Elmwood Lawn Bowling Club

Club Location

17.5 Edward Street

Email

elmwoodclub@gmail.com

Understanding Lawn Bowls: A Gentle Sport of Precision

Lawn bowls is a strategic outdoor game that combines skill, accuracy, and tactical thinking. Here’s everything you need to know about this classic sport.

 

Basic Equipment

  • Bowls: Each player uses 2-4 weighted balls (called bowls) that are slightly asymmetrical
  • Jack: A smaller white ball that serves as the target
  • Playing surface: A well-maintained grass or artificial bowling green

Objective of the Game

The main goal is to roll your bowls so they stop as close as possible to the jack. The player or team with bowls nearest to the jack wins the end.

 

Key Rules

  • Players must deliver bowls from within a designated mat area
  • Bowls must be released below waist height
  • The jack must travel at least 23 meters and stay within the rink boundaries
  • Players take turns bowling, alternating between teams

Scoring

Points are awarded at the completion of each “end” (when all players have delivered their bowls). One point is given for each bowl that is closer to the jack than the opponent’s nearest bowl.

 

Game Formats

  • Singles: One player versus another
  • Pairs: Two players per team
  • Triples: Three players per team
  • Fours: Four players per team (also known as “rinks”)

Tips for Beginners

  • Practice your delivery technique to achieve consistency
  • Learn to read the bias (curve) of your bowls
  • Start with shorter jack lengths while learning
  • Watch experienced players to learn strategy

Ready to roll? Join our Learn to Bowl program today and discover the joy of this classic sport under expert guidance.

 

Remember, lawn bowls is a sport that welcomes players of all ages and abilities. While the rules are straightforward, mastering the game takes practice and patience.