Author Archives: Glynn Hargraves

Bradford Retains Jim Kernan

Jim Kernan Winner 2019

Photo: Glynn Hargraves

South Ramsey hosted the Jim Kernan on Saturday, the first of the pre-festival opens with a good entry of 50, which included nine visiting bowlers.

Losing out at the quarter final stage were Steve Parker (Onchan), who lost out 14-21 to regular Island visitor Andy Mailer. Marown man Neil Withers just lost out 20-21 to home greener Stefan Kelly with Withers letting slip a 10-3 lead on Kelly, whilst Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly (Peel) lost out 18-21 to home greener David Bradford in another close game. Marown captain Paul Dunn having earlier defeated Manx Champion Colin Kelly, then disposed of South Ramsey captain Glynn Hargraves 21-8 with relative ease to book his place in the semi-finals.

In the semi-finals Bradford then returned the favour to see off Dunn with a 21-9 win, with Bradford scoring 11 consecutive points to build a big lead which Dunn could not recover from. In the other semi-final Andy Mailer’s hopes were ended by Stefan Kelly with Mailer losing out 18-21.

The final started with Bradford favourite to win, however Kelly had other ideas performing well to take a 8-4 lead, then keeping Bradford at arms length to retain a four point lead at 13-9. Bradford hit back to level the game at 14-14 and his greater experience helped him get over the line to claim a 21-17 win to retain the title and take home £150 prize money.

The presentation was made by South Ramsey chairman Steve Moore, who thanked those who had stayed to support, everyone who had helped with the running of the competition throughout the day. During his speech Bradford thanked the ladies for the brilliant refreshments provided, also commented on the improvement in the green since the start of the season, with credit being given to the team who have helped get the green into the condition it is now in.

Post published by Glynn Hargraves

June Festival Preview

Martin Gilpin

IOM June Festival Winner 2018

The eagerly awaited Isle of Man June Festival takes place the week commencing 17th June with a good entry of over 314 in the Men’s competition.

On the first page of the draw Andy Duckett (Crossgates) will be hoping to go far in the competition, he takes on the bookmaker Graham Hirst in the first round. Local man Geoff Collier (South Ramsey) who only took up the game last year has the unenviable task of taking on Ben Gloag (Grapes Hotel) for his first time competing in the festival, whilst 2017 winner James Wilcox (Crossgates) will be looking to go far with some tricky fixtures along the way.

On the second page Callum Wraight (Castlefields) will once again be one of the hot favourites to take the title and his first festival win, having won the majority of the games biggest prizes and ended his week last June on a high winning the PokerStars Invitation at South Ramsey. Should Matthew Quirk (Onchan) make it through his first game he could well face Wraight in the second round, whilst Gareth Herbert (George BC) has a tough game against Joshua Mordue (Crossgates). Ian Hazlehurst has once again been handed a tough first round game taking on the ‘Hoover’ Jack Dyson (Thongsbridge).

On page three another regular visitor Mark Hughes (Crossgates) will be hoping to break his duck in the main event with several of his team mates having taken the trophy over the past few years, whilst 1998 winner David Jackson (Knutsford) will be keen to take his second June title. Current holder Martin Gilpin (Kendal Vic) starts three points back due to his 2018 win and will need to make a good start in his games to ensure he doesn’t fall too far behind. Mel Byron (Duki Central) takes on local man Steve Parker (North Ramsey).

On the next page Gaz Lally (Crossgates) takes on Craig Shore (Burbage) in the first round, with local player David Bradford keen to reach the latter stages of the June festival having won the September title at the tender age of 17, however should he get through his first round game Bradford could have to face the likes of Barry Booth (Kendal Vic) and Ryan Clark (Thongsbridge) if he is to progress.

On page five Nick White (Thongsbridge) will fancy his chances of getting through the top half of his page, whilst Kevan Shaw (West Houghton) will be favourite to make the latter stages in the bottom half of the page, however Phil Kerruish (Onchan) may well be one of his opponents who will be confident of performing well against Shaw.

Looking at page six Chris Kelly (Thongsbridge) will once again be looking to reach the latter stages of the festival, will have to beat the likes of Nidge Hughes (Wirral) & Billy Speed (Castlefields) to make it to finals day on Friday.

Over to page seven September 2018 festival winner John Kennish (South Ramsey) is another man to start three points back on his opponents due to his recent success in the festival, will be hoping to find some form to take him through the week. A man in form is Paul Dunn (Marown) who is unbeaten in the league this season, having switched bowls over the winter Dunn will be hoping this is his year. A game everyone will want to watch is two of the games top players with both having won a number of the top competitions, John Bailey (Castlefields) could take on Chris Mordue (Pudsey) on Wednesday morning.

