Major lawn bowling tournament comes to the region

The Canadian team was one of four lawn bowling teams that competed at the recent Atlantic International Challenge events held at the Windsor Lawn Bowling Club. Teams from Ireland, the United States and Scotland also participated.

A major lawn bowling tournament came through the area last month.

The Windsor Lawn Bowling Club hosted the Atlantic International Challenge Sept. 20-24.  This was the first time in 30 years that Canada has hosted a tournament. Teams came in from Canada, the United States, Ireland and Scotland competing for a team championship.  

Upwards of 40 players came to the Windsor Lawn Bowling Club to participate. Club president Wayne Wright pointed out it was a five-day tournament, followed by a pro-am the next couple of days. He noted Zehrs was a major sponsor.

“It probably took us a year in planning to put together,” explained Wright. “It’s in Ireland next year.”

The Atlantic International Challenge was in Scotland in 2024 and Wright said there was representation from the area at that. They were able to secure Windsor as the host of the 2025 event.

“It’s a big deal,” he said. “The players had a lovely time. It’s a world class venue. It’s all volunteer. We have no paid help here.”

Canada brought their top female player, Kelly McKerihan, who was previously ranked number one in the world and is currently ranked seventh.  They also brought their top male player, Ryan Bester, who is also ranked in the top 10 and is a world champion. 

The Windsor Lawn Bowling Club has about 120 members and is located just off of McDougall Ave., adjacent to Jackson Park.

For more information, please visit www.wlbc.ca. 

Major lawn bowling tournament comes to the region

By Ron Giofu