Brenda’s Bowls Story
For many people, lawn bowls is something they’ve seen in passing but never actually tried. That was certainly true for Brenda Smith, who first discovered the game completely by chance while on holiday many years ago.
“We were on holiday with our children at The Devon Coast Country Club in Paignton in the late 80s or early 90s,” Brenda recalls. “As you do on holiday, we joined in with some of the club competitions. I had never played bowls before and didn’t know the first thing about it!”
After a quick practice session with her husband, Brenda was hooked — even if they “got it totally wrong” to begin with. Once home, she started looking for a club to join and eventually became a member of a club in Plumstead after her husband’s original club closed.
“I joined the ladies section and haven’t looked back since,” she says. “I’ve now been playing for nearly 26 years.”
Over the years, Brenda discovered that bowls is much more than just a sport.
“I found bowls to be an extremely social game,” she explains. “There’s nothing nicer than being out on the green on a sunny day, with the only sound being the click of the woods during a game. It’s so peaceful.”
After moving to the area, Brenda and her husband joined Orpington Excelsior Bowls Club at the recommendation of a neighbour and have remained members ever since.
Today, Brenda regularly plays in both league and friendly matches and still enjoys the thrill of competition.
“It’s always a good feeling when you win,” she says, “but we always make sure to thank our opponents for the game and the company afterwards. That’s important too.”
One of the things Brenda values most is the welcoming atmosphere at the club.
“Everyone helps everyone else, especially new members who may never have played before — just like me all those years ago. We all have to start somewhere.”
If you’ve ever thought about trying bowls, why not give it a go? Whether you’re completely new to the sport or returning after many years away, new members are always welcome at Orpington Excelsior Bowls Club.