On page eight regular visitor to the Island Kevin Nicholas (Gresford Colliery) won’t be missed on the green with his yellow bowls. Another local in form is Jordan Cain (Onchan), who could face one of the games entertainers Michael Leach (Kirkham) who is fascinating to watch on the green, whilst 2012 winner Rob Fitzpatrick (Wirral) could face Andy Mailer (Thongsbridge) or Ian Nicholson (Kendal Vic) with Nicholson somewhat unbelievably having never won a June Festival with all his festival wins coming in September. Dan Jones (Castlefields) will be keen on making good progress having not visited the Island for a couple of years.

On page 9 it has been 19 years since local man Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly (Peel) took his only festival win beating Kev Shaw back in the ‘good old days’ when the finals used to be held on the Villa, whilst Craig Gant (Thongsbridge) could have a tasty second round game against Richie Goddard (Castlefields).

On the final page 2013 winner Neil Withers be looking to progress having recently lost in the final of the Big Smash, whilst Andrew Sorsby (Thongsbridge) could face off against Matthew Kelly-Walley (Stretton Anglesey) in the second round. 2016 June winner and recent Big Smash winner Kez Smith (Crossgates) could face big hitter Paul Bailey (Meersbrook), whilst another big hitter Chris Barton (Wirral) will be hoping for a good week.

Whilst I can’t guarantee the weather what should shine through, however, is the quality of the field and the week of bowls we have in store for us, with the Tourism, Men’s Doubles, Open Doubles, various flyers and consolation competitions there is plenty of bowls to be played & enjoyed for all.

Best of luck to all visitors and locals who are taking part throughout the week.

Post published by Glynn Hargraves

PokerStars Super 32

PokerStars Invitation Winner 2018 Callum Wraight

Friday evening sees some of the games top players taking part in the PokerStars Super 32 Invitation with the event being held at Noble’s Park it is sure to attract a good crowd on the night.

Last year’s winner Callum Wraight will be hoping to successfully defend his title, whilst Yorkshire man Chris Mordue won the British Senior Merit in 2018. There are too many winners of big competitions to call out, however the line-up includes Isle of Man festival, County Merit, British Senior Merit, Champion of Champions and Spring and Autumn Waterloo winners along with the winners of a host of big competitions held on the mainland to prove what a top field this is.

Six local men have been given the opportunity to compete this year with David Bradford (South Ramsey), Jordan Cain (Onchan), Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly (Peel) and three Marown men taking part with Manx Champion Colin Kelly, Neil Withers and Paul Dunn all looking to cause an upset to the big guns.

A number of big hitters are taking part with Chris Barton, Paul Bailey and Wraight all capable of fireworks on the green with their renowned striking ability.

Whilst I would not like to predict a winner of this, what I can promise is a night of great entertainment that will be a fitting end to a week of bowls which is running morning, noon and night!

Line-up:

  1. Billy Speed
  2. Kev Shaw
  3. Chris Barton
  4. Nidge Hughes
  5. Peter Jones
  6. Robby Fitzpatrick
  7. Dave Jackson
  8. Ian Nicholson
  9. Martin Gilpin
  10. Melvyn Byron
  11. Callum Wraight
  12. Jon Palmer
  13. Richie Goddard
  14. Andy Sorsby
  15. Nick White
  16. Paul Bailey
  17. Gareth Herbert
  18. Stewart Meddings
  19. Dan Jones
  20. John Bailey
  21. Chris Mordue
  22. Craig Gant
  23. Jack Dyson
  24. James Wilcox
  25. Joshua Mordue
  26. Colin Kelly
  27. Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly
  28. David Bradford
  29. Jordan Cain
  30. Neil Withers
  31. Paul Dunn
  32. TBC

Prize money is over £3k, paid out as follows:-

Winner – £1,000

Runner Up – £500

Semi-Finals – 2 @ £250

Quarter Finals – 4 @ £125

Last 16 – 8 @ £75

The final spot available will be confirmed during festival week, the draw will also be made and announced next week.

