Thame Bowls Club - Match Reports

Weekly Match Report - 29th April 2024

Thame Bowls Club Weekly News Report No 2

Wednesday 24^th April was cold, overcast, and any sun that showed itself was nowhere enough to warm. Captain Tony and the teams from Princes Risborough, greeted us and made us welcome. Unfortunately, we lost again, but the shot difference this time, was slightly better, 99 against 64 for. We did have a winning rink again, so congratulations to skip John Holmes, no.2 Heather Hallchurch and lead Chris Roberts. Well done, and I hope it's just the weather that's keeping the rest of us from crossing the line ahead.

On an overcast late Spring afternoon, Saturday 27^th April, Thame entertained Maidenhead Thicket. Because of the weather the match, of 6 triples, was limited to 15 ends after which a cup of steaming hot tea (and some alcoholic refreshments) was very welcome. The game, captained by Chairman, Bill Giles, ended in a win for Thame by 98 shots to 60 with 4 winning rinks, a draw and one loss. The highest winning rink, by 25 shots to 9, was John Wilkinson, John Holmes and skip David White who was playing his first friendly match for the club.

Unfortunately, Waddesdon have been unable to get enough numbers for the match scheduled for Tuesday 30^th April so have had to cancel.

29.4.2024

: Last Updated: 30 April 2024; Hits: 8

Weekly Match Report - 23rd April 2024

Thame Bowls Club Weekly News Report No 1

Thame Bowls Club opened its Centenary Year’s season of matches on Thursday 18th April, following a most encouraging number of members, the week before, assembled to prepare the Green and surrounds.

The first match was eagerly awaited and new Midweek Captain, Colin French had no shortage of volunteers to play. It was a shame that the first game was scheduled to be away at Chessvale on their all-weather green with the usual cold wind blowing down the valley. However, the welcome was as warm as ever and although the overall score finished 108 to 63 in favour of the home side, Colin (ably supported by Pauline Holmes and Chris Shannon) had a winning start to the campaign on his rink. He offered his thanks to all who played and apologised to Jenny Reed who, although left behind at the Clubhouse, still made the venue on time.

‘We will be back on grass for our next few matches, so no excuses’.

On Sunday 21^st April, there was a good win for our first home match of the season against a very strong Marlow side, winning 4 of the six rinks. The final score 99 to Thame 84 to Marlow. The weather turned very cold towards the end of the match, but a few hardy souls still showed off our new centenary club shirts while the rest of us were cocooned in anoraks. Our top rink with a great score of 21-3 was Adrian Wilcox, Norman Hyde, and Jan Sargeant. A great start to the new season. Sunday Captain Roger Blackburn said, ‘thanks to all that turned out to play and to the spectators who braved the cold, much appreciated’.

23.4.2024

: Last Updated: 24 April 2024; Hits: 167

Weekly Match Report - 18th September 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 21.

On Tuesday 12 September, Thame captained by Gordon Taylor, had good news! They won the game against Bassetsbury Manor by 60 shots to 55; they won 2 rinks, lost on 2 rinks with one drawn. The best winning rink was Alfred Jochum, Keith Brooks, and Geoff Roynon.

On a pleasantly warm afternoon on Saturday 16 September, Thame hosted a friendly match, captained by Bill Giles, against Cheddington Bowls Club. Four triples played out a very close game with both sides winning on 2 rinks. However, Cheddington ran out winners by 70 shots to 65. Thame's top rink was John Wilkinson, Mike Hants and skip Sharon Heafey by 28 shots to 9.

The day started well on 17 September, as Thame arrived at Hazells for the last Sunday away game of the season, but the heavens soon opened and the rain poured down, delaying the start by 40 minutes. The game was subsequently shortened to 15 ends. The going was hard on a very wet green and bowls of water were supplied at the end of the rinks to wash and clean the woods after every end. At 10 ends Thame was leading by 49 shots to 39 but it all went downhill after that and Hazells turned out winners after 15 ends by 78 shots to 64. Top rink for Thame was Mike Zakaszewski, Pauline Holmes and skip Jill Brooks by 19 shots to 11.

Captain Bill Giles said ‘I would like to thank all the members who put their names down to play on Sundays making it much easier for us to fulfil all our fixtures’.

18.9.2023

: Last Updated: 18 September 2023; Hits: 339

Weekly Match Report - 13th September 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 20.

