Association Flag Unfurling 2023

President Tom Evans unfurled our Association Flag at Antrim Lawn Bowling Club last Friday evening 14th April, thereby officially opening the 2023 season.

Accompanying Tom in above picture are from L/R, Lorna Barkley, Lady President Antrim Lawn BC, President Tom Evans, Alderman Stephen Ross, Mayor of Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council, Bill Galloway President Irish Bowling Association (Belmont BC), Frank Devlin President of the newly formed Irish Lawn Bowls Association (formally the Bowling League of Ireland) (Bray BC), Robin Donaghy President NI Provincial Bowling Association (City of Derry BC), John Millar President NI Private Greens Bowling League (Old Bleach BC), Mike Clewer President Antrim Lawn BC and Michael Wallace CEO Stairlift Solutions Sponsor of NIBA Leagues & Championships competitions.

The ceremony commenced with Antrim Lawn President Mike Clewer welcoming everyone to the Antrim Club and graciously handed over the green to the NIBA for the evening. Alderman Stephen Ross reiterated Mike’s welcome and considered it a great honour to be invited, and highlighted the importance which bowls played in the wellbeing of the community.

Last year’s President Thomas Hanna from Warrenpoint BC, then dutifully handed over the Association Flag to President Tom, who graciously accepted and unfurled the Flag after a short speech.

Unfortunately, the customary challenge game of bowls was cancelled due to the adverse weather conditions and a completely flooded green. However, this hiccup in proceeding did not deter those present from enjoying the rest of the evening, with an excellent meal in the Ramble Inn, followed by the customary speeches and presentations. A rendering of ‘Happy Birthday’ was sung to George Brown, long standing member of Antrim Lawn who’s 91st birthday was the following day

NIBA wish to thank the members of the Antrim Lawn BC and indeed all those involved for their hospitality and companionship, which was very much appreciated by all your Guests.