Post published by Glynn Hargraves

Peel Edge It Over Port St Mary

In Ellan Vannin Fuels division one Peel A made the journey south to take on Port St Mary A securing a good 4-6 away win on the night. Winning big for the visitors were the experienced Andy Kennish and Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly with both men winning to single figures over Tim Williams and Glenn Hargraves respectively. Tom Kelly recorded a good 21-10 win over Dave McCabe whilst the ‘Admiral’ David Proctor performed brilliantly and will have been buoyed to see off home ‘captain’ Trevor Quayle 21-16. For the home team Juan Hargraves proved he has lost none of his natural ability dusting off his bowls for only the third time all season to defeat Stevie Kelly 21-19. Rob Cooil beat Peter Greenlees 21-11, with Wayne Roberts & Paul Russell seeing off Tommy McMeiken & Jerome Surridge respectively with both Peel men having been in good form so far this season.

Castletown A also slipped to a 4-6 home loss against Marown B with the visitors taking the two points for the aggregate thanks to Juan Killip’s 21-5 victory over David Quayle. Also winning for the Crosby men were the three Kelly’s – Peter, John and Brian. The four winners for the town men were Ian Watson, Peter Oates, Nathan Hamilton and Jordan Drewett.

Douglas A hosted Noble’s A at the Villa with the home team edging the match 6-4 (120-116) in a low scoring affair. Three single figures wins from Merv Sayle, Ian Moore and Keith Rise were the difference to the visitors two single figure wins from Glenn Boland & Tommy Collister.

Marown A edged another point away from the chasing pack with a good 9-1 home win over Castletown B who had star man Bob Clark missing. The sole winner for the visitors was Alan Phair who beat Darren Kerruish 21-8. For the home team Paul Dunn, Paul Kelly & Dean Kipling all recorded single figure wins.

Third placed Onchan A made the journey north to Mooragh Park to take on North Ramsey A with the visitors recording a 3-7 away win on the night. Home captain Allan Callow recorded a good 21-15 win over Kevin Quirk, Gary Merrill beat Frank Watson 21-17 whilst John Cannan beat the in form Jordan Cain 21-20. Winners for the away team were Peter Slinger, Rob Monk and Phil Kerruish, with Steve Parker and Matthew Quirk both winning to single figures.

South Ramsey A took on their B team, with the higher ranked team winning 8-2 to remain in second place. For the B team Austin Hart recorded a fine 21-17 win over the experienced Peter Collister, whilst Steven Waters performed well to beat Alan Moore 21-18. The winners for the A team were comfortable with Dave ‘Dido’ Kelly winning 21-2 over George Brew.

In division two top of the table Ballaugh A took on their B team who occupy bottom place in the table. The A team were in no mood to help out their club mates crushing them 10-0 on the night.

Second placed Onchan B kept up their quest for promotion following their 9-1 home win over North Ramsey B, whilst fourth placed Peel B went level on points with third placed Port St Mary B. The Peel men defeating the Port outfit 8-2 on the night. The two winners for Port St Mary were Tom Collins and Thomas Keggen.

Marown C recorded their first away league win of the season, winning 4-6 away to Peel C. Port Erin A could only draw 5-5 at home to Port St Mary C, they did win five games however their cause was not helped by having to give two walkovers to the opposition. This was disappointing as their lower ranked B team had put out a full team the night before.

Just four matches took place in division three with Finch Hill B recording a strong 9-1 win over Peel D. Junior player Ryan Tate prevented the whitewash with his 21-18 win over Guy Smith.

Douglas C drew 5-5 with visitors Onchan C. The Villa men had only three winners, however they won the two points for the aggregate on the night. It could well have been a 8-2 victory for the home side with James Teare and John Ferguson just losing out 20-21 to Denis Maxwell and Ken Clarke respectively, whilst Greg Brew lost 19-21 to Allan Kennaugh.

Noble’s B hosted their C team with the B team winning 7-3, winning for the lower ranked C team were Noel Ash, Jeff Crellin and Michael Cooper.

Castletown C won a tough home fixture 6-4 against Port Erin B with big single figure wins from John Matheson, Juan Drinkwater and Philip Smith enough to help secure the aggregate.

Post published by Glynn Hargraves

Shannon Crowned Junior Manx Champion

Junior Manx Champion 2019 - Shannon McMullan

14 year old Shannon McMullan realised an ambition watched on by her proud parents and younger sisters by winning the Ellan Vannin Fuels Junior Manx Championship for the first time.

A product of the Manx Youth Games which was in only its second year in 2014, Shannon first took up the game at the tender age of nine. Today was also a proud day for her team mates, some of who were her MYG coaches. Shannon is now a regular fixture in the Ladies night league team at Mooragh Park, who are finally starting to reap the rewards of the hours of effort they have put in to coaching their junior players. Shannon has put a great amount of time and effort into her bowls and her improvement over the past year is clear for everyone to see.

