B.O.T.S – The new season begins
For the 4th consecutive year, the short mat season kicked off in fine style in the Galtres Centre in Easingwold with the so called “Battle of the Sexes”. A slightly reduced turnout saw a team of 50 Ladies playing against a team of 50 Gents. The players came from all counties in the North, including Lincolnshire, although Stockport and Staffordshire were unable to take part. Everyone had 4 triples games playing in alternate sessions of 10 ends or 45 minutes (whichever came sooner). There was also an optional target competition with those taking part (bowling 4 woods).
Although the results are somewhat immaterial, for the record the gallant Ladies team were unable to get the better of the Gents who dominated the match with a 120 – 24 result. In the target competition, the Gents again had the upper hand overall although Val Smith for the Ladies was the top individual with 18 points.
A fundraising raffle for small monetary prizes raised £187 to which the NYSMBA added £213 enabling a donation of £400 to be sent to the YAA (Yorkshire Air Ambulance).
The day was once again organized and run jointly by North Yorkshire’s Safeguarding Officer, Jill Newsome, and Chairman Joseph Newsome.
This was the first of the 9 competition days planned for this coming season. Next up is the Team “warmup day” on October 5th when the 3 County team captains will get their squad of hopefuls together for much needed practice and team bonding. Each team will then have 10 matches to play starting on October 19th.
Our Competition Secretary, Robert Mumford, will also be organizing and running all the 7 County Championships starting with the Fours on November 22nd. These will once again double up as qualifiers for the ESMBA Nationals.
With the 6 leagues across the county also commencing play in the next few weeks, it will once again be a busy Short Mat year ahead.
Heads down; Take your time; Every shot counts!