The last ladies match of the season on Tuesday 5th September was the first-time playing Amersham Ladies. We managed to complete 18 ends in spite of the very hot weather and a few wilting players.
A very close match but a win for Thame ladies of 51 - 44. We had a draw on one rink and a win on two. Top rink was Diane Mackriell, Ann Ashfield and skip Caroline Walker with a score of 17 - 12. Captain Jill Brooks said, ‘Well done ladies and thank you all for your support and help through the season’.

The weekend of 9^th and 10^th September was for Competition Finals, and these are covered separately.

13.9.2023

: Last Updated: 13 September 2023; Hits: 214

Weekly Match Report - 4th September 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 19.

The mixed friendly on Tuesday 29 August at home between Thame and Aston Clinton was a very close game and ended Thame 58 Aston Clinton 59. Although it finished two rinks each Thame’s best rink featured Pauline Holmes, Keith Brooks and skip, Barbara Waters with Gordon Taylor as Captain.

The match between the ladies and High Wycombe due on the 30th of August was cancelled by Wycombe because they could not get a team. Instead, it was decided to play a roll up of triples and a pairs for the ladies of Thame that were due to play in the match. Afterwards we had a get together with tea and cakes.

Ladies v Gents - Sponsors Evening - 1st September.

The very competitive annual event of Ladies v Gents took place on Friday 1st September on a warm and dry evening. The match consisted of 24 ladies, captained by Jill Brooks and 24 men, captained by John Rawson with 6 teams of rinks playing 10 ends. In previous years the men have beaten the ladies on several occasions. This year the match was a resounding success for the ladies, winning on 4 rinks and a draw on one, resulting in an overall score of 73 to 41. (Condolences to the gents). The top rink, with a score of 18 - 2, consisted of Philippa Feltham, Hilary Devaney, Pat Munday and skip Barbara Waters. Afterwards we all enjoyed a buffet and a drink or two!! Thank you to the organisers, players, spectators, and sponsors for making this a successful and enjoyable event.

The Gents captain John Rawson handing over the trophy to the Ladies captain Jill Brooks

The Potter Cup held on the 27 August has a separate report. Click here to view it.

4. 9. 2023

: Last Updated: 05 September 2023; Hits: 143

Weekly Match Report - 28th August 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 18

Long Crendon brought a strong team to Thame on Saturday 19 August and although Thame had two winning rinks three others lost quite heavily and the visitors ran out winners by 75 shots to 122. Top winning rink for Thame was Ray Lewin, Jesse Matthews and skip Mike Ralls; the Captain was Bill Giles.

On a beautiful sunny afternoon, Tuesday 22 August, the ladies played away at Aylesbury Town, a very friendly and enjoyable match was had by all, even though we lost on all 4 triples with a score of 41 - 79. The lowest losing rink was new member Pauline Holmes playing her first ladies match, Heather Hallchurch & Jill Brooks with a score of 12 - 14.

On Thursday 24 August, Thame played Chessvale at home and although it was a good game, Thame lost 67 to 74. The Captain was Gordon Taylor, and the highest winning rink was played by Gini Williams, Barbara Waters and skip, Roger Blackburn.

28.8.2023

: Last Updated: 28 August 2023; Hits: 143

Weekly Match Report - 15th August 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 17.

Thame Ladies had another match cancelled because of the rain against Watlington on 8^th August.

On Saturday the 12^th we played a very enjoyable 4 triples match in rather cool and cloudy conditions against Tring, retreating to the clubhouse early to avoid a heavy rainstorm that swept in to end proceedings rather abruptly. At close of play Thame were still 5 points ahead in the match, with Ray Lewin and Deirdre Page helping the Captain Chris Shannon, achieve the best rink on the day, with their table also mopping up all the raffle prizes (clearly Brooksie wasn’t playing!). Our thanks to everyone who took part and provided transport.

On Sunday 13^th, a cloudy but quite warm afternoon, Thame entertained our friends from South Oxford. The game was very close and competitive with the visitors running out winners by 91 shots to 78. Thame's highest winning rink by 24 shots to 15 was Sandra French, Norman Hyde and skip Caroline Walker. With 4 reserves our President, Les Canfield, hosted a pairs match with Byron Harvey, Ian Griffiths and Roger Mackriell on rink 1.

15.8.2023

: Last Updated: 16 August 2023; Hits: 148

Weekly Match Report - 7th August 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 16.