Shannon certainly did it the hard way seeing off the up and coming Patrick Grant (Ballaugh) in her first round game recovering from a 17-19 deficit to pick up four singles to take a 21-19 win.

In the quarter finals Shannon was up against 2017 winner Marown B team captain Harry Barton with this year’s competition being the last time Barton was eligible to enter. Shannon took a 14-3 lead before Barton started to chip away at the lead, however the deficit proved too big with Shannon winning 21-14.

In the semi-finals home greener Austin Hart was up against Victoria Johnson (Mooragh Park) with Hart performing well to book his spot in the final with a 21-8 win. In the second semi-final Shannon was up against the current champion Glenn Boland (Noble’s) with Shannon starting well taking the lead 11-4. Boland hit back to edge ahead 12-11, with Shannon once again going on a good run to go 18-15 ahead then 20-17 only for Boland to score two to lie just one point behind with the score at 20-19 to Shannon. Boland played along the edge of the green putting up a lead six inches away from the jack, with Shannon’s first bowl just 18 inches away Boland couldn’t quite get a second counting bowl in. With her last bowl Shannon played a great bowl under pressure to trail the jack to take a fantastic 21-19 victory to reach the final.

In the final Shannon started strongly taking a 7-2 lead over 16 year old Austin, then extended the lead further still to 16-8. Shannon kept her composure well and her level of concentration was beyond her years, which helped to see the game out with a 21-12 win to take the title in what was a stunning performance.

The presentation was made by Association press officer Glynn Hargraves who thanked all the juniors for taking part, Association Secretary Alan Moore for running the competition, South Ramsey for providing the refreshments and putting on a BBQ with meat provided by Ballakelly Farm. It was also commented on that it was great to see the winner was someone who prior to 2014 had no family link to crown green bowls, which really demonstrated the great work done by those involved when crown green bowls became part of the Manx Youth Games for the first time in 2013.

Both Shannon and Austin will go on to represent the IOM at Netherfield BC, Kendal, Cumbria on Saturday 17th August.

Post published by Glynn Hargraves

Top Teams Clash – Marown Extend Lead

It was another good week for Marown A in Ellan Vannin Fuels division one with the Crosby men making the short journey to take on Onchan A at the Park. The visitors put in a good performance to take a 3-7 away win, will perhaps have been a little disappointed to not come away with a 9-1 win. The match was closer than the result suggested with only 13 chalks separating the two teams (143-156)

Manx Champion Colin Kelly continued his good form to see off Rob Monk 21-13, whilst Paul Kelly won 21-17 against Jordan Cain with Cain recovering from a 12-18 deficit before Kelly got over the line. Marown captain Paul Dunn recovered from a slow start falling behind 1-6 before going on a good run to lead 13-6 against Kevin Quirk. Quirk got back to just one behind at 15-16, only for Dunn to run out with a 21-15 win. Frank Watson was the only winner for the home team in the first half to get home 21-20 against Dean Kipling. Watson recovered from a 2-10 deficit to go 17-15 ahead, then fell behind again at 19-20 to then pick up two vital points on the last two ends.

With the Onchan men trailing the match at the half way point things looked bleak with captain Peter Slinger missing, Mark Kelly stepped in on the night and performed brilliantly to see off Neil Withers with a 21-17 win, which was secured by leading a front toucher on the jack from corner to corner on the last end to record a memorable win. Also winning for the home team was Phil Kerruish fresh from his weekend exertions to see his beloved Manchester City lift the F.A. Cup, seeing off Matthew Keggen 21-14. Phil Kelly would have been pleased to win 21-16 against Matthew Quirk, with Quirk only winning nine ends throughout the game, but seven of those ends picking up a double. John Gelling got over the line 21-19 against Steve Parker, with Parker fighting back from 13-20 behind to 19-20 only for Gelling to get the all-important single for game.

This result sees the Marown men sit four points clear after eight games, having now faced the top four away from home, this puts them in a superb position.

Second placed South Ramsey A headed to the Sunset city to take on Peel A for what looked to be a fascinating encounter. The teams shared the spoils on the night with a 5-5 result, with Peel winning 5-3 on games, however South Ramsey took the aggregate by just six chalks (138-144).

For the visitors Dave ‘Dido’ Kelly put in arguably the best performance of anyone on the night with his 21-7 win over Gary Smith. Hitting back for Peel were Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly who beat James Teare 21-17, with Teare battling well against an experienced opponent after falling 9-14 behind. Tommy McMeiken led 9-1 to win 21-15 against Chas Grills, whilst Stevie Kelly led 14-4 against Stefan Kelly only for Stefan to pick up three successive doubles to drag himself back into the game at 10-14. Stevie pulled away once again to go 19-13 ahead, with Stefan hitting back once again to be just three points behind at 16-19 and with a good lead up Stevie was slightly fortunate to knock Stefan’s bowl out with his first bowl. Stevie got over the line 21-16.

