CALIFORNIA BOWLS CLUB
SPONSORED BY CAMEL SAND & GRAVEL
SPONSORED BY CAMEL SAND & GRAVEL
Newsletter 2017/01 (25th February 2017)
Welcome to the first newsletter of 2017, with the season fast approaching I have a few items of interest (I hope) to report. Our new shirts are on order and hopefully should be available well in time for the new season, in the end about 80 shirts were ordered and I guess after people see them there may be an additional order placed. In addition members were given the chance to purchase a waterproof style jacket with the same colour scheme, again I understand from Treasurer Deb about 15 have been ordered and I can see more people may wish to purchase one once they have seen them. Both the jackets and shirts have risen in price from the manufactures since our initial enquiry, but to members the prices for now remain the same. As a club we are again indebted to Camel Sand & Gravel whose generous sponsorship has helped discount the price of first shirts to our members.
The Cali BC website has been given its annual make over, with updated info in many areas including a provisional fixture list. Most of the information required for the list is now available; however I am still awaiting some cup draws and cup matches to sort so it’s not a “final” as yet. Also on the web there is the usual important dates section, I make no apology for highlighting 3 of these here, (i) Our annual fund raising Quiz evening, it’s always a little disappointing to see so few bowls members attend, after all its in your interest we run a quiz, so why not come along on Sunday 12th March at 7.30, get a friend or 3 to make a team. Ian needs to know if you intend to enter at team by the 7th at the latest on the list for entries in the club hall lobby; (ii) Final date for payment for Subscriptions and Competition Fees is 31st March, Treasurer Deb will be in the club lounge at 7pm on the 31st March for any last minute payers, all members should have a received your letter with their dues and demands by now; (iii) Finally another fund raising venture we are repeating a Race Night on 23rd April in the club hall at 7.30pm. Once again I would urge all members to come along and bring a friend to support the event, it’s just a bit of fun and as always it’s in the bowls clubs interest.
On the fund raising issue, you may have seen on our web site (also in the club Bar/Hall) a notice asking if any one wishes to advertise a business with us. The intention is to affix a sign advertising board on the fence down the house garden side of the green, this for a modest annual fee. We already have a couple of interested parties, Secretary John will have more details, re size, type and fees.
As you all will have noticed storm Doris caused a fair amount of damage, the bowls club did not escape, in the main it was just fence panels, but regretfully one panel flew from its posts pitched in the middle of the green at the club end and continued on its merry way until it landed against the Hawthorn hedge on the other side of the green. The said “pitch” mark is about 3 inches wide and 4 feet long and the grass has been stripped off. Not good, but Mick has been out about with his bucket of seed and top dressing to “fill in” the damaged area and given some decent weather we hope it knits in ready for the 2017 off on Sunday 16th April. Other than this problem the green has been well looked after over the winter, however as always come late March running up to the start of season there will be much to do, and members who can offer a bit of help would be most welcome. Again this coming season we shall be looking for weekly help with jobs around the place, I will contact all those who kindly helped last year on the rota, but as always should any “new blood” offer to help they will gladly be included within the rota (it amounts to 2 hours about once a month) any offers please speak to Chris Love.
Finally couple of note worthy items, we have agreed at our last committee meeting to “post” a copy of each Cali newsletter to your email in box, copies will still be on the web in the usual place and a “hard copy” still placed in the pavilion. Should you wish to receive a personal copy to your in box please can you let Debbie A know your preferred email address. Lastly I bumped into an “old friend” the other day who wished to be remembered to all at Cali who know him. Many of you who played for the club in the 90’s to early 00’s will remember Peter Peakman, he is still about although he has not been too well recently he says he now on the road to recovery. Having played with Peter in the Fed County Pairs for a few seasons I can personally testify to his excellent bowls ability and easy manner on the bowls green. It was good to see him and know he was still going strong.
That’s it for now - all the best, Chris
Newsletter 2017/02 (23rd April 2017)
Now that the playing season is upon us I must thank several members who have helped enormously in preparing not only our green, but pavilion and surrounds as well, making ready for our opening day. Firstly we must thank Stuart Walsh for revamping the area where mats, scoreboards, cots and markers are stored, it looks a treat. Many other members namely Colin Ambrose Phil Bradley, Colin Gostling, Dick Kennedy, Joyce Love, David Salmon, Ray Whitman along with the ever dependable Mick Page have all contributed in getting the bowls area ship shape. All members should feel indebted to those mentioned above. We must thank Debbie and Christian Allum for all their efforts with the new shirts and jackets and a special thanks to Secretary John without his efforts we would not have a club. At this point I would also like to thank the 8 members who have agreed to help with the tasks of keeping the club neat and tidy on a rota basis, it’s only a couple of hours once a month, but to Mick & myself it is invaluable. I know there have been a few others who have offered to help out some times, your offers have not been forgotten, as and when either Mick or myself will be in touch.
The opening day Triples went off in reasonable weather, which was a bonus, considering the forecast for the Sunday morning. In the event 27 played and several more collected cards, handbooks etc. for the new season. Before play started new Chairman Chris said a few words of thanks to all who had helped and with club Sponsor Rob from Camel Sand & Gravel in attendance the new shirts & jackets were given a airing (see picture below). A big thank you to Rob for his financial input for the new shirts, let’s hope they have a much success as the old ones!.
On the social front the quiz went well raising about £240 for club funds, once again it’s a pity a few more bowls club members (only 15 did bother) don’t support this event, but so many find some excuse. As has been noted on opening day, after the A V B and on our web site the date for the Race Night had to be changed due to circumstances beyond our control as they say, it is now on Sunday 7th May. So no excuses this time it’s just a bit of fun why not come along, have a laugh and a flutter and help raise some money for the Bowls Club at the same time.
Last Thursday we held our annual A team v B team with Fish & Chips to follow, it was not a great evening weather wise, but in the main the rain held off, but it was a bit chilly. All 5 rinks of Triples involving 30 players took part and with a few exceptions both Captains were pretty well supported by their players. As for the game it was a close affair which you may expect after all both teams are in the top division of the 2 bowl league, in the event the ‘A’ team did win but only by a small number of shots.
Members will see from our fixture list we have a friendly arranged against a touring team from West Mersey who will be heading home from a tour in Norfolk, we will be playing on Monday 3rd July in the afternoon, keep the day free if you can we have to find 16 players.