Despite the ‘summer’ rain Thame Ladies managed to play 11 ends on Wednesday 2^nd August at home against Wendover with a win on all 3 rinks and a score of 32 - 18. The top rink, with a great score of 14 - 4, was Maggie Gibbons, Gini Williams and skip Maire Duncan. Captain Jill Brooks said, ‘Well done ladies and thank you for your help’.

Thame’s men on the 3^{rd of} August had a great win against bottom of the table Blackbird Leys with a score of 97 – 39. They took 6 league points and waited with bated breath to learn the results of the other matches that evening. Woodstock who had been the League leaders for most of the season had a nervous last game against Chipping Norton with both teams finishing on 65 shots. Chippy won three rinks so took 4 points to Woodstock’s 2. Bicester who had been vying with Thame for second place throughout the season beat Oxford City and County and took 5 points but that was not enough to catch Thame and the final placings put Woodstock and Thame level at the top on 39.5 points each. Woodstock kept first place however as their accumulated shot difference for the whole season (95.5) was greater than Thame (73.25) but both teams are promoted to Division 2 for next year. A valiant effort for John Rawson’s team and Ian Rutherford’s rink with Geoff Roynon, Keith Brooks and Graham Watson all contributing magnificently, won with a score of 38 – 5, one of the highest of the season throughout all divisions.

The friendly match against Bicester scheduled for Saturday 5^th August was cancelled because of rain.

7.8.2023

: Last Updated: 07 August 2023; Hits: 140

Weekly Match Report - 31st July 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 15

Thame welcomed Didcot at home on Wednesday 26 July and extended their hospitality by conceding defeat 102 shots to 77. Thame’s best performing rink was played by Pete Southam, Jill Brooks and skip, John Hurley.

The men’s Oxfordshire Bowls League team played away on the following evening at Bicester, who were one place above them in the league table and after a nail-biting match, they ran out winners by 58 shots to 56. As Thame won on three out of four rinks, they took 5 points to Bicester’s 1 and moved up to second place. Ray Plested had all the pressure on the final end with scores level but won by one shot. Thame’s best performing rink was played by Geoff Roynon, Keith Brooks, Graham Watson and skip Ian Rutherford who won 19 – 10 and they now need a good result on 3 August against Blackbird Leys, to gain promotion.

On a typical English summer's afternoon of wind and rain, on Sunday 30^th, Thame entertained Abingdon Bowls Club. Dressed like explorers visiting the North Pole made the wet conditions difficult to control the woods and the game was prematurely ended after 14 ends with Abingdon winners by 71 shots to 63. The highest winning rink for Thame was on rink 6 with Sandra French, Jill Brooks and skip David Holland with an 18 to 8 shot victory. The weather didn't dampen the spirits of either team and a great, though thoroughly wet time, was had by all.

31.7.2023

: Last Updated: 31 July 2023; Hits: 174

Weekly Match Report - 26th July 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 14

Thame played a rearranged, mixed, friendly against Loudwater on Thursday 13 July and suffered a heavy defeat 91 shots to 45. Captain Gordon Taylor was also the best performing skip alongside Gini Williams and Alfred Jochum.

The men however had a convincing win against league leaders, Woodstock in the Oxfordshire Bowls League match on Thursday 20 July by 60 shots to 53. This gave them 4.5 points against Woodstock’s 1.5 and although they retained third place, are now only 4 points behind the leaders and 3.5 points behind Bicester in second place. Thame’s best rink was played by Ray Lewin, Mel Warner, Les Canfield and skip Chris Shannon who won 23 points to 9. There are now only two matches left against Bicester away, on 27 July and Blackbird Leys on 3 August at home.

The Purser Cup that had been swiftly rearranged by Competitions Secretary, Adrian Wilcox, for Saturday 22 July, after postponement on 9 July, unfortunately had to be delayed again because of wet and windy weather. A new date is yet to be agreed.

On Sunday, we welcomed Wendover with 6 rinks of triples in operation. Wendover had one late cry off, so Keith Brooks agreed to play for them, which he did annoying well to give a good score for Wendover. We were holding our own until a heavy shower approximately halfway through drove us off the rink. It all seemed to go downhill afterwards with an overall score of 77 to Thame and 120 to Wendover. We did however have one winning rink Dave Holland, Terri Blackburn and Gini Williams who won by 17 points to 13. Captain Roger Blackburn said ‘overall, a very pleasant atmosphere and despite the rain everybody seemed to enjoy it.’

