LBIOM

LBIOM made the most of the The ‘SuperManx’ bank holiday weekend, hosting the annual mixed pairs championships over two days, making a specical of the competition. Saturday afternoon saw the ‘last 16’ and quarterfinal rounds be played. A nervy day for some playing in a format that they are not accustomed to, playing the World Bowls format of only using three bowls, and getting use to a new partnership. But those involved made is tough for those who progressed, ensuring that they had to be prepared to bring their best for the following day.

On Sunday, the semi finals matches produced some scintillating bowls and edge of the seat excitement for the members who turned out in support. Firstly Bernice and Michael McGreal playing against defending champions Pam Makin and Clive McGreal were tied at 13 all with just the final end to play. With Bernice holding 3 perfect bowls on a full length Jack it was a tough job for Clive to much more than to drive the end dead. With a couple of very close efforts he failed with his last attempt to send Michael and Bernice into the final.

In the other semi final it was newcomer Libby Andrade and Veteran Phil Smith against Marcia Pearson and Kevin Quirk. With some great bowling from both pairs this match was tight from start to finish to the extent that after the completion of the scheduled 14 ends the scores were level at 10 all. There followed the tie break end with 2 tremendous bowls from Kevin Quirk just inches each side of the jack when Phil Smith delivered his final magic bowl which somehow turned out the shot bowl and came to rest alongside the other bowl. After a nerve racking measure by umpire John Kewley it was the bowl belonging to Phil Smith which was declared shot to earn him and Libby a place in the final.

The final produced a particularly fine display by Michael McGreal despite his lack of match practice this season and following some heavy scoring early on in the final Phil and Libby found themselves chasing the game to the extent that the score line was 18-9 in favour of Bernice and Michael with still an end to play and they ran out worthy winners on the day to claim the National Mixed Pairs title.