A contestant representing the Falkland Islands in this year’s Commonwealth Games was able to get some invaluable practice in Plympton before setting off for the games in Birmingham.
Plympton Bowling Club member Chris Locke, who now lives in the Falkland Islands, returned to the UK in July to undertake final training for the Commonwealth Games.
Bowling in the Falkland Islands is a relatively new sport but the opportunity to send a small bowls team to the 2022 Commonwealth Games became a possibility despite the lack of any dedicated facilities.
Chris said the club on the Falklands makes use of the main school corridor, which is the longest usable covered area in Stanley. Four separate mats are rolled out and then stuck together with tape to make a rink. He added:
“We can only practice after school hours but are lucky to have somewhere to train. However, playing on grass is very different to playing on our mats and this is why being able to practice on Plympton Bowling Club’s green has been fantastic.”
Chris continued:
“Colin Way, the club secretary, has been amazing at helping me make full use of the facility. Being able to practice each day has made a huge difference. Everybody at the club has been very friendly and supportive, however I particularly want to thank Peter Stapleton, club coach and a former county player, for the many hours he has spent coaching me. Taking part in the Commonwealth Games is a huge privilege and although the Falklands are unlikely to medal, just being part of the event and meeting world class athletes will be a lifetime experience.”
The Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games took place on July 28 and the first of the bowls matches started the following day. Chris took part in the men’s doubles and singles. Sadly he didn’t win, but as he said it’s the taking part that counts.
(Story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