26.7.2023

: Last Updated: 26 July 2023; Hits: 178

Weekly Match Report - 18th July 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 13

The Ladies were away on Monday 1Oth July at Wendover and won on all 3 rinks with an overall score of 59 - 37. The highest winning rink was Sandra French, Gini Williams and skip Barbara Waters with a score of 19 - 9. An enjoyable and friendly game was had by all.

Thame Men’s League team had a convincing win over Oxford City and County B on Thursday 13 July by 81 shots to 53 giving them 5 league points and taking them up to third place. They won on three rinks with the foursome of Norman Hyde, Jesse Matthews, John Rawson and skip, Bill Giles getting the highest win 28 – 6. They will play league leaders Woodstock at home on Thursday 20^th.

The Ladies match due to be played on Monday 17 July has had to be cancelled as Hazells were unable to field a team.

18.7.2023

: Last Updated: 18 July 2023; Hits: 152

Weekly Match Report - 10th July 2023

Thame Bowls Club No 12

Thame’s Men’s League team came up against a strong Chipping Norton side on Thursday 6 July in the Oxfordshire Bowls League and ended up winning by 67 shots to 62. This gave them 3.5 points to Chippies 2.5, but they remained in 4^th position (just .5 of a point down). Thame’s best rink was played by Geoff Roynon, Keith Brooks, Graham Watson and skip Ian Rutherford who won 23 – 13.

The friendly against Maidenhead Town due to be played on Saturday 8 July was cancelled following torrential rain during the morning and the Purser Cup due on Sunday 9 July was postponed because of a shortage of playing numbers. The ladies went to Hanborough for an early start of 10.00am for the semi-final of the County Top Club. Unfortunately, we lost with Hanborough winning 3 of the disciplines and Thame winning 1.

Heather Hallchurch had a very good game in the Singles, she was losing 14 - 20 and managed to get back to 19 by winning one shot on 5 continuous ends, but the opposition lady bowled on to the jack making the 21 shots she needed to win.

The Fours, consisting of Ann Ashfield, Gini Williams, Terri Blackburn and skip Frances Goodyear, and the Pairs of Jan Sargeant and skip Caroline Walker had very difficult rinks to bowl on, they tried their hardest to win but Hanborough came through in the end on both rinks.

The Triples of Maire Duncan, Deirdre Page and skip Jill Brooks were winning comfortably by 13 shots to 8, then lost their way for a while with Hanborough equalising, luckily they found it again and managed to beat them with a score of 20 - 14.

Overall, an enjoyable morning with sunshine and no rain! Thanks to Ron Duncan, John Ashfield and Roger Blackburn for chauffeuring us Ladies from Captain Jill Brooks.

10.7.2023

: Last Updated: 10 July 2023; Hits: 153

Weekly Match Report - 5th July 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 11

On Saturday 1st July Thame played High Wycombe at home looking to avenge a defeat on their green just 3 weeks ago. Luckily, we were able to do just that by winning 80 shots to 71 and winning on 3 of the 5 rinks as skipped by Frances, Les and Ian. The highest winning rink of these involved Gini WIlliams, Jill Brooks and skip, Ian Rutherford who was also Captain for the day, his first match in that role.

On a rather breezy but pleasantly warm Sunday afternoon on 2^nd July, Thame travelled to City and County with great expectations of a second Sunday win; and win we did by 83 shots to 76. Top rink was Maureen Giles, Jill Brooks and skip Bill Giles who won 17 shots to 10. We won on 3 rinks, lost on one and drew on one and that draw was quite remarkable. Jane Kimber, Peter Dawe and skip Colin French were 18-5 down after 13 ends but rallied well, got a 6 on the 14th and won the last 5 ends to draw 18-18. Thanks to everyone who played from Captain Bill Giles.

Thame Ladies played on 4^th July and despite the gentle rain and then a downpour we managed to play 12 ends. Thame had a very good win of 40 - 8. The winning rink was Terri Blackburn, Jackie Emberson and skip Frances Goodyear with a brilliant score of 18 - 1. Philippa Feltham, Marie Duncan and skip Caroline Walker also had a good win of 15 - 7. Captain Jill Brooks said, ‘many thanks to Jan Sargeant and Alison Wilkinson for playing for Watlington as they were 2 short to make up 3 triples.’