At the halfway stage Peel led 3-1 on games and only had a one chalk advantage on the aggregate. South Ramsey would have fancied their chances to turn the match around. Alan Moore started the comeback seeing off David Proctor 21-10, whilst visiting captain Glynn Hargraves had to work hard for his 21-16 win against Tom Kelly with neither player able to build a lead over the other. The comeback was stopped in its tracks with Jerome Surridge defeating Peter Collister 21-13. The last match left on the green between David Bradford and Andy Kennish had all eyes on them with Bradford recovering from a 3-10 deficit to build a 20-15 lead and was lying game only for Kennish to play a good last bowl to get in. Kennish dug deep using all his experience to fight back and sneak over the line with a vital 21-20 win to ensure the match ended in a draw.

In the remaining matches North Ramsey A defeated local rivals South Ramsey B 8-2, with Douglas A & Port St Mary A matching that result with away wins over Castletown B & Marown B respectively, whilst Castletown A won 3-7 away to Noble’s A.

North Ramsey A hosted local rivals South Ramsey B at Mooragh Park with the home team winning 8-2. Winning to single figures for the home team were Geoff Porter and Tony Smart beating George Brew and Ian Moore respectively. The two winners for the visitors were Steven Waters who beat Steven Walmsley 21-17, whilst the ever reliable Tony Dugdale made it seven wins from eight games with his 21-15 win over Bryan Corner.

Marown B had a tough night at home to Port St Mary A with the Crosby men losing 2-8 with four games just losing out. Father and son Peter and John Kelly lost out 18-21 and 19-21 to Wayne Roberts and Bernard Thackrah respectively, whilst Juan Killip lost 20-21 to Dan McCabe with Harry Barton also suffering the same fate losing out to Trevor Quayle. The two winners for Marown were another father and son duo with Brian Kelly winning 21-14 against Rob Cooil, with son James winning 21-18 against Tim Williams.

Castletown B welcomed Douglas A to the Crofts with the visitors taking the spoils with an 2-8 away win. Winning for the home team were Ron Williams winning 21-4 over Gary Conwell, whilst Bob Clark continued his strong return to night league bowls with a hard fought 21-17 win over Merv Sayle. For the visitors Stuart Garrett made it seven wins from eight with his 21-11 win over Mark Saunders, whilst Shaun Seal just got over the line with a 21-20 victory over Nathan Cooil.

Noble’s A would have been hoping for a home win over Castletown A, however the town men came away with a 3-7 away win. Winning for the visitors were Juan Kermode, Aaron Richardson and Ian Watson with Nathan Hamilton and Sam Clague digging deep to both win 21-19 over Steve Cook and Steve Hall respectively. The three home team winners were Reginald Temporaza, Glenn Boland and Tommy Collister.

In division two Ballaugh A hit a bump in the road in their quest for promotion with a 3-7 home loss to Peel Sunset B, which could have been worse had Michael Kavanagh not lost 20-21 to Barry McDonald.

The result allowed Port St Mary B the opportunity to close the gap to eight points, thanks to a good 9-1 home win over Peel C with Jimmy Corlett just saving the whitewash with his 21-20 victory over Thomas Keggen.

Marown C pulled off a great 7-3 home win over Finch Hill A and look to have no worries over staying at this level having been promoted from division three last season. With another couple of years experience under their belt l can see the Crosby men pushing for promotion to the first division which would be a remarkable feat with having so many players who are all new to the game coming through together.

Port Erin A were the only away winners in division two with a 3-7 away win over Douglas A at the Villa. North Ramsey B hosted Ballaugh B at Mooragh Park with the home team winning 7-3, whilst Port St Mary C probably shocked themselves with their 7-3 win over a strong Onchan B team. William Cain picked up his first league win in only his sixth ever game with a 21-18 victory over Peter Wallis, whilst his father Derek Cain who himself only started league bowls last year wasn’t to be out done winning 21-11 over Bernard Galka.

In division three league leaders South Ramsey C took their turn to sit out a round of fixtures giving the teams below them the chance to close the gap.

Second place Ballaugh C could only struggle to a 5-5 home draw with Castletown C with the home team winning only three games, but picking up the two points for the aggregate (132-123) thanks to their three winners all recording single figure wins.

