The Canning Cup 2026. Outstanding.
Updated: Sep 4
The following report (italics) was kindly provided by Simon Hamer, our Chairman.
Monday, 31 August had arrived. The annual Canning Cup, our traditional end-of-season contest between the ladies and the men, was enjoyed by all who took part - although we had a slightly worrying start with the weather:
12.50 p.m. Rain!
But things improved and the two squads gathered for the traditional photo in front of the clubhouse.
Sue, our President didn’t disappoint with one of her specially penned pre-match rallying poems:
Gary then explained there had been huge demand from members wanting to play in 'The Canning'. The green had been set up to accommodate its maximum of eight rinks with sixteen teams of four players. Because so many members wanted to take part, some teams had more than four players, with substitutions made after nine ends.
Score cards were handed out and teams and starting rinks confirmed.
The teams gather up their gear.
The match was played throughout in a wonderful spirit, with friendly but competitive games taking place across the green.
The weather becomes a worry again.
The green was damp from the rain, leaving it vulnerable to damage. Before play began, players had been asked to decide for themselves whether groundsheets would be needed. To everyone’s credit, they were in place on all rinks by about 2.30 p.m.
To be or not to be. Bad weather or good?
Excellent. It's good.
An early 'Hi Five'.
Getting down to it.
The angst of a measure.
The joy of a good wood.
A different perspective can be very helpful.
The early stage of a signal for 'three'
(for the Gentlemen).
And this time it's a clear 'three' for the Ladies.
The afternoon shadows begin to lengthen.
As play continues unabated.
Ends are won and lost by millimetres.
Could this start a trend?
It's time to hold on to your hat and hope...
The final stages of the match are played with
the same determination as the beginning.
And it's over for 2026. Handshakes all round.
Congratulations go to the men, who emerged victorious this year and claimed the Canning Cup.
Following the match, members gathered in the clubhouse...
...where Helen Hamer and her team of volunteer helpers had prepared a spectacular deli buffet.
The quality and presentation of the food were outstanding and helped create a truly special atmosphere, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy each other's company after the bowling had finished.
The Chairman presents 'The Canning Cup' to the Gentlemen's Captain
who receives it with thanks on behalf of the men.
On behalf of the Club, sincere thanks go to Helen and her helpers, and indeed to all the volunteers who contributed their time and effort to make the day such a success. Events such as the Canning Cup are only possible because of their dedication, and their hard work helped make this a memorable and special occasion for everyone involved.”
Simon Hamer,
Club Chairman
Editor/photographer: Jeff Jaycock