5.7.2023

: Last Updated: 05 July 2023; Hits: 187

Weekly Match Report - 27th June 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 10

Thame travelled to Leamington Spa on Sunday 25^th June and the following report is from Vice Chairman Gordon Taylor who organised the day.

‘Avenue Bowls Cub 87 Thame Bowls Club 99! Thame won 4 of the 6 rinks and our top rink was skipped by Jill Brooks ably supported by Keith Brooks and Leonard Grimshaw.

18 players and 2 guests travelled by coach to Leamington Spa on Sunday June 25 for a special game which came about because of Gordon Taylor and a member of Avenue BC, Dave Hobson, meeting on holiday last year in Norway. Avenue BC are celebrating their centenary year this year whilst Thame celebrate their centenary in 2024 when Avenue BC will make a reciprocal visit to Thame.

After the game, a two-course meal (which was excellent) was provided by a restaurant next to the bowling green; we then returned to the Bowls Club for the usual after meal speeches by the captains and the raffle in which we won several prizes. A good afternoon was had by all.’

The Ladies went to South Oxford on Monday 26th June with 4 Triples and lost on 3 rinks, the only winning rink was Marion Keal, Jan Sargeant and skip Jackie Emberson with a score of 16 - 9. The overall score was 55 Thame and 65 South Oxford. An enjoyable afternoon was had as per usual at South Oxford and a warm welcome to Philippa Feltham for playing in her first Ladies match.

27.6.2023

: Last Updated: 27 June 2023; Hits: 213

Weekly Match Report - 23rd June 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 9.

Gordon Taylor captained the match on 13^th June against Waddesdon on their home turf and lost by 84 shots to 64. Thame’s highest winning rink was played by Alfred Jochum, Alison Wilkinson and skip Ray Plested.

Thame’s Men’s League Team bounced back with a good win after some disappointing matches, by beating Blackbird Leys 61 shots to 51 earning 5 league points. Although they stayed in 4^th position, they are only one and a half points behind Chipping Norton and Bicester. The best rink was played by Geoff Roynon, Keith Brooks, Graham Watson and skip Ian Rutherford who won 21 – 11.

The mixed friendly against High Wycombe on 17^th June saw Thame lose by 95 shots to 73 but it was a good game enjoyed by all and captained by Gordon Taylor.

The game against Princes Risborough on 18 June was threatened with thunderstorms and torrential rain which, fortunately, didn't materialise and apart from a few spots of rain on the first 2 ends, was played in a dry but humid atmosphere. The game went well and going into the last end Thame had a one-shot advantage and although two of our rinks gained 3 shots on the 18th end, three of our rinks lost a total of 8 shots so Thame, although winning on 2 rinks and drawing on another, lost overall by 75 shots to 79. ‘I must admit, here, that it was my rink, with me as the skip, who lost 5 shots on the last end and thus the game. Our ladies did us proud with Jane Kimber, Heather Hallchurch and skip Jill Brooks defeating a men's triple by 21 shots to 11 making them the highest winning rink with Mike Zakaszewski, Marion Keal and skip Sharon Heafey winning by 16 shots to 12.’ Captain Bill Giles.

23.6.23

: Last Updated: 23 June 2023; Hits: 173

Weekly Match Report - 12th June 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 8.

Thame ladies had their match against Cheddington due on 7^th June, cancelled by the opposition as they were unable to field a team and they then learned that the scheduled Top Club quarter final against South Oxford had also been cancelled. They therefore progress to the semi final against either Bloxham or Hanborough on 9^th July.

Thame’s men suffered another league defeat on Thursday 8^th June against Bicester, going down by 73 shots to 47. Thame’s only winning rink was played by Adrian Wilcox, Dave Holland, Leonard Grimshaw and skip Ray Plested who won 17 – 11. They have now slipped to fourth place and visit Blackbird Leys on Thursday 15^th June.

We entertained Bicester on a sweltering afternoon on Saturday 10th June, as usual fielding a balanced mixed 5 triples team who all bowled well and enjoyed their participation. Congratulations go to Bicester who fielded their usual strong side with only one lady and won by a huge margin overall. The best performing triple for Thame was Colin French, Gini Williams, and Terri Blackburn. Captain for the day, Chris Shannon, thanks all his players for taking part and performing well.

