The Lawn Bowl

• Lawn Bowls and Its Evolution:
  • Originally crafted from carved hardwood, the lawn bowl (sometimes called a “wood” in certain countries) has undergone quite the transformation. Nowadays, it’s typically made from molded plastic and comes in an array of sizes and colors.
  • A full set comprises four bowls, each of which plays a crucial role in singles matches. However, when it comes to team matches, the number of bowls in play varies:
    • Pairs Game: Each player uses four bowls.
    • Triples: Each player has three bowls.
    • Teams of Four: In this format, players wield two bowls each.
• The Curious Case of Bias:
  • Here’s where things get interesting! Each bowl is intentionally wider on one side, creating a delightful curve known as the bias.
  • Instead of rolling in a straight line, the bias causes the bowl to gracefully follow a curved path across the green.
  • Depending on the playing surface and personal preference, players might opt for a wider or narrower curve.
• The Art of Precision:
  • Lawn bowls is all about precision. The ultimate goal? To deliver your bowl with just the right weight and line, aiming to get it closest to the jack.
  • It’s a delightful blend of strategy, skill, and camaraderie. So, next time you step onto the green, remember: it’s not just about rolling a ball—it’s about mastering the art of the curve! 

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​The Delivery

1. Foot Placement:
   • When you’re ready to send that bowl gliding across the green, make sure you have at least one foot on the mat.
   • Upon releasing the bowl, keep one foot either on the mat or above its surface. It’s like a little dance move with your feet and the mat!
2. The Art of Curving:
   • Now, let’s talk curves! If you’re right-handed:
     • Forehand: Use the bias of the bowl to curve it to the left. Imagine guiding it like a gentle arc.
     • Backhand: For a right-to-left curve, release the bowl with finesse.
   • Left-handed players, just flip those terms around!
3. Smooth Release:
   • Deliver the bowl underarm, aiming for a clean and silky-smooth release.
   • Picture it: your bowl gliding effortlessly, like a swan on a serene pond.

Remember, it’s all about finding that sweet spot—the right weight, the perfect line, and a touch of finesse. Happy bowling!

Scoring

• Winning an End:
  • The player or team with the bowl closest to the jack wins the end. Simple, right?
  • Points are awarded for each bowl that’s closer to the jack than the opposing team’s closest bowl.
• Measuring Devices and Tiebreakers:
  • Sometimes, it’s a close call! Measuring devices come into play to determine which bowls are closest.
  • If bowls from opposing teams are exactly the same distance from the jack, no points are awarded.
  • Occasionally, everyone’s closest bowls are tied—like a friendly standoff. In this case, the end is tied, and no points are given.
• The Bigger Picture:
  • Matches can be played to a predetermined number of ends, sets, points scored, or even based on time played.
  • It’s all about finding your own winning formula! So, whether you’re aiming for a set number of ends or chasing points, enjoy the game and may your bowls roll true! 

Please Note: Step 8 has an exception to it.  Your coach will explain it to you.