While this influx of junior bowlers, those in the 20 to 35 age bracket, has lifted the profile of the sport at the national level, the challenge now for many bowling clubs is to attract the middle aged, the 35 to 60 year age group.

Soldiers Point Bowling Club has recognised the age gap and in effort to introduce the sport to this demographic it has organised a social tournament to run over four consecutive Thursday evenings.

The business house/sports club bowls challenge will take place under lights and under cover at the bowling club’s greens starting on Thursday, October 18 and continuing until November 8.

Bowls director Terry Antram said the tournament is open to all business and sporting groups across Port Stephens and to people of all ages.

“We are hoping to capture anyone who has ever thought of trying the game for the first time, as well as those interested in learning a little more about lawn bowls,” Antrum said.

“We will have experienced bowlers helping out and there will be a barbecue and prizes to provide a fun, social atmosphere.”

Antrum, also Soldiers Point Bowling Club’s pennant skipper and a former NSW and Australian representative, said the feedback so far had been positive.

“We have a few teams confirmed and we are hopeful we can attract more people from the sporting clubs the SPBC sponsors,” he said. “Essentially we want to invite those people that have supported us and those that we have supported over the years.”

Teams will consist of three players who can be interchanged over the four week challenge, and all games of 15 ends will start at 6pm and finish by 8pm.

A courtesy bus is also available for pick-ups and drop-offs.

More information can be obtained at bowls@soldierspointbc.com.au or by contacting Antram on (02) 4982 7173.