The sun beat down on us at Gerrards Cross on Sunday 11 June and we held our own over the first 6 ends after which we had a short break from the searing heat. But as the storm clouds gathered, we gave away 7 shots on the following 6 ends but as the thunder struck, we came right back over the final 6 ends but only to lose by 95 shots to 102 in the end. Top rink was Keith Brooks Jesse Matthews and skip Frances Goodyear with a 22 to 13 win. As usual the members of Gerrards Cross Bowling Club made us extremely welcome, and we look forward to offering our hospitality to them when they come over to Thame on Saturday 22 July from Captain Bill Giles.

12.6.2023

: Last Updated: 17 June 2023; Hits: 188

Weekly Match Report - 4th June 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 7.

The Norfolk Cup match which took place on Friday 26 May is an annual competition between South Oxford Bowls Club and Thame’s Men, providing the winners with an impressive trophy. This year Thame were victorious in a closely fought duel by 67 shots to 65 and Bill Giles skipped the best winning rink by 26 shots to 13. Captain John Rawson commended Roger Blackburn for his contribution as this was his first outing for the men’s team.

Thame Ladies played at Princes Risborough on 31 May and had a very close and enjoyable game. Marion Keal, Deirdre Page & Jill Brooks were winning all through the match and on the 17th end the score was 14 - 12 to Thame, but unfortunately Risboro’ scored 3 on the last end and won by one shot. Gini Williams, Heather Hallchurch & Sharon Heafey were losing, but caught up and were winning until Risboro’ won the last 3 ends and. Overall score was Thame 28 & Princes Risborough 33.

Thame’s Men played their third Oxfordshire League match on Thursday 1 June against fellow table toppers, Woodstock and were comprehensively beaten by 78 shots to 47. They lost on three rinks but Ray Plested’s team drew 17 all to secure a half point in the league table. They did drop down to third position and will play Bicester at home on 8 June.

4.6.2023

: Last Updated: 06 June 2023; Hits: 197

Weekly Match Report - 30th May 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 6.

The delayed result from the away friendly fixture against Hagbourne on 20 May, proved to be a disappointing defeat by 119 shots to 64 with no winning rink.

The men’s League team however, continued their winning ways with a fine game against City and County B at home on 25 May. The overall score was 72 shots to 58 and they took 4 points giving them top place in Division 3. Their best rink was played by John Ashfield, Dave Holland, Leonard Grimshaw and skip Ray Plested winning 28 – 10.

The men also triumphed in the Norfolk Cup against South Oxford on Friday 26 May and the scores etc will follow.

The mixed friendly at Long Crendon on Saturday 27 May Captained by Roger Blackburn, proved to be a narrow defeat by 79 shots to 66. The weather was very warm and the Green very fast and Thame’s best rink was played by Mike Zakaszewski, Jane Kimber and skip Dave Holland.

The Club played the Whitsun Cup on Sunday 28 May, and a separate report will be added to the website.

30.5.2023

: Last Updated: 30 May 2023; Hits: 157

Weekly Match Report - 23rd May 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 5.

Thame Ladies played away at Hazells on Monday 15 May and although they lost by 54 shots to 40, they only lost by 1 point on two rinks. These two rinks were played by Sandra French, Marion Keal and skip Heather Hallchurch and by Gini Williams, Jan Sargeant and skip Jill Brooks. An enjoyable fixture in warm sunshine.

The first Men’s League game in Division 3 of the Oxfordshire Bowls League finished with a convincing win for Thame over Chipping Norton by 65 shots to 58.25 and this gave them 5 points against Chippies 1 point. They are now joint top with Blackbird Leys and Woodstock. Thame’s best rink was played by Adrian Wilcox, Dave Holland, Leonard Grimshaw and skip Ray Plested winning 25 – 18. A most encouraging start to the season and proved to be the Club’s first win.

The result of the mixed friendly game against Hagbourne on Saturday 20 May is not yet in but on Sunday 21 May, on a beautifully sunny Spring afternoon amid the glorious setting by the Thames, Thame Bowls Club were received by Henley Bowling Club. The green bowled well and up to the 16th end Thame were level on shots with our hosts. Then, as the band in the adjoining meadow continued to play, disaster struck and by the end of the game we had lost by 58 shots to 80. Our highest winning rink was Sandra French, Ron Duncan and skip Bill Giles with a 24 to 12 win.

'A very enjoyable afternoon was had by all with very pleasant company from the Henley team’ said Captain Bill Giles.

On Monday 22 May, Aston Clinton ladies could only arrange 2 Triples. On a warm and sunny day Thame Ladies had their first win of the season with an excellent score of 45 - 16. Winning rink was Jan Sargeant, Deirdre Page and skip Jill Brooks with a score of 27 - 8.