Peel D were the only home winners in division three winning 6-4 at home against Douglas C with junior Ryan Tate winning 21-12 over Michael Knowles.

Onchan C went home happy with their 3-7 away win over South Ramsey D, whilst Noble’s B visit to Breagle Glen resulted in a 3-7 win over Port Erin B. Finch Hill B gained the most on the teams around them with their 2-8 away win over Noble’s C.


Post published by Glynn Hargraves

Capital International Cup Win For Moore & Hargraves

Capital International Cup Winners 2019 - Glynn Hargraves & Elaine Moore

Photo: Kim Hargraves

Port Erin was the venue on Sunday for the Capital International Cup with 32 pairs entering the competition at Breagle Glen.

The winners after a close final in an all South Ramsey affair were the pairing of Elaine Moore & Glynn Hargraves who defeated Jenny Moore & James Teare 21-18. The latter pair started the strongest taking a 10-6 lead before Moore & Hargraves turned the game round to take a 17-11 lead, then went to 19-15. Moore & Teare picked up a two and a single on the next two ends to bring the score back to 18-19. Moore & Hargraves played two good bowls on the last end to take the win.

Losing out at the semi-final stage to the winners were another South Ramsey pairing, Fiona Kennish & Steven Waters who clawed back from trailing 11-19 to eventually lose 16-21. Also losing out at the semi-final stage to Moore & Teare were the Noble’s/Marown partnership of Alison Keggen & Neil Withers (21-12).

The presentation was made by Janet Shilling who ran the competition, thanked the sponsors Capital International for their continued support and the club members for their assistance throughout the day.

Post published by Glynn Hargraves

All Change At The Top

Douglas A who took Four Points off Onchan A

Photo: Phil Cain

There was movement at the top of Ellan Vannin Fuels division one this week with Marown A reclaiming top spot, South Ramsey A climbed one place to second whilst Onchan A fell from first to third place.

Marown A hosted South Ramsey B at Crosby, with the home team winning 9-1. Home team captain Paul Dunn, newly crowned Manx Champion Colin Kelly and Matthew Keggen all won to single figures whilst both sides had a 21-20 winner and loser. Dean Kipling just got home against George Brew, whilst for the visitors Tony Dugdale prevented the whitewash with his 21-20 win over Paul Kelly.

To return the compliment South Ramsey A hosted Marown B on an improved green, with the home team enjoying a 10-0 win and the visitors just failing to score 100 chalks (168-99). Chas Grills was pleased to take the kitty home with his 21-5 win, whilst Alan Moore won 21-8. Two of the visitors came closing to taking points off the Ramsey men with Peter Kelly and Luke Hyland both losing out 18-21 to Peter Collister and James Teare respectively.

Onchan A lost ground on their rivals following a tough away fixture against Douglas A with the visitors winning 4-6. There were first league defeats of the season for Matthew Quirk and Rob Monk, whilst Kevin Quirk and Frank Watson also suffered at the hands of the Villa men. Steve Parker recorded the biggest win of the night against William Crowley who was brought up from the B team, with this win making the difference towards the aggregate with the Onchan men winning by just six chalks (137-143). Also winning for the visitors were Peter Slinger & Jordan Cain, whilst Phil Kerruish just crept home with a vital 21-20 win.

North Ramsey A pulled off the shock of the week with a 6-4 home win over Peel A in another close game, taking the two points for aggregate by just six chalks (141-135). Winning for the home team were John Cannan, Allan Callow, Geoff Porter and Bryan Corner. For the visitors Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly got over the line 21-19 against Gary Merrill, Andy Kennish and Tommy McMeiken carried on their good form, whilst Stevie Kelly won 21-9 against Steve Walmsley.

Castletown B didn’t have their cause helped for their home fixture against Noble’s A with the town men having to sacrifice two players to their A team resulting in a 3-7 home loss (133-140). With Bob Clark having to step up into the A team and in good form this could have been a different result for the home team. Home winners were the experienced trio of Dave Faragher, Juan Kermode and George Foy with all three being part of the team that won back to back league titles for Castletown in 1995 and 1996. Winners for Noble’s were Glenn Boland, Steve Hall, Kevin Firth, Tommy Collister and David Pease with Pease winning 21-3 on the night.

Port St Mary A hosted Castletown A with the home team recording a 7-3 win to help pull away from the teams in the bottom half of the table. Dan McCabe led the way for the Port men with a 21-8 win over George Peach, with fairly comfortable wins from Trevor Quayle, Tim Williams and Dave McCabe. Wayne Roberts had to work hard for his 21-20 win over Derek Lewney. Winning for the visitors were captain Ian Watson, Peter Oates and Bob Clark.