Sorry to have to report on a pre season injury, but Sue Peck has a broken shoulder, Sue managed to smash the shoulder up (pins everywhere on the X-ray) whilst diving out of the way of a runaway moped & rider whilst on holiday in Thailand. Sue hopes to be “fit” again by July, from all at Cali hope the healing process goes well and you make a full recovery.
Finally I am especially sad to report of the death (16th April) of Ray Love my dad, a very long standing member and former Chairman of California Bowls Club. From playing until a few seasons ago, to Greensman to which he was still involved, to Chairman until 2016 and a general supporter of the club and it standards. My dad was an integral part of our club and will be sorely missed by many, he had been suffering to a degree with ill health for sometime, matters worsened at the end of March to the extent he was hospitalised from which regretfully he never recovered. Secretary John conducted a minutes silence on the green in Ray’s memory before the A V B.
That’s it for now - all the best, Chris
Newsletter 2017/03 (13th June 2017)
The season got off to a cold dry start and then a few downpours and now we have hot and dry weather which is much more like it!
As for the bowling, league wise things have been going poorly, last years only winning league team the Fed Triples lost away first up then won then lost again. The two 2 bowl ‘A’ Division teams have only won 1 game out of 8 between them and that when they played each other. Ok it was possibly expected with our second team but not the first, in addition both Senior and Junior cups have lost, the former having won a game at home to Bramford then got stuffed by IBC away. The Junior cup however was a sad affair 12 players plus a couple of reserves, game starts reserves disappear, player suffers back injury, Cali play most of the game one short and lose by 5 shots. Lessons about at least one reserve staying need to be learnt, to make matters worse one of the reserves was holed up in the bar unbeknown to the Captain or teammates. On the subject of reserves again I've noticed a bit of a trend for a few members to regularly "cross off" when down as reserve, don't let it be you it’s just not on! Due to bye weeks, bad greens and bank holidays Stan’s Monday Samford team have had a very disjointed start to their campaign, the afternoon team have fared a little better. Our two BE teams have had contrasting fortunes, the Mixed Fours have played all 4 games away from home losing closely on a couple of occasions latterly by 1 shot, but the Men's side of things are reasonably placed in the league and are still involved in all 5 cups. What does it all mean? I personally think our results in the BE cups prove we can compete), but it’s no good splitting resources in our 2 bowl fed teams we are not strong enough. Whilst I accept this year is a one off, if we wish to compete at the top level (we are remember a competitive based club) we need our best players to be in 1 strong team much as we do for the BE cups.
Both codes in county competition rumble on, we have several left in the men’s Fed events, but most have at least 1more game to play to get through to the "areas". Less so in the BE ones, but in these the Allum family have been going well, with Deb & Steve through to the ¼ finals in the Mixed Pairs a year after going out first round as defending champions on the “plastic” of Felixstowe. In addition Christian is through to the ¼ finals of the CofC with a couple of wins including one over John Rednall no less. As for Ladies Fed Debbie Allum along with Ann & Pam have an Area semi final in the 3 Bowl Triples to play and in addition Debbie again and Ann have a Pairs to play at the same stage.
Off the field, the race night was fun again, but alas still only a minimal number of bowlers attended which is a pity, still it raised some money for the club, thanks to Ian and his helpers. We have a few injuries Sue Peck may well be out for the season with a shoulder problem, whilst Andy Catchpole is suffering with a long term back issue, in addition I now hear June Griffiths is in hospital, to all of you get well soon from all at the Cali. Sadly I also have to report the passing of 2 former members in Jack Jeffs & Roly Downing many of our longer serving members will be familiar with these two players of yester year.
Over the past few weeks we have had our share of match rearrangements due to weather, oppositions failing to raise a team, and in addition we have had to do a bit of fixture juggling to accommodate our own cup matches. So with all the regular scheduled league games, rearrangements and our cup commitments (2 Stan Wright and the Samford Cups teams start soon) we have plenty of games still to play. One extra game we are hosting a touring side from West Mersey early next month, the team will be posted shortly.
Last few items to report on, first once again all 3 of the Page family are heavily involved in the Fed County Team set up this year, well done to you all. Secondly the draws for our club competitions have been made and will be published shortly. Lastly and most importantly the quality of our green must be mentioned, I've played nowhere better this season and frankly many greens we have played are a disgrace, there is no excuse with all the dry weather for heavy greens, but they abound around this area. Mick and the other helpers must be applauded; most visiting players have been impressed, by our green which has been fast and excellent to play on. As always a massive amount of work is put in by Mick and others, yes you need a bit of luck with the weather, but in the main thanks Mick.
That’s all till next time when I hope our general league form improves
Chris
Newsletter 2017/04 (9th July 2017)
Regret to say as a club our poor league form has now transferred to the cups as well, losing both the Norton Cup v Rookery & the Quinton Bowl v Cornard by big margins. It difficult to say why, but in the Quinton we were missing 3 or 4 people who would have played if available. Speaking of my rink both Colin Gostling & Trevor Ward were excellent and did not deserve to be on the losing side. Also judging by many comments “the luck” was not on our side, but as we all know how however good you may be luck plays an important role. People often say luck evens it’s self out over a season, that may be so, but it’s when you get it. 5 down tight cup game last bowl in hand, high wide and not very handsome, clunk click sorry!, holding 1, thank you, that’s IMPORTANT. Or 20 to 7 up 2 ends to go in a league game, same set of circumstances with the bowl, that’s NOT IMPORTANT, but the luck has evened out!.
All that said our league form has been pretty poor, Mal’s Samford Afternoon and Deb’s Fed Triples are the exceptions, Mal’s team did pull off one massive surprise in winning 5 – 0 away on the Felixstowe carpet, all goes well for next their next visit in a couple of weeks time. The less said about both Tuesday teams the better although, Chris ‘B’ team did win their first game of the season away at Bramford. In the men’s Wednesday BE we do look like qualifying, but we cannot afford to many more slip ups. Stan’s Samford Monday team’s form is improving a bit, but to me the sets within the team are well out of balance to many eggs in one basket!. Again our Mixed Fours teams form is slowly improving and they do have the bulk of their games to play at home.
Picture Below, you may not believe it, but on the Felixstowe Carpet the 3 Red bowls nearest the Jack are our own Keith Bassett’s !, No seriously Keith’s been in excellent form and having watched that evening he had a super game. PS the picture was not set up it was as it happened.
