one point (93-94). Susan Kerruish for ‘Town and Gilly Clarke for Ballaugh won to single figures with Elaine McElroy pipping Ballaugh’s Ann Kinvig 21-15. Peel Sunset drew three all at home to Onchan but took the honours on points (115-95). Shirley Corrin for Sunset was the only player to win to single figures with Rosemary Quirk for the visitors crossing the line 21-19 against Beverly Wilson.
This Tuesday morning, Nobles again were in no mood to take prisoners scoring a full house away to South Ramsey B (126-49) with four of the Nobles ladies winning to single figures. Sue Collier nearly won her game for South when she lost to 18 against Caroline Corlett. Peel had a good 4-2 win at home against Ballaugh A (114-92) with Peel ladies Joyce Kelly and Mary Moffatt winning to single figures. Two winners for Ballaugh were Michele Cubbon who won to 16 against Shirley Corrin and Alison Millard who won to 14 against Terri Berry. South Ramsey A made the short trip to Ballaugh B coming away with a 4-2 win (115-78) with Jackie Murley and Judy Kelly for the visitors winning their games to single figures. Two winners for Ballaugh were Brenda Clayton who won to 17 against Anne Buck and Gail Curphey who won to 14 against Helen Caley. Onchan had a sound 5-1 win at home against Finch Hill (120-83) with Maureen Payne for Onchan being the only player to win to single figures. Sole winner for Finch was Lil Smith who won to 15 against Anne Bannan. Marown made their way to Mooragh Park A coming away with a three all draw but winning on points (103-87). Lynda Cadamy and Celia Joughin for the Crosby ladies plus Janet Monk for Mooragh all won to single figures. Closest game saw Marown’s Mair Moore lose to 17 against Pat Lenton. Castletown A also scored a full house at home against a one player short Mooragh Park B (126-38) with four of Town’s wins being won to single figures. Highest scoring game was a 21-11 win for Sue Wilshaw. Home derby between Breagle A&B resulted in a resounding 6-0 win for the A team (126-67) with Trish Bull and Linda Dawson winning to single figures. Closest game saw Alison Stockham just get the better of Voirrey Curphey 21-19.
CASTLETOWN A CONTINUE TO LEAD THE WAY
LADIES OPEN AGE LEAGUE : Last Wednesday evening (1 July), two remaining matches from fixture 14 were played. First was Breagle Glen A home to Peel Sunset; match finished 6-3 to Breagle (173-134) with southern ladies Nicola Cain and Trish Bull winning to single figures. Linda Dawson for the home team had a very close game against Helen Cowley eventually crossing the line 21-20. Three winners for Peel were Val Allwood who won to 12; Lynda Wilson who won to 17, and Emilie Moss to 18. Second match was between Nobles at home to Castletown A. Unfortunately for the Nobles ladies, Castletown were too strong winning 7-2 dropping only four points (185-89) with six of Town’s ladies winning to single figures. Two winners for Nobles were Joanne Kelly who just crossed the line 21-20 against Jenny Saunders and Tina Hampson who won to 18 against Anne Oates.
*On the Friday evening (3 July), South Ramsey were on impressive form scoring a full house away to Breagle Glen B (189-81) with six of the northerners winning to single figures. Anita Roberts for Breagle just missed out on a win for her team when losing to 20 after a nip and tuck game with Lesley Murray. Peel also put in a good performance winning 7-2 (183-140) away to Ballaugh B. Peel’s Emilie Moss was the only player to win to single figures. Two winners for Ballaugh were Natalie Cubbon who pipped Jo Corkill 21-20 and Charlotte Nesson who won to 16 against Olivia Berry. Another close game resulted in a 21-20 win for Peel’s Beverly Wilson against Maggie Hughes. Marown A also put in a solid performance away to Nobles winning the match 6-3 (169-133) with Jayne Smith plus mother and daughter Clare and Emily Cooper all winnng to single figures for the Crosby ladies. Three winners for Nobles were Joanne Kelly who won to 13 against Zoe Pearson, Paula Firth who won to 14 against Lil Smith and Tina Hampson who won to 16 against Helen Withers. Castletown A kept up the pressure at the top of the table by winning 5-4 away to Mooragh Park (161-142) with Hilary Kermode, Tracy Moore and Jenny Saunders for ‘Town plus Janet Monk for Mooragh all winning to single figures. Four close games resulted in Mooragh’s Bailey McMullan and Grayse Blencoe winning 21-20 and 21-18 against Sue Wilshaw and Rebecca Teare plus Stella Watterson and Chris Price for the away team winning to 19 and 20 against Shannon McMullan and Joy Morris. Douglas hosted Breagle Glen A winning 6-3 and by one point only (147-146) with Mel Molesworth and Emma Sayle for the Douglas ladies plus Trish Bull and Roz Cannon for Breagle all winning to single figures. Breagle just missed out on reversing the scoreline when Margaret Tasker lost to 19 against Jane Lothian and Katy Williams losing to 20 against Harley Garrett. Ballaugh A made their way to Marown B and although the Ballaugh ladies won 5-4 on games they lost by one point (149-150). Maria Dimsdale and Michele Cubbon for Ballaugh plus Elaine Dewhirst for Marown all won to single figures. Closest game of the match was a 21-18 win for Ballaugh’s Alison Quaggan against Lillie Barrett.