23.5.2023

: Last Updated: 25 May 2023; Hits: 174

Weekly Match Report - 15th May 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 4

Thame’s mixed friendly at Amersham was washed out on Tuesday 9 May because the Green was waterlogged. Let us hope that that is the only cancellation this season.

The Ladies played away at Marlow on Wednesday 10 May and although enjoyable and friendly, with just a short sharp shower, they went down by 46 shots to 37. Thame’s best rink was played by Marion Keal, Terri Blackburn and skip (and Captain) Jill Brooks who forced a draw.

The mixed friendly on Saturday 13 May, Captained by Roger Blackburn, was also away from home and played in very cold conditions at Adderbury. Another defeat, this time by 75 shots to 60 was softened by Ray Plested’s team taking 7 shots on one end but this was over-shadowed by ‘Hot Shots’ Les Canfield, Roger Blackburn, Pat Munday and Mike Hants who scored 8 on one end and finished winners by 23 shots to 8.

The match against Winslow on Sunday 14 May, was played in glorious spring sunshine which was a great bonus this year so far and especially since it is the first home game that we have played against them. All was going quite well until the last few ends when the visitors raced into the lead and won overall by 3 rinks to 2 and 84 shots to 67.

Thame's top rink, winning by 19 shots to 12, was Marion Keal, Jill Brooks and skip David Holland.

Thank you to everyone who helped organise the game from Captain Bill Giles.

15.5.2023

: Last Updated: 15 May 2023; Hits: 236

Weekly Match Report - 9th May 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 3.

Thame had an enjoyable triples match in the sunshine at Watlington on Sunday the 7th May. Four Triples played and although Thame were victorious on three rinks, Watlington made full advantage of home knowledge on the fourth winning by sufficient margin to swing the overall result their way 67 to 53. The pens went to Diane Mackriell, Heather Hallchurch and Chris Shannon as highest winning rink, though everyone bowled well, and we were pleased to welcome Graham Watson back to skip his rink to victory as well.

Thame Ladies played on a grey day on Monday 8 May, but at least it didn’t rain as forecast!
We lost to South Oxford with a score of 52 - 68. We won on 2 rinks and the winning rink was Gini Williams, Jan Sargeant and skip Heather Hallchurch with a score of 19 - 16. A very enjoyable and friendly game as is always with South Oxford. Captain Jill Brooks says ‘thanks to the ladies that helped and a special mention to Ray Lewin & Barry Green, who helped with setting out the tables and chairs!!!! ‘
Also on 8^th May, John Rawson’s Men’s League team were drawn against division two Headington B, in the League Cup, and played this rearranged fixture on a cold and wet bank holiday Monday evening. All four rinks performed well, with Adrian Wilcox, David Holland, Leonard Grimshaw and the skip Ray Plested winning on their rink by 29 shots to 18. We managed a win on one other rink too, but sadly just lost the match by a narrow margin of 7 shots overall. It was however an excellent overture for the league season and hopefully we can discard the wet gear for our opening home league match against Chipping Norton on the 18^th May.

9.5.2023

: Last Updated: 09 May 2023; Hits: 177

Weekly Match Report - 7th May 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 2

The first Saturday match of the season was played away at a very sunny Maidenhead Thicket on 29 April and was Captained by Chris Shannon. The result in a very close match went Maidenheads way by 85 shots to 81 but Thame’s best rink was played by Mike Hants, Norman Hyde and skip Les Canfield who ran out winners 28 – 7. This was particularly pleasing as this was Mike’s first game for the Club and he committed himself very well.

The midweek home match on Tuesday, 2 May, against Waddesdon went the visitor’s way by 93 shots to 64 but Thame’s best rink was played by Alfred Jochum, Dave Hickman and skip Deidre Page who won 20 shots to 6. Captain Gordon Taylor although disappointed with the result, said that the team will improve with more practice going forward.

On Friday 5 May, Thame Ladies played their first match of the season against Princes Risborough at home. They were lucky with the weather with just one sharp 5-minute shower. Risborough could only field two triples but finished overall winners by 40 points to 31. Thame’s winning rink was played by Jan Sargeant, Maire Duncan and skip Caroline Walker who finished 17 – 12.