As for the other cups in the ND4’s we went out at the 3rd round stage in an excellent game v Felixstowe & Suffolk’s main team by a very close 6 shots. The Bert Edward’s team continues to do the club proud reaching the semi finals once again this year where they now meet Melton, which will be one of 8 meetings between the clubs this season, who we also play in the BE Millennium. Both Stan Wright teams came through first round games unscathed, with Chris Wiseman’s crew doing especially well to defeat a decent Marlborough team. Both Samford Cup competitions are yet to start.
Our green has remained superb all year with just about the right amount of rain, a little luck and much hard work by Mick & Co., I’ve only heard positive comments from all and sundry. Indeed a first for Cali we hosted some neutral green Area Semi Finals of the Fed Ladies county comps and only last weekend hosted a ¼ final of the Quinton Bowl between 2 top clubs in F&S v IBC. I suppose the quality of the green in some ways does not help our home advantage, but all the same it’s good to hear those positive comments.
Turning to County Competitions, in the Fed world some of our Ladies did progress to the area stages with Pam Noble, Debbie Allum and Ann Baxter-Smith losing in the semi final of the Triples and Debbie & Ann going 1 stage further in the Pairs. As for the men they are a couple of stages behind and now play in the area semi stage to be held at Stone Lodge. Whilst the BE code have reached the County semi stage at Roundwood next Sunday, Christian Allum is in the CofC after a good win against Ashley Sale and in the Mixed Pairs Debbie & Steve Allum played and won in monsoon conditions at Borough of Eye.
Full list of events and qualifiers below :-
Ladies Area ‘C’ S/F
2 Bowl Triples
Pam Noble, Debbie Allum & Ann Baxter-Smith
Ladies Area ‘C’ Final
Pairs
Debbie Allum & Ann Baxter-Smith
Men's Area ‘C’ S/F
4 Bowl Singles
Gary Green
Pairs
Christian Allum & Chris Love
Mixed Triples
Debbie Bassett, Mick Page & Keith Bassett
Mixed Triples
Debbie Allum, Steve Allum & Christian Allum
Under 25’s Singles
Adam Page
Men’s BE County S/F
Champ of Champs
Christian Allum
Mixed Pairs
Debbie Allum & Steve Allum
Only last Monday we hosted a touring team from West Mersea who had been away for a long weekend in Norfolk, it’s not something we do very often at Cali, but when approached we try to help. By all accounts all went very well apart from a slightly errant weather forecast by myself and everybody seemed to enjoy the day. Lots of hard work by Di Catchpole, Julie Kennedy & Joyce Love for the catering and a special mention to Hanna & Maria for their handywork with Cup Cakes (buns to my generation) see picture below. We may have won the match convincingly but we “lost” the draw 7 – 1, anyway all in all a good day, thanks to those who played.
This year has been unbelievable for the number of rearrangements we have suffered, over the winter I had to move a few games to cope with clashes at home, but we have had a multitude of games cancelled through oppositions not being able to field a team. Only 2 call offs were weather related, the situation is now critical and should we have any more games off or cup games to fix its weekends or mid August just about.
Just a big reminder at this stage, our annual Charity day is looming large on the horizon, PLEASE PLEASE, bowlers get your names on the list to play, Ian needs 24 players as normal to make it work, don’t duck out offer to play!.
Lastly time to name and shame, I think only once before in over 30 years playing ‘A’ division bowls in Ipswich has a team entirely disappeared after a game with no socialising, yes a few never come in, but not a whole 12. Forget the excuses and the “slinkers” off without a word, shame on you all, after all it is in the end a social game. Why should we as a club patronise their club whilst they do not reciprocate, California Social Club might as well benefit from £60 over the bar when we play the offenders away rather than Ipswich & District’s bar and I reckon they need the money more that we do.
That’s all folk’s
Chris
Newsletter 2017/05 (7th August 2017)
Well the bulk of the County Competitions are over for 2017 and regretfully Cali didn’t win anything, a few close run things but no “pot of silver”. Near misses, Christian Allum in the BE Champ of Champs final 21 – 12 ended as Runner Up to the same player who won last year’s event Andrew Drummond from Otley. Other close calls were “The Allum’s” in the Fed Mixed Triples dipping out by a single shot 21 – 22 in the Semi Final and Gary Green also missing out by a single shot 20 – 21 in the 4 Bowl Singles, although that tells only a fraction of the story. Gary was 20 – 9 up against the afor mentioned Mr. Drummond when the proverbial wheel fell off, but according to those present it was not that Gary having a dip in form, but more some inspirational bowls and a chunk of good fortune for his opponent. Lastly on the subject of county competitions Adam Page & Mat Milam (Open Under 25’s Pairs) got back to final after last year’s success only to miss out on this occasion, regrettably for the boys concerned the subject of dress code reared its ugly head again, it helps NOBODY !, no more to be said at this time.
In league play with 1 game to go Debbie’s 3 Bowl Triples team have all but won the league for a second successive year after a hard fought 4 – 3 win at Westerfield and Mal’s Samford afternoonies are looking good for a divisional win despite a loss last week. In the Mixed Fours results have picked up a fair bit, until this week’s loss at Holywells (a very difficult place to win at), regretfully the turn round in form came a game or so too late. This has also been the case for both Ipswich 2 Bowl teams. The ‘A’ team have played much more like it recently and as for Chris’s ‘B’ team some of their performances of late have been nothing short of remarkable, wins at home v Norbridge & Kirton and a close 3 – 4 loss away at Marlborough, regretfully all too late. The less said about the Samford Monday evening league team the better, but both the K.O. Cup and Millennium teams are in at the semi final stage. We have had many fixture clashes this year virtually all of which are unavoidable, they often are on Monday & Friday evenings, normally we don’t have much trouble in fielding 2 teams i.e. Tuesday & Wednesday, but when they crop up on a Friday we do sometimes struggle. Members should understand if we “drop” a competition or league team in the future that’s it one less event with no viable alternative. Some members do rely on getting a game or second game in a Friday team, think of them and help out even if it is just occasionally. Many of our members do “help out” and I know our Captains are very thankful for that, but it’s just the few “never on a Friday crew” that is until it’s something they want to play in!. Last team to mention is the Men’s BE, in the league with a game to go a 5 -1 win v Melton will secure a playoff berth that’s if other results go against us. In the BE cups we play the Q/final at home v Margaret Catchpole this after a couple of hard fought wins away at Eye and Melton and best of all the after two disappointing losses v Ipswich & District in the last two BEF finals it was 3rd time lucky (not lucky at all really), with a 5 shot win. Well done to all concerned, I think everyone involved was “well up for it” as they say, this after the last two years heartache.
