February 2019 | Volume 3, Number 2

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Open Letter from Ken Simpson - AGM and Elections

February-10-19

 

Ontario Lawn Bowling Association has been an integral part of Ontario's history for well over 100 years, currently with its membership of over 6,700 members and 120 Clubs throughout Ontario.

 

As the outgoing President, I welcome all members to be part of the OLBA's new strategic five-year plan, to improve our sport for many years to come.

 

Our clubs & their members are a valued asset to their communities from the volunteer gardeners,

To the endless hours of work by their greens keepers, kitchen helpers, tournament organizers or volunteering on your own board of directors.

 

As per our OLBA Mission & Goals, the OLBA is here to assist’s all member clubs with the Business of Lawn Bowling!

Currently we have 6,700 members that report directly to their own club Board of Directors, the 120 Member Clubs then reporting to 16 District Chairpersons who report quarterly + the 23 OLBA Volunteer Committees reporting monthly to the OLBA Board of Directors.

 

We are reaching out to all our membership, and your expertise to assist our sport and all clubs in Ontario.

 

The 23 OLBA Committees " the cylinders that drivers the OLBA engine", are asking for your volunteer assistance!

This is a great way for any club member's to contribute to their own club.

· life-work-business-management-leadership-bowling-teaching-marketing-sponsorship-communication-governance skills to a Committee

· and to new young bowlers! It looks great on a resume that you volunteer & to further your business & educational skills

· donation of time varies from 2 hours per year to 2 hours a week, “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.”

· an opportunity to give back to the Sport of Bowls they love!

 

All committee chairs welcome additional volunteers on their committees, if you know of a fellow bowler that comes to mind, they can email the committee chair's direct from the webpage

 

The OLBA Board of Directors Elections Saturday April 27th 2019 AGM

There are several positions available, those seeking an interest in being part of the Board of Directors of OLBA Contact Ken Armstrong Nominations Chair kenarmstrong@look.ca for more information to put your name forward or recommend a fellow member we should approach.

 

As we approach the AGM, Election News positions available, nominations accepted etc.

will also be posted OLBA Website, OLBA Facebook & the OLBA Newsletter

 

Reminder each club is entitled to 1 vote @ the AGM for the Board of Director positions.

 

We have inherited the wonderful sport of bowls from our ancestors and we have an obligation to pass it on to the next generation in as good or better condition than we received it.

 

Ken Simpson

President Ontario Lawn Bowls Association

 

Serving on the OLBA Board

 

When I was 15 years old, my first club in Cornwall, Ontario had a jacket hanging on wall in a glass case. I asked about it and the other members told me that was the OLBA Jacket of Eubald Rouleau who had been president of the OLBA Men’s section in 1962. They were very proud that one of their own members had served as president of the Association and had contributed to the sport at the highest levels for over 10 years. We used to joke that the secondary reason that he was part of the OLBA board was so that he had an excuse to go the racetrack in Toronto while he was there. We knew though about the contribution that he made. We also remembered that he pulled a $5,000 cheque out of his pocket when the club’s roof had been damaged by a storm in the early 1960s and it was not covered by the insurance. He was our “local hero”.

Serving on the OLBA board and on OLBA committees allows you to shape the direction and future of lawn bowling in Ontario. Consider running for the board or volunteering for an OLBA committee. Speaking as someone who has sat on the board for 3 periods over a 34 year time span, you can make a difference.

Our sport is at a crucial crossroads as we transition to becoming a modern, professional sports organization. Be part of the solution and our future.

Contact our Nominating Chair – Ken Armstrong kenarmstrong@look.ca

to find out about our opportunities and what the future might hold for you.

Conveners wanted for OLBA Playdowns

Contact Tom Roth - roth@olba.ca if you are able to be a convener at any of the following events.

