Memorial bowls tournament raises R7k for charity
What began as a tribute to a respected club member has grown into a meaningful tradition for the local bowling community.
The sound of bowls rolling across the greens at Honeydew Bowling Club (HBC) on March 7 carried more than just the spirit of competition.
It marked a day of remembrance and generosity as the club hosted its 12th annual Allen Lewis-Williams memorial tournament and helped raise R7 000 for the SA Guide-Dogs Association (Sagda).
The tournament honours the memory of the former club member, Allen Lewis-Williams, who passed away in 2011 at the age of 60. His brother Joss Lewis-Williams started and sponsors this event as a way to celebrate his life while supporting a cause close to the family’s heart.
A total of 78 bowlers from clubs across the region took part in the day’s competition, and despite heavy rain in the days leading up to the event, players were welcomed by clear skies and well-prepared greens. Participants competed across three rounds of play, balancing friendly rivalry with the camaraderie that defines the local bowling community.
At the end of the competition, top honours went to Mike and Lynne Marnewick and Heeren Maharaj from HBC. In a touching moment, the winners received the trophy from Jolene Breman, who is the daughter of the late Lewis-Williams, together with Joss’s wife, Linda.
True to the tournament’s foundation, the funds raised during the day were presented to Pieter van Niekerk, head of public relations at Sagda. Additional contributions included R1 000 from Maraisburg Bowling Club and a R2 000 pledge from Krugersdorp Bowling Club.
In recognition of the club’s continued support, HBC also received a Certificate of Appreciation from the association, which was accepted by club president Mike Marnewick.
According to one of the club’s representatives, Orla Guilfoyle, the day was made possible with support from local sponsors. The club’s kitchen team was also appreciated for their efforts in ensuring players were well looked after with sandwiches, a build-a-burger lunch and snacks after the prize-giving.
Orla shared that the club is currently inviting new players to try the sport through an introductory offer of R400 for three months, which includes coaching from experienced players and the use of lawn bowls.
The club is available for function hire and barefoot bowls events. For more information, residents can contact head coach and functions co-ordinator Rod Gray on 082 921 6115.