After the Coronation, matches will come thick and fast, with a mixed friendly away at Watlington on Sunday 7 May and a Ladies match against South Oxford at home on 8 May as well as a Men’s League Cup match at home against Headington B, also on 8 May at home. On the 9 May there is a mixed friendly away at Amersham before the usual weekend matches take place.

7.5.2023

: Last Updated: 07 May 2023; Hits: 185

Weekly Match Report - 28th April 2023

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter No 1.

Following a full closed season of social events and a brand-new Short Mat League entry (and many friendly afternoons and evenings), Thame were looking forward to opening the outdoor matches. A good number of hardy souls worked hard in preparing the Green and it is now up to some summer sun to complete the picture.

The first friendly game for Thame was Captained by Ron Duncan, away against ChessVale and they were narrowly beaten 81 to 88.

The only winning rink was Terry Emberson, Keith Brooks and Roger Blackburn, who won by eight shots. Although the surface was challenging, we had enjoyable afternoon which started in sunshine but ended in rain!

The second match was on Sunday 23 April away at Marlow Captained by Roger Blackburn who says ‘A big thankyou to all players that turned up at Marlow despite the forecast of rain all day, luckily the rain held off until we got back in the clubhouse. It’s good that we managed to field six triples without a few of the regulars present, which bodes well for the coming season. We did lose on all 6 rinks, but they had some very strong players scattered throughout the teams. The captain’s team was particularly strong, we did well to hold them to a 5-point deficit. Our best rink was Caroline Walker, Maire Duncan and Heather Hallchurch who lost by one point on the last leg. The trio of Jesse, Norman, and Terri fought back well in the 2^nd half to go into the last end only 2 points down.

The final score however was 101 to Marlow and 71 to Thame.

The midweek match against Princes Risborough on 26 April was Captained by Gordon Taylor and featured another defeat for Thame by 43 shots to 80 with no winning rink. The team of Roger Mackriell, Terri Blackburn and Gordon Taylor did manage a draw and there are high hopes that in the forthcoming games, the first win is not too far away.

28.4.23

: Last Updated: 28 April 2023; Hits: 219

Weekly Match Report - 27th September 2022

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter 22.

The last friendly game of the season was played at Marlow on 22 September with 6 triples taking part. Thanks go to everyone playing especially to Chris Shannon and Tom Devaney for stepping in at the last minute. The game was played in an enjoyable spirit with Thame winning on 2 rinks but losing overall by 87 shots to 101. Thame's top rink was Peter Southam, Terri Blackburn and skip Geoff Roynon who won by 22 shots to 9 and the other new skip, Roger Blackburn only lost by 2 shots after picking up 7 on the last end. A great game to end our 2022 outdoor season.

On a rather cloudy autumnal Sunday 24 September, the annual match between the Chairman and Secretary took place with 40 members bowling-4 sets of triples and 2 sets of rinks. The game was very close overall with just a few shots in it, but the Secretary's team won by 3 rinks to 2 with the Chairman and Secretary drawing on 10 shots each.

The highest winning rink for the Secretary was Terri Blackburn, Roger Mackriell, Gordon Taylor and skip Ron Duncan and on the Chairman's side Mike Zakaszewski (playing only his second game of the season after injury) Ian Rutherford and skip Roger Blackburn.

After the match members enjoyed tea and cakes and, if inclined, drinks from the bar.

A fitting end to a glorious season of outdoor bowls-now bring on the winter short mat!!

27.9.2022

: Last Updated: 28 April 2023; Hits: 298

Weekly Match Report - 20th September 2022

Thame Bowls Club weekly newsletter 21

Thame were entertained by Bassetsbury Manor Bowls Club, High Wycombe, on a damp Tuesday afternoon 13 September. The weather did us no favours and we lost by 64 shots to 112. On the bright side it was wonderful to have 9 ladies in the team of 15. The two newish skips, Roger Blackburn and Peter Dawe both had good games but the top rink for Thame was Terri Blackburn, Roger Mackriell and skip David Holland.

On 17 September, a beautifully sunny Autumn afternoon, Cheddington Bowls Club hosted Thame. Of the four triples Thame won three but lost overall by 58 shots to 69. All three winning rinks won by one shot but after a count back on ends won, the best winning rink was June Greene, Bill Giles and skip Roger Blackburn. The green played well with woods turning more than three or four feet and together with the bowlers from Cheddington made it a very enjoyable afternoon.

20.9.2022

: Last Updated: 20 September 2022; Hits: 248

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