Youth Singles

Cobourg LBC, July 6 & 7, 2019

 

Singles

Agincourt LBC, June 22 & 23, 2019

 

Novice Singles

Men at Richmond Hill LBC

Women at Stouffville LBC on day-1, September 21,

2019 Finals at Richmond Hill LBC September 22, 2019 

 

Pairs

Men at the Dresden LBC

Women at Tilbury LBC on day-1, June 29, 2019

Pairs finals at Dresden LBC June 30,2019

 

Mixed Pairs

Woodstock LBC, July 27 & 28, 2019

 

Novice Triples

Kingston LBC, August 24 & 25, 2019

 

Senior Triples

Windsor LBC, July 9 & 10, 2019

 

Open Fours

Oshawa LBC, June 8 & 9,2019 (June 7 may be added -dependent on entries)

 

Indoor Qualifier

The convener for the Indoor Qualifier at James Gardens will be Ralph Ellis on September 28 and 29.

17 OLBA clubs have already been approved for New Horizons grants totalling $414,000. 20 clubs are still awaiting the results of their application. Will your club be the one to receive up to $25,000 to build and promote your club? 

Contact Ralph Ellis ellis@olba.ca

416-804-3214

to start the process. 

Nominating Chair Named for OLBA AGM Elections

 

Elections to the OLBA board take place at our AGM on April 27 in the Woodstock at Quality Hotel & Suites Woodstock, 580 Bruin Blvd, Woodstock.

Our Nominations Chair is Ken Armstrong

kenarmstrong@look.ca

who is the District Chair for District 9. 

Watch for details about our election process and open positions. 

 

 

Annual Photo Contest Winner

Congratulations to Isabelle Dobbing of Iroquois LBC - her winning photo will appear on the cover of the 2019 Annual

Highland Park LBC in Ottawa Needs Your Help

After 105 years of providing our Ottawa community with ways to keep active and socially connected, the Highland Park Lawn Bowling Club in Ottawa is threatened with possible extinction due to a rapid deterioration of our 50+ year old clubhouse and a lack of funds to repair or rebuild it. A major cause of this circumstance has been a quadrupling of our property taxes over the past two years; a situation we have been contesting without success to date.

However, even if we succeed in this taxation appeal, a minimum of approximately $250,000 will be required to repair/renovate our aging “cottage in the city”, shown below snuggled down for the winter. Our members are contributing generously, fund raising events are being held and appeals have been made to all levels of government for assistance.

Any help from our fellow bowlers in Ontario will be appreciated greatly.

To facilitate donations we have opened “Project 104, Clubhouse Replacement” with the National Sport Trust Fund-Ontario (NSTF-O) through which funds can be directed to this cause resulting in “Donations and Gifts” income tax receipts. Our website “highlandparklawnbowling.ca” provides access to the NSTF-O website and this project.

Please direct any suggestions for additional fund raising possibilities or questions regarding this appeal to Douglas McGregor, President, HPLBC at douglasmcgregor@mail.com.

We look forward to yet another 100+ years of serving our community in the west end of Ottawa – with your help!

Meet Donna

The Grand Lady of the Boulingrin

 

When you mention the name Donna around the lawn bowling green in Burlington, you don’t need to add a last name. Everyone knows Donna.

Donna McFadden, the grand lady of Lawn Bowls and life-time member of the Burlington Lawn Bowling Club, was honoured last season for her 65+ years of contribution and participation in the sport of Bowls.

In reality, Donna’s contact with bowls goes back farther than the 50’s. She was weaned on the game as her parents were avid bowlers when she was growing up in London, Ontario.

So was a handsome young man, Barry McFadden, a winner at bowls and also of Donna’s heart. Barry first picked up a bowl at age 15, and never put it down. As Donna told me, “If I wanted to spend time with Barry, I better learn to lawn bowl.“

They wed in 1952, and shortly thereafter moved to Etobicoke.

Her first tournament was played that same year, at the Old Mill in Toronto, and she has many albums holding decades of bowling memories to prove it.