JENNY QUALIFIES FOR UK CHAMP OF CHAMPIONS
The Ladies Association Isle of Merit (Barbara Lee trophy) was played on Saturday 4 July at Finch Hill Bowling. This is the first time this competition has been played as a qualifier for the BCGBA Champion of Champions which is due to be held at Owleywood BC at the end of September. The Merit attracted an entry of 17 ladies; games played to 21 off scratch.
In the first half of the draw, Jenny Moore from South Ramsey Bowling Club was in ruthless form all afternoon not allowing any of her opponents to score double figures. Jenny sealed her place in the final winning her opening game 21-8 against clubmate Kim Hargraves; a 21-7 quarter-final win against Lisa Pugh from Marown, with an even more impressive 21-4 semi-final win against her mum, Elaine.
In the second half of the draw, Jayne Smith from Marown also sealed her place in the final in fine form with a 21-2 opening game against Elaine Hawkins; a 21-10 quarter-final win over stablemate Lillie Barrett and a sound 21-11 semi-final win over Shannon McMullan from North Ramsey.
The final was a one-way affair with Jenny dominating from the start. Despite Jayne trying her best and playing some good bowls, Jenny ran out 21-5 to add this to the Ladies Manx Champion title she won last weekend. Jenny is certainly a force to be reckoned with!
Presentation of trophy and prizes was made by Lynda Wilson, Secretary of the IOM Ladies Association, who thanked Finch Hill for hosting and providing very welcome refreshments throughout the afternoon, also congratulating and wishing Jenny all the best at the Champion of Champions competition in the UK.
Dunn Wins 2nd Manx Championship Title
Manx Championship Winner 2026 - Paul Dunn (Marown)
Photo: Neil WithersThe 2026 Manx Championship was brought to a conclusion on Wednesday evening at Douglas Bowling Club, in poor conditions for the bowlers which worsened throughout the evening.
The qualifying for the quarter finals had taken place on Sunday afternoon with Finch Hill and South Ramsey the two greens used to get through the earlier rounds. This method of qualifying has caused a lot of talk from local bowlers, it is certain there will be a change in 2027 to how the competition is played.
To ensure fairness in the latter rounds a re-draw took place for the quarter finals, due to the possibility of players qualifying from a venue that they are required to play on due to being one of the host clubs, however there were no qualifiers from either host club on this occasion.
The first quarter final saw Reg Temporaza (Onchan) take on Alex Yates (Nobles), with the former having three tough qualifying games on the Sunday, the Nobles man was level after 15 ends, went on a five end scoring run, taking eight chalks to build a commanding 17-9 lead. Temporaza fought back to get to within two chalks at 18-20, only for Yates to take a single to seal a 21-18 win to advance to the semi-finals for the first time.
The second semi-final was billed as a blockbuster, but in reality was anything but that with Peter Jones taking on his Marown teammate and captain Paul Dunn, with the latter building a 10-2 lead after nine ends. Jones reduced the deficit to three chalks winning five of the next seven ends, to put the score at 10-13, however Dunn finished the game strongly to score eight chalks over five ends to seal a convincing 21-10 win in just 21 ends.
In the bottom half of the draw the surprise package, Rob Middleton (Peel) who I previously reported as a man not to be written off, got off to a flier to lead 7-0 against Jamie Box (Marown) after just four ends. The Marown man responded by winning the next five ends to lead 8-7. From there Middleton was in control of the game, never losing two consecutive ends, whilst going on a five end scoring run on his way to a convincing 21-14 victory.
The last semi-final was between two big hitters, with the worsening conditions most would have expected this to play into Colin Kelly’s (Marown) hands, however Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly had other ideas as he led by four chalks after 19 ends with the score at 14-10. Colin managed to take the lead at 16-15, scoring three doubles to turn the game round, only for Barney to see the game out, with the Peel veteran sealing a 21-17 win.
The semi-finals were nicely set up with Dunn and Kelly the clear favourites to advance to the final, with Yates and Middleton undoubtedly the underdogs.