Steve Allum pictured receiving the Trophy from County President Bill Quinton.
Bert Edwards Fours Winners 2017 California
The game after the usual Cali poor start in lousy wet conditions turned when the sun came out and the green sped up. One rink Aidy Turner, Kevin French, Lee Powell & Skip Steve Allum played brilliantly and had a massive win. Brian Green’s rink was a very close affair (lost by 1 shot) and Keith (Bertie) Bassett’s rink got a bit a drubbing, but nearly as important as the big winning rink the 2 loosing rinks crucially won their last ends, just single shot’s, but what a big difference it meant to those playing the last end. The last cup to mention is the Stan Wright team (Chris’s) who will be playing a semi final this coming week v Bramford ‘A’ good luck to all the cup and league sides who still have something to play for.
Last few items to report on, best of luck to Ian Page who will be playing in the Adams Trophy final at Skegness later this month and to members Keith Bassett & Phil Bradley for being part of a successful Area ‘C’ Marie Denny side in 2017. Thanks to all those who were involved in another successful Charity Pairs Day, whether playing, organising, helping or just plain supporting thanks to one and all, (details / pictures of the day to be found elsewhere on this web site). Lastly yet more thanks to those who continue to keep our green in excellent order
That’s all folk’s
Chris
Newsletter 2017/06 (30th September 2017)
Well that’s the season done and dusted, with all the fixture cancellations Merv did a grand job with the club competitions, all finals played on the weekend and this with the clubs involvement in the BE Millennium Final stages. I know a few people were scratched and obviously a few members were not best pleased, but I’m sure all parties had opportunities to play those games before being eliminated. A full list of our winners is on the web site not surprisingly under the “Club comp results” tab, let’s hope you can all attend our prize presentation on the 23rd November, catering as per usual, entertainment “Jim Bob”.
As for the season much talk of lack of success, but just have a think, although no individuals won county competitions we did have a couple of runners up, plus some losing county semi finalists. We won the Fed Triples League for the second year running and won a section in the Samford Afternoon League well done to all who played. In addition 2 runners up spots in a couple of charity Cups namely the Stan Wright & Samford KO, then add in wins in a couple of “Big” events namely the BE Bert Edwards Fours and late on in the season the BE Millennium, would we have taken that in May? I think many would, yes as always we could have done even better especially in some leagues, but there are only so many “pots” to win and I suggest we had a good share compared with most in 2017 !.
The win in the Millennium was especially satisfying not because of who we beat, namely obvious rivals Norbridge in the semi final, but then Cornard who had stuffed us earlier in the season in the Quinton, in the final. No that was not the main reason (but let’s face it, it did help) the main reason should be seen as in a difficult format i.e. a point a rink for the 5 events everybody contributed on the day, each discipline won at least once. The Triples starred with Brian Green, Ian Wiseman & Kevin Halls winning in both morning and afternoon sessions, the latter being a very exciting extra end win with a ditched jack in the final.
As usual at this time of year its AGM season, with many meetings to attend, also work is required to renovate our green which we hope to maintain at the same high standard as in 2017. Thanks on the green front especially to Mick Page and all who helped and continue to do so, without help it would be an impossible task.
Finally a couple of reminders, our AGM is on the 16th November, agendas etc. will be out early in the month and our Dinner & Prize giving is 23rd November, the list for tickets is up in the club for members and their guests to put names and numbers on .
That’s all folk’s
Chris
Newsletter 2017/07 (29th November 2017)
Heading towards the end of the year now, so that can only mean Cali AGM’s then dinner and prize giving. Turning to our club AGM first, on our committee we have all the usual admin positions and luckily for us all the incumbents from 2017 agreed to stay on which gives the club a great deal of stability and all our members should be grateful for that. The rest of our committee is made up of captains, now that’s an entirely different story, year on year clubs we meet throughout the course of the season and time after time it’s the same captain. Of our 7 captains some have served a few years, but with our 2 strongest squads it is nearly always 1 or 2 years as captain then retire, which to a certain extent is unfortunate as it’s not as if these team are not successful. On the flip side however often new captains bring new ideas which can be a good thing, I’m just puzzled why so many successful captains then quit. After a bit of arm twisting and even a ballot all the captaincy rolls were filled so we can move on to next year. Other than that the AGM was a pretty straight forward affair, as Chairman I was told by several members we would be “in for a long night” this proved to be way off the mark we even finished a quarter of hour earlier than last year!!
The dinner and prize giving saw just under 70 people in attendance, all the club competition winners excluding one on the sick list were there to receive their prizes, which is especially good as all the events were again sponsored this year. Special thanks to all who contributed in that regard, along with all those who helped with the set up, tidy away and on the day in general. As usual the meal was of a high standard and the entertainment “Jim Bob” to my ears was equally good, one or two over indulged and probable now wished they had not. We even had one gentleman who decided to check how tall / short he was when measured against a table on the floor, he of course insisted he had only had 2 drinks by that stage in the evening, the jury’s out on that if you know the person concerned. Talking about Mick Page (oops!) this year we had a new perpetual trophy, “Member of the year” donated to the bowls club by Ian Page, in memory of our late long serving former Chairman Ray Love. The new award was fully supported by Ray’s family and was voted on by members of the club. Mick has done sterling work with our green and surrounds for many years, but this year I believe the green was the best it has ever been and the award must have reflected Mick’s efforts. The Page family made it a clean sweep of the awards voted on by members, with Ian Page collecting the “Player of the year” award for the first time. (Pictures to follow).
As I mentioned above our green in 2017 was excellent and yes Mick’s is the “main man” but there were many other people who helped in all aspects of running the club from the green, to admin, to captaincy, to catering, to gardens etc. etc. and as I said at the AGM if you do help thank you very much for all you do, for those who are unable to help I trust you fully appreciated the efforts of those who do.
Regretfully we have 3 or 4 members who are not that well or injured at the present, to all of you, the best wishes of all at Cali go out to you at this time, to one and all get well soon we look forward to seeing you out and about again shortly.