In the mid 1950’s the City took back the Old Mill property after almost 50 years in this location, for the development of a second subway line for the Bloor Danforth route.

The McFadden’s? – Well, they just packed up their bowls and moved to an interim spot at the West Toronto Lawn Bowling Club, before joining in the negotiations to establish a new club within the James Garden park.

On opening day in 1969, Barry and Donna were there as founding members.

 

With three children, born within the first four years of marriage, Barry did most of the bowling.

 

He won his first Provincial championship at age 20 and went on to win several Provincial, National, Commonwealth and U.S. championships.

 

Over a span of 10 years, as the Country’s ambassador and competitor on the International scene, Barry represented Canada in Australia, New Zealand, Scotland and the U.S.A.

 

With her parents’ babysitting help, Donna traveled the world with him, as his good luck charm.

 

Sadly, Donna, and the world of lawn bowls lost Barry in 1992, to a brain tumor at the age of 59.

 

For the next decade, Donna and family, hosted his memorial tournament at the Burlington club. – the exquisite McFadden Memorial Trophy is still on display in the club’s trophy cabinet.

 

A remarkable lady, and a bowler of consequence in her own right.

 

As well as winning too many open tournaments and club championships to count, Donna won Provincial Gold in 1976, 1993 and 1995. During that same period, representing Ontario, her team placed 4^th in the Canadian Championships in Ottawa and won Silver at the Canadians in Winnipeg.

 

Donna was part of our more elitist times – when everyone wore whites, and the length of one’s shorts was measured (no shorter than 5” above the knee) before you were allowed on the greens.

 

She tells an amusing story of her time in Australia in the seventies. While Barry was competing, Donna accepted an invitation from the local club to join in a social game. She wasn’t allowed to play until she did a quick trip to the shops. The problem -- her shoes were brown, and she forgot a hat.

 

Not like today, when almost anything goes, and preteens to seniors show up wearing any colour, and the only thing measured is the distance between the bowl and the jack.

 

Donna taught me how to measure, and that the difference between a ball and a bowl is that the bowl is weighted on one side, so that it travels in a straight line, then curves, like a curling stone, towards the target.

 

Like the lady herself, the sport is fascinating. It may not look fiercely competitive to the uninitiated, but it can be, and is clearly a sport of complex tactics. It is also low impact, economical and friendly.

 

In most clubs there is no charge to learn, so spread the word -- if you pass a Bowls Club with an open gate, come on in.

 

# # #

 

For anyone who was fortunate enough to share a green, or maybe, a podium with Donna or Barry – and would like to say ‘hi’ to this gracious lawn bowling icon, or maybe share a favourite memory – you can send an email to me at blwnbwls@yahoo.ca. I will see that it reaches Donna.

 

Mary Wootton

Member of the Burlington Lawn Bowling Club

Rick Mathews honoured at Richmond Green Indoor Lawn Bowling Club

On February 2 at the Richmond Green Indoor Lawn Bowling Club, Rick Mathews was honoured for many years of acting as the drawmaster. He was presented with a beautiful crystal trophy and framed large congratulations card.Rick in his competitive heyday was one of the very best specialist leads in Ontario. With his unique delivery and accuracy on the draw, Rick was always a difficult opponent.It is always nice to see one of the big local contributors honoured.

ONTARIO LAWN BOWLS ASSOCIATION

CONDITIONS OF PLAY – 2019

The following Conditions of Play apply to

District and Provincial Championship play only.

Clubs may choose to set their own Conditions of Play for club tournaments.

Championship Committee - Tom Roth (Chair), Steve Schuknecht, Darryl Fitzgerald, Cindy Higgins, David Anderson, Ken Simpson.