In division two Ballaugh A sit eight points ahead of their rivals despite only winning 6-4 away to Peel C. Finch Hill A in second place had a hard fought 7-3 home win over Port St Mary B with both sides winning and losing two games 21-20 each. Onchan B had the biggest win in the division with their 8-2 home win over Port Erin A, whilst Marown C were delighted with their 7-3 home win over Douglas C.

Ballaugh B had a tough home game against Port St Mary C, however the home team won 6-4 taking the aggregate by seven chalks (141-134), whilst Peel B took a good 3-7 away win against North Ramsey B to show their A Team how it is done.

In division three South Ramsey C extended their lead to a huge 20 points without sending a bowl due to Castletown C being in the unfortunate position of being unable to field a team led to a 10-0 win being awarded to the home team. Second placed Ballaugh C lost more ground on the Ramsey men after suffering a 3-7 away defeat to Noble’s B. Port Erin B somehow managed to win 6-4 at Breagle Glen against Noble’s C despite being two players short thanks to their four winners all winning to 21-4 or less to pull off a great result.

Peel D hosted South Ramsey D with the home team recording a 7-3 home win over the visitors with the leagues two youngest players facing off against each other with Ryan Tate playing Ryan Hargraves, with the latter celebrating his 11th birthday. It was a happy birthday indeed with Hargraves picking up his first league win of the season.

Full reports for division two and three to follow…

Post published by Glynn Hargraves

Colin Kelly Wins Title Number 6

Manx Champion 2019 - Colin Kelly

Photo: Arnie Withers

There was a strong entry of 67 in this years Canada Life International sponsored Manx Championship held at Douglas Bowling Club on ‘the Villa’ on Saturday with the green being in superb condition for the Associations premier event with the first day seeing the competition being played down to the last 16.

In the last 16 Darren Kerruish took on Marown club mate Paul Kelly to get the action underway on Sunday in front of a good turnout for finals day with Kelly taking a 19-13 lead. Kerruish dug in to get the score level at 19-19 and was lying game only for Kelly to play a great bowl to save game and then finish the game off on the next end.

Jordan Cain (Onchan) was the underdog against the favourite South Ramsey’s David Bradford, however Cain put in a superb performance to end Bradford’s hope of a second title winning 21-12.

Neil Withers (Marown) took on Peel man Andy Kennish and managed to get over the line 21-17, whilst the Dave ‘Dido’ Kelly v Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly battle lived up to expectations with Dido leading 18-15, however Barney hit back to win 21-18 to book his spot in the quarter finals.

Alan Moore (South Ramsey) performed well to see off Phil Kerruish (Onchan) with a 21-15 victory, whilst Port St Mary’s Wayne Roberts made light work of Matthew Keggen (Marown) to win 21-13.

Another Port St Mary man Paul Skelly had his hopes ended for another year at the hands of John Kennish (South Ramsey) with the game being in the balance at the half way point, before Kennish pulled away to see the game out 21-14. Glynn Hargraves (South Ramsey) never got into the game against Marown’s Colin Kelly with Kelly easing to a 21-9 victory.

In the quarter finals Jordan Cain took on Paul Kelly, with Cain taking the win 21-15, whilst Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly made light work of Neil Withers to win 21-5 in the corners.

In the bottom half of the draw Alan Moore was firmly in control of his game at 16-10 up, however Wayne Roberts then scored 11 consecutive points to run out with a 21-16 win to reach his first semi-final. In the last match of the quarter finals 11 time winner John Kennish took on five time champion Colin Kelly, this was another game that looked like it would go right to the wire with the score tied at 9-9 after 13 ends, Kelly then took control to go 16-10 ahead and then 19-13 before seeing the game out winning 21-14.

In the semi-finals Colin Kelly wasted no time in reaching the final ending the fantastic run of Wayne Roberts with a 21-5 win, whilst Jordan Cain and Barney Kelly were tied 13-13 after 19 ends. From there Cain only allowed Kelly to score just two more points allowing Cain to go through to his first Manx Championship final with a 21-15 win.

The final was eagerly anticipated with both players predictably playing their preferred length early on. With the score tied at 5-5 after nine ends Kelly then went on a good run to take a 14-6 lead. When Cain did get in he did try something different to try to reduce the deficit, however Kelly immediately responded to this with a quick fire two to fully punish Cain. Kelly sealed his sixth Manx Championship title with a single on the last end to take a 21-11 win.