As always, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all Cali members and their family’s early compliments of the upcoming season and roll on April when we will be back on the green in the cold and wet!
That’s all folk’s
Chris
Welcome to the first newsletter of 2017, with the season fast approaching I have a few items of interest (I hope) to report. Our new shirts are on order and hopefully should be available well in time for the new season, in the end about 80 shirts were ordered and I guess after people see them there may be an additional order placed. In addition members were given the chance to purchase a waterproof style jacket with the same colour scheme, again I understand from Treasurer Deb about 15 have been ordered and I can see more people may wish to purchase one once they have seen them. Both the jackets and shirts have risen in price from the manufactures since our initial enquiry, but to members the prices for now remain the same. As a club we are again indebted to Camel Sand & Gravel whose generous sponsorship has helped discount the price of first shirts to our members.
The Cali BC website has been given its annual make over, with updated info in many areas including a provisional fixture list. Most of the information required for the list is now available; however I am still awaiting some cup draws and cup matches to sort so it’s not a “final” as yet. Also on the web there is the usual important dates section, I make no apology for highlighting 3 of these here, (i) Our annual fund raising Quiz evening, it’s always a little disappointing to see so few bowls members attend, after all its in your interest we run a quiz, so why not come along on Sunday 12th March at 7.30, get a friend or 3 to make a team. Ian needs to know if you intend to enter at team by the 7th at the latest on the list for entries in the club hall lobby; (ii) Final date for payment for Subscriptions and Competition Fees is 31st March, Treasurer Deb will be in the club lounge at 7pm on the 31st March for any last minute payers, all members should have a received your letter with their dues and demands by now; (iii) Finally another fund raising venture we are repeating a Race Night on 23rd April in the club hall at 7.30pm. Once again I would urge all members to come along and bring a friend to support the event, it’s just a bit of fun and as always it’s in the bowls clubs interest.
On the fund raising issue, you may have seen on our web site (also in the club Bar/Hall) a notice asking if any one wishes to advertise a business with us. The intention is to affix a sign advertising board on the fence down the house garden side of the green, this for a modest annual fee. We already have a couple of interested parties, Secretary John will have more details, re size, type and fees.
As you all will have noticed storm Doris caused a fair amount of damage, the bowls club did not escape, in the main it was just fence panels, but regretfully one panel flew from its posts pitched in the middle of the green at the club end and continued on its merry way until it landed against the Hawthorn hedge on the other side of the green. The said “pitch” mark is about 3 inches wide and 4 feet long and the grass has been stripped off. Not good, but Mick has been out about with his bucket of seed and top dressing to “fill in” the damaged area and given some decent weather we hope it knits in ready for the 2017 off on Sunday 16th April. Other than this problem the green has been well looked after over the winter, however as always come late March running up to the start of season there will be much to do, and members who can offer a bit of help would be most welcome. Again this coming season we shall be looking for weekly help with jobs around the place, I will contact all those who kindly helped last year on the rota, but as always should any “new blood” offer to help they will gladly be included within the rota (it amounts to 2 hours about once a month) any offers please speak to Chris Love.
Finally couple of note worthy items, we have agreed at our last committee meeting to “post” a copy of each Cali newsletter to your email in box, copies will still be on the web in the usual place and a “hard copy” still placed in the pavilion. Should you wish to receive a personal copy to your in box please can you let Debbie A know your preferred email address. Lastly I bumped into an “old friend” the other day who wished to be remembered to all at Cali who know him. Many of you who played for the club in the 90’s to early 00’s will remember Peter Peakman, he is still about although he has not been too well recently he says he now on the road to recovery. Having played with Peter in the Fed County Pairs for a few seasons I can personally testify to his excellent bowls ability and easy manner on the bowls green. It was good to see him and know he was still going strong.
That’s it for now - all the best, Chris
Newsletter 2017/02 (23rd April 2017)
Now that the playing season is upon us I must thank several members who have helped enormously in preparing not only our green, but pavilion and surrounds as well, making ready for our opening day. Firstly we must thank Stuart Walsh for revamping the area where mats, scoreboards, cots and markers are stored, it looks a treat. Many other members namely Colin Ambrose Phil Bradley, Colin Gostling, Dick Kennedy, Joyce Love, David Salmon, Ray Whitman along with the ever dependable Mick Page have all contributed in getting the bowls area ship shape. All members should feel indebted to those mentioned above. We must thank Debbie and Christian Allum for all their efforts with the new shirts and jackets and a special thanks to Secretary John without his efforts we would not have a club. At this point I would also like to thank the 8 members who have agreed to help with the tasks of keeping the club neat and tidy on a rota basis, it’s only a couple of hours once a month, but to Mick & myself it is invaluable. I know there have been a few others who have offered to help out some times, your offers have not been forgotten, as and when either Mick or myself will be in touch.
The opening day Triples went off in reasonable weather, which was a bonus, considering the forecast for the Sunday morning. In the event 27 played and several more collected cards, handbooks etc. for the new season. Before play started new Chairman Chris said a few words of thanks to all who had helped and with club Sponsor Rob from Camel Sand & Gravel in attendance the new shirts & jackets were given a airing (see picture below). A big thank you to Rob for his financial input for the new shirts, let’s hope they have a much success as the old ones!.
On the social front the quiz went well raising about £240 for club funds, once again it’s a pity a few more bowls club members (only 15 did bother) don’t support this event, but so many find some excuse. As has been noted on opening day, after the A V B and on our web site the date for the Race Night had to be changed due to circumstances beyond our control as they say, it is now on Sunday 7th May. So no excuses this time it’s just a bit of fun why not come along, have a laugh and a flutter and help raise some money for the Bowls Club at the same time.
Last Thursday we held our annual A team v B team with Fish & Chips to follow, it was not a great evening weather wise, but in the main the rain held off, but it was a bit chilly. All 5 rinks of Triples involving 30 players took part and with a few exceptions both Captains were pretty well supported by their players. As for the game it was a close affair which you may expect after all both teams are in the top division of the 2 bowl league, in the event the ‘A’ team did win but only by a small number of shots.
Members will see from our fixture list we have a friendly arranged against a touring team from West Mersey who will be heading home from a tour in Norfolk, we will be playing on Monday 3rd July in the afternoon, keep the day free if you can we have to find 16 players.
