The Aim Of The Game
To get your bowls nearer the jack than your opponent. You score one point for each bowl nearer the jack.
Equipment
Bowls (Or Woods)
The bowl usually has an indent or dimple allowing the player to identify the bias or Thumb side.
Two per person.
Bowls have a bias (also known as a ‘peg’) which determines the direction in which the bowl will travel.
You can roll (deliver) a bowl with the bias (Thumb) or against the bias (Finger). Thumb bowls curve to the right, Finger bowls curve to the left.
Note: if you are a left-handed bowler, this will be reversed.
The Jack & The Footer (Or Mat)
The jack is a smaller bowl which is sent first and is the target. The jack also has a bias. The player delivering the jack must declare whether they are bowling Thumb or Finger.
To ensure the jack and bowls are sent from the same spot, you must place one foot on a mat and keep it there until the jack or bowl has left your hand
How To Play
A full game comprises a number of ends. An end is where the jack is rolled first. The player sending the jack can choose to send it wherever they like on the green. Players then take it in turns to roll each of their bowls towards the jack, starting with the player who delivered the jack. An end finishes when all bowls have been delivered. Players decide whose and how many of their bowls are nearer the jack. The winner delivers the jack at the start of the next end.
Download the full Laws Of The Game
clothing
Flat-soled, closed shoes are required. Hard block-heeled or open-toed footwear is not allowed.
For social bowling, there are no uniform requirements.
For competitive bowling, members usually wear a polo shirt with a club logo and trousers. The colours are chosen by the Club