Dunn had to battle throughout his game with Yates, with the latter leading early on in the game at 8-6, then again at 14-13 after 18 ends. The Marown captain won five of the last ends, scoring three doubles, keeping Yates to singles to secure his place in the final with a 21-17 win.
With Dunn doing his part, it was now up to Kelly to set up the final that everyone wanted to see, however Middleton had other ideas. Despite trailing 1-7 early on Middleton responded positively to turn a deficit of six chalks into a five chalk lead by the 20th end, with the score at 14-9. Over the next four ends the Peel men exchanged three chalks for the gap to remain at five chalks, but putting Middleton four chalks from the final with the score at 17-12. A composed finish saw Middleton seal a 21-15 victory to advance to the final.
At the final stage the neutrals would undoubtedly and perhaps rightly have been hoping for a huge upset, however this didn’t look to be on the cards with Dunn starting the game strongly to build a solid lead of 9-1 after six ends. From there Middleton settled into the game to reduce the deficit to just three chalks after 14 ends, with the score now 8-11.
The Marown man found another gear to retake an eight chalk advantage after 19 ends with the score 17-9. Dunn got to within one end of victory, with the score now 19-12. Once again Middleton fought back to close the gap to three chalks (17-20) as he won four of the next five ends. Dunn secured the one chalk needed to pick up his second Manx Championship title in front of his Fiancée, and his two boys who got to see him lift the famous trophy.
The presentation was made by Association President Mark Kneen, who thanked all the host clubs for the preparations on the greens, providing refreshments, along with the Competition Committee for running the sheets.
There will be three representatives representing the Isle of Man in the British Senior Merit in Crosby, Liverpool on Saturday 25th July. Best of luck to all our representatives.
Photo: Neil Withers
LADIES OPEN AGE LEAGUE
LADIES OPEN AGE: After a busy bowling festival week, fixture 13 was played on Friday 19 June. South Ramsey were on fine form winning 8-1 away at Nobles dropping only three points (186-70). Stopping a whitewash was Colese Creer who won to 18 against Lauren Groen. Breagle Glen A also had an impressive 8-1 (177-103) win at home to Ballaugh A with four of their ladies winning their games to single figures as did Ballaugh’s sole winner, Karen Young. Two closest games saw Trish Bull and Angela Bennett both win to 15 for the Breagle ladies. Castletown A travelled to Peel coming away with a solid 6-3 win (172-152) with Town’s Rebecca Teare and Chris Price winning to single figures. Scoreline could have been reversed when Peel’s Emilie Moss and Niamh Stringer both lost to 20 against Kellie Maddrell and Jenny Saunders. Mooragh Park also had a good 6-3 home win against Marown B (155-112) with six of the nine games being won to single figures – four for Mooragh and two for Marown. Closest game of the match resulted in a 21-15 win for Marown’s Emily Cooper against Jackie Hassall. Douglas also had a sound 6-3 away win at Castletown B (163-125) with four of the Douglas ladies plus a Castletown lady winning to single figures. Other two winners for ‘Town’ were Sue Wilshaw who won to 18 and Rachel Palmer who won to 11. Ballaugh B won 5-4 at home to Breagle Glen B (162-138) with Gill Clarke and Charlotte Neesom for the home side and Pauline Worrall for the visitors winning to single figures. Breagle’s Jacqui Elliott had a tough game against Rachel Thomas eventually crossing the line 21-19.
On Wednesday 24 June (fixture 14), Marown B put in a solid home performance winning 6-3 (172-119) against Breagle Glen B with four of the Crosby ladies winning to single figures. Three winners for the visitors were Voirrey Curphey who won to 17, Anita Roberts who won to 12 and Pauline Worrall who won to 17. Marown’s Martha Butler had a good game against Chrissy Woodward before crossing the line to win 21-18. Mooragh Park won 6-3 at home (147-128) to neighbours Ballaugh A. The three winners for Ballaugh were Maria Dimsdale, Michele Cubbon and Karen Young who all won to single figures as did Janet Monk and Shannon McMullan for Mooragh. South Ramsey made their way south to Castletown B coming away with a solid 6-3 win (167-113) with four of South’s ladies winning to single figures. Three winners for Castletown were Aaslish Moore who won to 16, Marie Ashurst who won to 15 and Barbara Young who won to 10. The following evening, Marown A had an impressive 6-3 away win at Douglas dropping only four points (185-103) with four of their six wins being won to single figures. The winners for Douglas were Paula Garrett who won to 19 and Rebecca Jacobs and Emma Sayle who both crossed the line 21-20 against Philippa Taylor and Debbie Leece. Two remaining matches from this fixture (Nobles vs Castletown A, and Breagle Glen A vs Peel) have been re-arranged for Wednesday 1 July.