Sorry to have to report on a pre season injury, but Sue Peck has a broken shoulder, Sue managed to smash the shoulder up (pins everywhere on the X-ray) whilst diving out of the way of a runaway moped & rider whilst on holiday in Thailand. Sue hopes to be “fit” again by July, from all at Cali hope the healing process goes well and you make a full recovery.
Finally I am especially sad to report of the death (16th April) of Ray Love my dad, a very long standing member and former Chairman of California Bowls Club. From playing until a few seasons ago, to Greensman to which he was still involved, to Chairman until 2016 and a general supporter of the club and it standards. My dad was an integral part of our club and will be sorely missed by many, he had been suffering to a degree with ill health for sometime, matters worsened at the end of March to the extent he was hospitalised from which regretfully he never recovered. Secretary John conducted a minutes silence on the green in Ray’s memory before the A V B.
That’s it for now - all the best, Chris
Newsletter 2017/03 (13th June 2017)
The season got off to a cold dry start and then a few downpours and now we have hot and dry weather which is much more like it!
As for the bowling, league wise things have been going poorly, last years only winning league team the Fed Triples lost away first up then won then lost again. The two 2 bowl ‘A’ Division teams have only won 1 game out of 8 between them and that when they played each other. Ok it was possibly expected with our second team but not the first, in addition both Senior and Junior cups have lost, the former having won a game at home to Bramford then got stuffed by IBC away. The Junior cup however was a sad affair 12 players plus a couple of reserves, game starts reserves disappear, player suffers back injury, Cali play most of the game one short and lose by 5 shots. Lessons about at least one reserve staying need to be learnt, to make matters worse one of the reserves was holed up in the bar unbeknown to the Captain or teammates. On the subject of reserves again I've noticed a bit of a trend for a few members to regularly "cross off" when down as reserve, don't let it be you it’s just not on! Due to bye weeks, bad greens and bank holidays Stan’s Monday Samford team have had a very disjointed start to their campaign, the afternoon team have fared a little better. Our two BE teams have had contrasting fortunes, the Mixed Fours have played all 4 games away from home losing closely on a couple of occasions latterly by 1 shot, but the Men's side of things are reasonably placed in the league and are still involved in all 5 cups. What does it all mean? I personally think our results in the BE cups prove we can compete), but it’s no good splitting resources in our 2 bowl fed teams we are not strong enough. Whilst I accept this year is a one off, if we wish to compete at the top level (we are remember a competitive based club) we need our best players to be in 1 strong team much as we do for the BE cups.
Both codes in county competition rumble on, we have several left in the men’s Fed events, but most have at least 1more game to play to get through to the "areas". Less so in the BE ones, but in these the Allum family have been going well, with Deb & Steve through to the ¼ finals in the Mixed Pairs a year after going out first round as defending champions on the “plastic” of Felixstowe. In addition Christian is through to the ¼ finals of the CofC with a couple of wins including one over John Rednall no less. As for Ladies Fed Debbie Allum along with Ann & Pam have an Area semi final in the 3 Bowl Triples to play and in addition Debbie again and Ann have a Pairs to play at the same stage.
Off the field, the race night was fun again, but alas still only a minimal number of bowlers attended which is a pity, still it raised some money for the club, thanks to Ian and his helpers. We have a few injuries Sue Peck may well be out for the season with a shoulder problem, whilst Andy Catchpole is suffering with a long term back issue, in addition I now hear June Griffiths is in hospital, to all of you get well soon from all at the Cali. Sadly I also have to report the passing of 2 former members in Jack Jeffs & Roly Downing many of our longer serving members will be familiar with these two players of yester year.
Over the past few weeks we have had our share of match rearrangements due to weather, oppositions failing to raise a team, and in addition we have had to do a bit of fixture juggling to accommodate our own cup matches. So with all the regular scheduled league games, rearrangements and our cup commitments (2 Stan Wright and the Samford Cups teams start soon) we have plenty of games still to play. One extra game we are hosting a touring side from West Mersey early next month, the team will be posted shortly.
Last few items to report on, first once again all 3 of the Page family are heavily involved in the Fed County Team set up this year, well done to you all. Secondly the draws for our club competitions have been made and will be published shortly. Lastly and most importantly the quality of our green must be mentioned, I've played nowhere better this season and frankly many greens we have played are a disgrace, there is no excuse with all the dry weather for heavy greens, but they abound around this area. Mick and the other helpers must be applauded; most visiting players have been impressed, by our green which has been fast and excellent to play on. As always a massive amount of work is put in by Mick and others, yes you need a bit of luck with the weather, but in the main thanks Mick.
That’s all till next time when I hope our general league form improves
Chris
Newsletter 2017/04 (9th July 2017)
Regret to say as a club our poor league form has now transferred to the cups as well, losing both the Norton Cup v Rookery & the Quinton Bowl v Cornard by big margins. It difficult to say why, but in the Quinton we were missing 3 or 4 people who would have played if available. Speaking of my rink both Colin Gostling & Trevor Ward were excellent and did not deserve to be on the losing side. Also judging by many comments “the luck” was not on our side, but as we all know how however good you may be luck plays an important role. People often say luck evens it’s self out over a season, that may be so, but it’s when you get it. 5 down tight cup game last bowl in hand, high wide and not very handsome, clunk click sorry!, holding 1, thank you, that’s IMPORTANT. Or 20 to 7 up 2 ends to go in a league game, same set of circumstances with the bowl, that’s NOT IMPORTANT, but the luck has evened out!.
All that said our league form has been pretty poor, Mal’s Samford Afternoon and Deb’s Fed Triples are the exceptions, Mal’s team did pull off one massive surprise in winning 5 – 0 away on the Felixstowe carpet, all goes well for next their next visit in a couple of weeks time. The less said about both Tuesday teams the better although, Chris ‘B’ team did win their first game of the season away at Bramford. In the men’s Wednesday BE we do look like qualifying, but we cannot afford to many more slip ups. Stan’s Samford Monday team’s form is improving a bit, but to me the sets within the team are well out of balance to many eggs in one basket!. Again our Mixed Fours teams form is slowly improving and they do have the bulk of their games to play at home.
Picture Below, you may not believe it, but on the Felixstowe Carpet the 3 Red bowls nearest the Jack are our own Keith Bassett’s !, No seriously Keith’s been in excellent form and having watched that evening he had a super game. PS the picture was not set up it was as it happened.
