The World Championship

If there is anything that will prove that lawn bowling is not a stoggy sport that’s only played by retirees, it’s the World Championship. The World Championship in lawn bowling is much like the Olympics in that lawn bowling organizations (which are usually represented as countries) send their best to represent them and try for medals and, the event is held every four years.

The event first began in Australia in 1966 and it was just at the 2008 World Championships that men and women competed together. Lawn bowling organizations, such as Bowls Australia, first hold national competitions to determine which players they will send to the World Championships. Each organization is represented by 5 players who will play first as singles and fours, and then will play as pairs and triples. The top three winners of each category are awarded a gold, silver, or bronze medal and the best 5-player team will also win an award. For men, this is called the Leonard Trophy and for women it’s called the Taylor Trophy. 

The last lawn bowling World Championships was held in Christchurch, New Zealand in 2008 and the next event will take place in Adelaide, Australia from November 24, 2012 to December 9, 2012.

Proper Attire for Lawn Bowling

Lawn bowling is considered to be a proper sport, especially when it’s played in competition and as such, there is a proper dress code that is required. Generally, if one remembers to wear all white or all cream, this will be appropriate but there are some specifics you may want to take into consideration.

Men and women both must wear white or cream slacks and a white or cream shirt. Shorts are permitted but if they are not an appropriate length, white or cream knee-socks must also be worn. Cardigans, jackets, and pullovers may be worn however, these too must also be white or cream-colored. Men can wear a hat if they so choose, as long as it’s white or cream in color and ladies are required to wear a white or cream-colored hat. Both men and women must wear white or cream-colored shoes with a rubber, non-skidding sole.

This dress code is generally only set in place during formal competition and of course, if you’re having a quick game in the yard with the kids or setting up the course during a family BBQ, feel free to play as you are!