Last Friday evening, 26 June, Castletown A won 7-2 at home dropping only five points against Ballaugh B with four of the ‘Town’ ladies winning to single figures. Two winners for Ballaugh were Victoria Johnson who won to 17 against Rachel Palmer and Maggie Hughes who had a battle with Kellie Maddrell before getting the point needed to win 21-20. Marown A won 6-3 (155-122) at home to Breagle Glen A with Clare Cooper, Louise Tebay, and Debbie Leece for the Crosby ladies, plus Alison Stockham and Margie Tasker for Breagle all winning to single figures. Closest game saw Jayne Smith for the home side win to 18 against Ros Cannon. South Ramsey hosted Marown B and although Marown won 5-4 on games they lost the match on points (146-136). Elaine Moore and Gill Dixon for South and Grace Cooper for Marown all won to single figures with Lil Smith and Martha Butler for the visitors both having tough games eventually winning 21-20 and 21-19 respectively against Kim Hargraves and Anne Buck. Peel put in a solid home performance winning 7-2 (163-122) against Nobles with four games being won to single figures – three for Peel and one for Nobles. Colese Creer and Lisa Bradshaw just missed out on two wins for the visitors when they both lost to 20 against Emilie Moss and Louise Horsfall. Douglas made their south to Breagle Glen B coming away with an impressive 6-3 win dropping only four points. Scoreline could have been 8-1 to Douglas as both Rebecca Jacobs and Harley Garrett both lost to 20 against Jacqui Elliott and Anita Roberts. Third winner for Breagle was Voirrey Curphey who won to 19 against Sue McCourt. Another solid 7-2 win was by Ballaugh A at home to Castletown B (179-118) with four of the Ballaugh ladies winning to single figures. Two winners for Castletown were Marie Ashurst who won to 19 against Michele Cubbon and Jo Robert who won to 13 against Charlotte Neeson.
LADIES OVER 60’s LEAGUE
Having had a break due to Festival week and the Over 60’s Veterans Team playing away, fixture 17 was played last Thursday in very warm and humid conditions but this did not deter from some excellent bowling. Nobles ladies were once again on superb form scoring a full house at home against Mooragh Park A (126-73) with Libby Andrade and Sue Gawne for the home side winning to single figures. Two closest games saw Jo Smith and Marilyn Ellison both cross the line 21-18 against Karen McGurgan and Joy Morris. Breagle Glen B had a good 5-1 win at home against Ballaugh B (116-71) with three of the southern ladies winning to single figures. Sole winner for Ballaugh was Brenda Bowyer who won to 11 against Pauline Worrall. Marown won 4-2 at home (111-60) against a player short Finch Hill with three of the Marown ladies winning to single figures as did Finch’s Lil Smith. Other winner for Finch was Sue Caley who won to 19 against Sue Hammond. Breagle Glen A had a good 4-2 win away against Ballaugh A (105-87) with Linda Dawson and Angela Bennett for the visitors and Michele Cubbon for the home team winning to single figures. Closest game resulted in a 21-19 win for Breagle’s other winner Margie Tasker against Julie Reilly. Another 4-2 win was by Breagle Glen C away to Mooragh Park B (108-89) with Edwina Reid and Win Collister for Breagle winning to single figures. Closest game of the match saw Gwen Tuck just pip home-greener Diane Robinson 21-20. Castletown B drew three all at home against South Ramsey A, but South took the honours on points (100-87). Closest game resulted in a 21-14 win for Town’s Pat Rigby against Lorraine Moore. Castletown A drew three all away to Peel winning the match by one point only (97-96). Castletown’s Hilary Kermode was the only player to win to single figures with Chris Price having a nip and tuck game with Peel’s Val Allwood before crossing the line 21-16. A rearranged match from this fixture between South Ramsey B at home to Onchan was played on Monday morning. Onchan took the honours winning 4-2 (103-88). Wendy McDowell and Maureen Payne for Onchan, plus Sue Collier for South all won to single figures with Kay McKiernan for the visitors just pipping Lesley Murray to the post 21-20.
Two postponed matches from fixture 16 were played on Friday morning, 26th June. First of these was Castletown A at home to a player short South Ramsey B. Castletown won 5-1 (118-60) with Jenny Saunders and Anne Oates for Town winning to single figures. Stopping a whitewash was Sue Collier who to 13. Second match was between Breagle Glen A home to Peel. Breagle took the honours by winning 4-2 and on points (106-96) with Mavis Franks for the home side being the only player to win to single figures. Two winners for Peel were Beverley Wilson who won to 10 and Val Allwood who won to 12. Terri Berry just missed out on making the score three all when she lost to 20 against Linda Dawson.