As for the other cups in the ND4’s we went out at the 3rd round stage in an excellent game v Felixstowe & Suffolk’s main team by a very close 6 shots. The Bert Edward’s team continues to do the club proud reaching the semi finals once again this year where they now meet Melton, which will be one of 8 meetings between the clubs this season, who we also play in the BE Millennium. Both Stan Wright teams came through first round games unscathed, with Chris Wiseman’s crew doing especially well to defeat a decent Marlborough team. Both Samford Cup competitions are yet to start.
Our green has remained superb all year with just about the right amount of rain, a little luck and much hard work by Mick & Co., I’ve only heard positive comments from all and sundry. Indeed a first for Cali we hosted some neutral green Area Semi Finals of the Fed Ladies county comps and only last weekend hosted a ¼ final of the Quinton Bowl between 2 top clubs in F&S v IBC. I suppose the quality of the green in some ways does not help our home advantage, but all the same it’s good to hear those positive comments.
Turning to County Competitions, in the Fed world some of our Ladies did progress to the area stages with Pam Noble, Debbie Allum and Ann Baxter-Smith losing in the semi final of the Triples and Debbie & Ann going 1 stage further in the Pairs. As for the men they are a couple of stages behind and now play in the area semi stage to be held at Stone Lodge. Whilst the BE code have reached the County semi stage at Roundwood next Sunday, Christian Allum is in the CofC after a good win against Ashley Sale and in the Mixed Pairs Debbie & Steve Allum played and won in monsoon conditions at Borough of Eye.
Full list of events and qualifiers below :-
Ladies Area ‘C’ S/F
2 Bowl Triples
Pam Noble, Debbie Allum & Ann Baxter-Smith
Ladies Area ‘C’ Final
Pairs
Debbie Allum & Ann Baxter-Smith
Men's Area ‘C’ S/F
4 Bowl Singles
Gary Green
Pairs
Christian Allum & Chris Love
Mixed Triples
Debbie Bassett, Mick Page & Keith Bassett
Mixed Triples
Debbie Allum, Steve Allum & Christian Allum
Under 25’s Singles
Adam Page
Men’s BE County S/F
Champ of Champs
Christian Allum
Mixed Pairs
Debbie Allum & Steve Allum
Only last Monday we hosted a touring team from West Mersea who had been away for a long weekend in Norfolk, it’s not something we do very often at Cali, but when approached we try to help. By all accounts all went very well apart from a slightly errant weather forecast by myself and everybody seemed to enjoy the day. Lots of hard work by Di Catchpole, Julie Kennedy & Joyce Love for the catering and a special mention to Hanna & Maria for their handywork with Cup Cakes (buns to my generation) see picture below. We may have won the match convincingly but we “lost” the draw 7 – 1, anyway all in all a good day, thanks to those who played.
This year has been unbelievable for the number of rearrangements we have suffered, over the winter I had to move a few games to cope with clashes at home, but we have had a multitude of games cancelled through oppositions not being able to field a team. Only 2 call offs were weather related, the situation is now critical and should we have any more games off or cup games to fix its weekends or mid August just about.
Just a big reminder at this stage, our annual Charity day is looming large on the horizon, PLEASE PLEASE, bowlers get your names on the list to play, Ian needs 24 players as normal to make it work, don’t duck out offer to play!.
Lastly time to name and shame, I think only once before in over 30 years playing ‘A’ division bowls in Ipswich has a team entirely disappeared after a game with no socialising, yes a few never come in, but not a whole 12. Forget the excuses and the “slinkers” off without a word, shame on you all, after all it is in the end a social game. Why should we as a club patronise their club whilst they do not reciprocate, California Social Club might as well benefit from £60 over the bar when we play the offenders away rather than Ipswich & District’s bar and I reckon they need the money more that we do.
That’s all folk’s
Chris
Newsletter 2017/05 (7th August 2017)
Well the bulk of the County Competitions are over for 2017 and regretfully Cali didn’t win anything, a few close run things but no “pot of silver”. Near misses, Christian Allum in the BE Champ of Champs final 21 – 12 ended as Runner Up to the same player who won last year’s event Andrew Drummond from Otley. Other close calls were “The Allum’s” in the Fed Mixed Triples dipping out by a single shot 21 – 22 in the Semi Final and Gary Green also missing out by a single shot 20 – 21 in the 4 Bowl Singles, although that tells only a fraction of the story. Gary was 20 – 9 up against the afor mentioned Mr. Drummond when the proverbial wheel fell off, but according to those present it was not that Gary having a dip in form, but more some inspirational bowls and a chunk of good fortune for his opponent. Lastly on the subject of county competitions Adam Page & Mat Milam (Open Under 25’s Pairs) got back to final after last year’s success only to miss out on this occasion, regrettably for the boys concerned the subject of dress code reared its ugly head again, it helps NOBODY !, no more to be said at this time.
In league play with 1 game to go Debbie’s 3 Bowl Triples team have all but won the league for a second successive year after a hard fought 4 – 3 win at Westerfield and Mal’s Samford afternoonies are looking good for a divisional win despite a loss last week. In the Mixed Fours results have picked up a fair bit, until this week’s loss at Holywells (a very difficult place to win at), regretfully the turn round in form came a game or so too late. This has also been the case for both Ipswich 2 Bowl teams. The ‘A’ team have played much more like it recently and as for Chris’s ‘B’ team some of their performances of late have been nothing short of remarkable, wins at home v Norbridge & Kirton and a close 3 – 4 loss away at Marlborough, regretfully all too late. The less said about the Samford Monday evening league team the better, but both the K.O. Cup and Millennium teams are in at the semi final stage. We have had many fixture clashes this year virtually all of which are unavoidable, they often are on Monday & Friday evenings, normally we don’t have much trouble in fielding 2 teams i.e. Tuesday & Wednesday, but when they crop up on a Friday we do sometimes struggle. Members should understand if we “drop” a competition or league team in the future that’s it one less event with no viable alternative. Some members do rely on getting a game or second game in a Friday team, think of them and help out even if it is just occasionally. Many of our members do “help out” and I know our Captains are very thankful for that, but it’s just the few “never on a Friday crew” that is until it’s something they want to play in!. Last team to mention is the Men’s BE, in the league with a game to go a 5 -1 win v Melton will secure a playoff berth that’s if other results go against us. In the BE cups we play the Q/final at home v Margaret Catchpole this after a couple of hard fought wins away at Eye and Melton and best of all the after two disappointing losses v Ipswich & District in the last two BEF finals it was 3rd time lucky (not lucky at all really), with a 5 shot win. Well done to all concerned, I think everyone involved was “well up for it” as they say, this after the last two years heartache.
