The Innellan Carpet Bowling Club was buzzing with excitement as they held the Royal Bar Trophy competition for the first time since 2019.
With ten teams entered, the event brought together both seasoned bowlers and newcomers, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the club hall.
A special thank you was extended to visiting teams from Strathlachlan, Colintraive, and Kilmun carpet bowling clubs, who entered four triples and also provided one extra player to join Strathlachlan’s team.
The club noted the absence of Joe Campbell, who was missed by all.
The competition featured some high-level bowling, with many games being decided in the final moments.
The two teams that made it through to the final were:
Donny & Anne MacPhail and Colin Steedman (Colintraive and Innellan)
Pam Horton, Robin McNair and Alastair Fraser (Kilmun and Strathlachlan)
In a thrilling final, Donny’s team just managed to get the better of the tricky conditions on Table four, narrowly securing victory.
It was an exciting match for the spectators, who were treated to a display of skill and sportsmanship.
The winners, Donny, Anne, and Colin, were congratulated for their superb performance, while the runners-up also earned praise.
Special recognition went to Pam Horton, a newcomer to carpet bowling, who stepped in to help her team at the last minute and made a strong contribution throughout the competition.
The evening also featured a raffle, with thanks to everyone who donated prizes and bought tickets.
A highlight of the night was the buffet, expertly prepared by Carrie O’Brien, who single-handedly managed to turn an assortment of baking donations into a beautiful spread.
Her efforts were met with much appreciation.
Club President Duncan Lauder took the opportunity to thank all participants, volunteers, and supporters.
He also presented the Royal Bar Trophy to the winning team, marking a successful and enjoyable event for all involved.
A final word of thanks went to the visiting teams who helped with the quick dismantling of the tables, with the process completed faster than ever before.
In closing, the club sent their best wishes to Alexandra Atkins, one of their members, who was recently injured in a fall on the ice.
Alexandra broke her elbow and underwent surgery at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley.
The club reported that the operation went well, and everyone wished her a speedy recovery.
It was a memorable night for all, filled with great bowling, good company, and plenty of community spirit.
The Innellan Carpet Bowling Club looks forward to hosting the Royal Bar Trophy again next year.