Kelly’s win was fully deserved beating two former champions on the day, playing well throughout as did Cain who had to beat Ian Moore, Kevin Quirk, David Bradford, Paul Kelly and Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly to reach his first final.

The presentation was made by Association Chairman Neil Withers and President John Keenan. Thanks must go to the competition secretary Matthew Keggen and his team for running the competition, Douglas Bowling Club for the condition of the green, the excellent catering and to the club members who were on hand to help throughout the weekend.

Post published by Glynn Hargraves

Manx Championship – Day 1

Action from Day One at the Villa - Ryan Hargraves proud of his touching bowl!

Photos: Neil Withers/Darren Kerruish

Douglas Bowling Club hosted the first day of the eagerly awaited Canada Life International Manx Championship with the first round seeing some interesting draws take place. 

Paul Kelly won all three games convincingly to book his place in finals day, with his last game resulting in a 21-8 win over Peter Collister, whilst Marown C player Darren Kerruish came through two games to book his spot.

Two time winner Kevin Quirk disposed of 2015 runner up Trevor Quayle with relative ease to win 21–10, before facing team mate Jordan Cain in the next round with Cain taking a 16-5 lead, before Quirk worked his way back into the game eventually losing out 17-21.

Paul Dunn and David Bradford both came through their first games with single figures wins to then play each other in the next round in a game which was fascinating to watch for the spectators. Bradford recovered from 11-15 behind to creep over the line 21-19 with both players undoubtedly respecting the ability of their opponent.

Three time winner Andy Kennish beat 1994 winner Phil Kelly in his first game, before facing home greener Mervin Sayle in the next round, with Sayle losing out 18-21 for Kennish to take his spot in the last 16. 

2009 winner Neil Withers will be hoping to be in better form on Sunday, following a hard fought 21-20 win over Frank Watson & a 21-14 victory over Edward Carlyle.

David ‘Dido’ Kelly had to work hard to beat Marown’s Brian Kelly 21-17, then won his next game 21-10 against Peel’s Tom Kelly to go through to Sunday.

Things were a lot more straightforward for Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly with his dream still alive for a first Championship win, whilst 1986 winner Phil Kerruish also made it through.

South Ramsey’s Alan Moore got through his second game against Peter Slinger 21-19, with Slinger having disposed of the in form Tommy McMeiken in the first round.

Matthew Keggen & Wayne Roberts came through their two games, with Roberts playing the corners well to beat Steve Parker at his own game 21-6.

Paul Skelly made it through two games which looked to be tough, however he brushed aside Rob Monk 21-9, then took Stevie Kelly apart 21-4 to fire out an ominous warning to his opponents.

Eleven time winner and current champion John Kennish had 9 chalks scored against him in his two games, whilst Glynn Hargraves beat Nathan Hamilton 21-14 before seeing off Dean Kipling 21-7.

Colin Kelly came through his first game with no trouble, then faced home greener Shaun Seal who himself had come through a tough first round game to beat the youngest player in the competition, 10 year old Ryan Hargraves who had recovered from a big deficit to then take a good lead before losing out 17-21. Young Hargraves is certainly one to watch out for in the future. Seal played well against Kelly before losing out 17-21.

Last 16 Line Up

Paul Kelly vs Darren Kerruish

Jordan Cain vs David Bradford

Andy Kennish vs Neil Withers

David ‘Dido’ Kelly vs Dave ‘Barney’ Kelly

Phil Kerruish vs Alan Moore

Matthew Keggen vs Wayne Roberts

Paul Skelly vs John Kennish

Glynn Hargraves vs Colin Kelly

Sunday sees some interesting ties with Paul Kelly taking on club mate and C Team player Darren Kerruish.

Cain & Bradford is likely to be a good watch, whilst former home greener Andy Kennish takes on Neil Withers. 

There may be chants of ‘there’s only one David Kelly’ after Dido takes on Barney to decide who goes through to the quarters.

In the bottom half of the draw Phil Kerruish will look to use all his experience to progress against Alan Moore, who can play as well as anyone on his day.

Matthew Keggen against Wayne Roberts could be a close affair, whilst all eyes will be on Paul Skelly and John Kennish, with Skelly having beaten Kennish in years gone by in the Manx Championship he will be looking for a repeat performance this year.

Glynn Hargraves takes on Colin Kelly, with Hargraves ending the challenge of Kelly at this same stage in 2015, Kelly will be hoping to take the trophy home for the first time since 2011.

At the last 16 stage we have seven previous winners still in the competition with 24 wins between them, could this be the year a new name is engraved on the famous trophy?

Post published by Glynn Hargraves