Steve Allum pictured receiving the Trophy from County President Bill Quinton.
Bert Edwards Fours Winners 2017 California
The game after the usual Cali poor start in lousy wet conditions turned when the sun came out and the green sped up. One rink Aidy Turner, Kevin French, Lee Powell & Skip Steve Allum played brilliantly and had a massive win. Brian Green’s rink was a very close affair (lost by 1 shot) and Keith (Bertie) Bassett’s rink got a bit a drubbing, but nearly as important as the big winning rink the 2 loosing rinks crucially won their last ends, just single shot’s, but what a big difference it meant to those playing the last end. The last cup to mention is the Stan Wright team (Chris’s) who will be playing a semi final this coming week v Bramford ‘A’ good luck to all the cup and league sides who still have something to play for.
Last few items to report on, best of luck to Ian Page who will be playing in the Adams Trophy final at Skegness later this month and to members Keith Bassett & Phil Bradley for being part of a successful Area ‘C’ Marie Denny side in 2017. Thanks to all those who were involved in another successful Charity Pairs Day, whether playing, organising, helping or just plain supporting thanks to one and all, (details / pictures of the day to be found elsewhere on this web site). Lastly yet more thanks to those who continue to keep our green in excellent order
That’s all folk’s
Chris
Newsletter 2017/06 (30th September 2017)
Well that’s the season done and dusted, with all the fixture cancellations Merv did a grand job with the club competitions, all finals played on the weekend and this with the clubs involvement in the BE Millennium Final stages. I know a few people were scratched and obviously a few members were not best pleased, but I’m sure all parties had opportunities to play those games before being eliminated. A full list of our winners is on the web site not surprisingly under the “Club comp results” tab, let’s hope you can all attend our prize presentation on the 23rd November, catering as per usual, entertainment “Jim Bob”.
As for the season much talk of lack of success, but just have a think, although no individuals won county competitions we did have a couple of runners up, plus some losing county semi finalists. We won the Fed Triples League for the second year running and won a section in the Samford Afternoon League well done to all who played. In addition 2 runners up spots in a couple of charity Cups namely the Stan Wright & Samford KO, then add in wins in a couple of “Big” events namely the BE Bert Edwards Fours and late on in the season the BE Millennium, would we have taken that in May? I think many would, yes as always we could have done even better especially in some leagues, but there are only so many “pots” to win and I suggest we had a good share compared with most in 2017 !.
The win in the Millennium was especially satisfying not because of who we beat, namely obvious rivals Norbridge in the semi final, but then Cornard who had stuffed us earlier in the season in the Quinton, in the final. No that was not the main reason (but let’s face it, it did help) the main reason should be seen as in a difficult format i.e. a point a rink for the 5 events everybody contributed on the day, each discipline won at least once. The Triples starred with Brian Green, Ian Wiseman & Kevin Halls winning in both morning and afternoon sessions, the latter being a very exciting extra end win with a ditched jack in the final.
As usual at this time of year its AGM season, with many meetings to attend, also work is required to renovate our green which we hope to maintain at the same high standard as in 2017. Thanks on the green front especially to Mick Page and all who helped and continue to do so, without help it would be an impossible task.
Finally a couple of reminders, our AGM is on the 16th November, agendas etc. will be out early in the month and our Dinner & Prize giving is 23rd November, the list for tickets is up in the club for members and their guests to put names and numbers on .
That’s all folk’s
Chris
Newsletter 2017/07 (29th November 2017)
Heading towards the end of the year now, so that can only mean Cali AGM’s then dinner and prize giving. Turning to our club AGM first, on our committee we have all the usual admin positions and luckily for us all the incumbents from 2017 agreed to stay on which gives the club a great deal of stability and all our members should be grateful for that. The rest of our committee is made up of captains, now that’s an entirely different story, year on year clubs we meet throughout the course of the season and time after time it’s the same captain. Of our 7 captains some have served a few years, but with our 2 strongest squads it is nearly always 1 or 2 years as captain then retire, which to a certain extent is unfortunate as it’s not as if these team are not successful. On the flip side however often new captains bring new ideas which can be a good thing, I’m just puzzled why so many successful captains then quit. After a bit of arm twisting and even a ballot all the captaincy rolls were filled so we can move on to next year. Other than that the AGM was a pretty straight forward affair, as Chairman I was told by several members we would be “in for a long night” this proved to be way off the mark we even finished a quarter of hour earlier than last year!!
The dinner and prize giving saw just under 70 people in attendance, all the club competition winners excluding one on the sick list were there to receive their prizes, which is especially good as all the events were again sponsored this year. Special thanks to all who contributed in that regard, along with all those who helped with the set up, tidy away and on the day in general. As usual the meal was of a high standard and the entertainment “Jim Bob” to my ears was equally good, one or two over indulged and probable now wished they had not. We even had one gentleman who decided to check how tall / short he was when measured against a table on the floor, he of course insisted he had only had 2 drinks by that stage in the evening, the jury’s out on that if you know the person concerned. Talking about Mick Page (oops!) this year we had a new perpetual trophy, “Member of the year” donated to the bowls club by Ian Page, in memory of our late long serving former Chairman Ray Love. The new award was fully supported by Ray’s family and was voted on by members of the club. Mick has done sterling work with our green and surrounds for many years, but this year I believe the green was the best it has ever been and the award must have reflected Mick’s efforts. The Page family made it a clean sweep of the awards voted on by members, with Ian Page collecting the “Player of the year” award for the first time. (Pictures to follow).
As I mentioned above our green in 2017 was excellent and yes Mick’s is the “main man” but there were many other people who helped in all aspects of running the club from the green, to admin, to captaincy, to catering, to gardens etc. etc. and as I said at the AGM if you do help thank you very much for all you do, for those who are unable to help I trust you fully appreciated the efforts of those who do.
Regretfully we have 3 or 4 members who are not that well or injured at the present, to all of you, the best wishes of all at Cali go out to you at this time, to one and all get well soon we look forward to seeing you out and about again shortly.
As always, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all Cali members and their family’s early compliments of the upcoming season and roll on April when we will be back on the green in the cold and wet!
That’s all folk’s
Chris