 

I. COMPETITIONS

1. As provided in the bylaws of Ontario Lawn Bowls Association (OLBA), the annual championships, including District Championships, will be organized by a Championship Committee that will enforce the policies and rules established by the OLBA Board of Directors to govern such championships. The Championship Committee will have jurisdiction over all matters that fall within the scope of the Emergency Committee and the Jury of Appeal. The Championship Committee will delegate the management of the District Championships to the District Committee and/or the District Representative in accordance with Section IV of these rules.
2. These championship rules apply to Fours, Pairs, Singles, Mixed Pairs, Senior Triples, Novice Triples, Novice Singles and Youth.
3. Fours will be played by women and men in separate events in a totally open double knock-out format.

Note: This format may change due to number of entries.

4. Pairs, Singles, Senior Triples, Novice Triples and Novice Singles will be played by women and men in separate events on two successive levels: District Championships and Ontario Championships.
5. Mixed Pairs will be played by a woman and a man: either may skip except in the case of substitution between the District Championships and the Ontario Championship level.
6. All competitions will be governed by the Laws of the Sport of Bowls: Crystal Mark Third Edition (Laws), any domestic regulations as set by Bowls Canada Boulingrin (BCB), and these Conditions of Play (COP).
7. District and Provincial Championships can be played on rinks that are a minimum width of 3.65 meters (12 Ft.).
8. The use of the word “Championships” with no qualifier or descriptor shall be deemed to include all levels of play, including District and Ontario Championships, except in cases where such interpretation would be unreasonable.

II. Eligibility

1. Requirements for All Participants

1. Players entering a District Championship must be available to compete at all succeeding events scheduled in the current year including the Ontario Championships, BCB Championships and World Bowls Championships if the BCB and World Bowls accepts entries in that discipline from OLBA and BCB. Players participating in any District or Provincial Championship knowing they can’t attend all Ontario, BCB or World Bowls Championships, if applicable, will be suspended from entry into all Ontario Championship Events for a period of up to twelve (12) months.
2. Club secretaries or other club officers, if requested, must be able to confirm the meeting of these eligibility requirements for those entering championship play.
3. Each participant must be a Canadian citizen, landed immigrant or a permanent resident. Participants must be prepared to show proof of eligible status.
4. A resident of a community in a neighbouring Province who is a member of an OLBA member club may be eligible subject to Bowls Canada Boulingrin regulations. Members who relocate temporarily for education or employment may compete if Ontario is their Province of permanent residency (as defined by their tax returns or other supporting documents) with the consent of OLBA.
5. To compete in District Championships in a district, the participant must be a paid-up member in good standing with a sticker from an OLBA club in the District where they are competing (Senior Triples and Mixed pairs excepted). The sticker must be affixed to the participant’s OLBA membership card.
6. For Senior Triples and Mixed Pairs, one member of the team must be a member of a club in the District they are competing in. Other team members of the team can be from any OLBA club in Ontario.
7. Fours Championships, the only requirement is to be a member of any club in Ontario. OLBA cards with a current sticker must be presented at the time of registration for the Fours event.

2. Novices

1. Novice eligibility in this section only pertains to District and Provincial play. This may not prohibit a Provincial Novice gold medal winner from competing in any open novice tournament as a novice. Each club will determine their own novice eligibility rules when hosting novice tournaments.
2. Provincial Novice competitions are limited to those having not more than five (5) years of lawn bowling memberships anywhere in the world (including the current year) and of any type (including crown green) and who have previously not won an Ontario Championship in Fours, Triples, Pairs, Singles, Seniors, Mixed Pairs, Novice or participated in a Canadian Championship event (open Canadian events excluded).
3. To participate in the District Novice Singles the player must first win their club or be designated by their club as that club’s representative. They must also be registered with OLBA through that club.
4. If a member of a Novice team is found to be ineligible, the entire team shall be subject to disqualification.
5. Winners of a gold medal at the Ontario Novice championships will not be eligible to play in future District and Ontario Novice Championships.

 

3. Youth in Novice Competition

1. The gold medal winners at the under 18 and the under 25 Canadian Championships are not eligible to participate in the Ontario Novice Championships.
2. Novice experience will not commence until the year following their thirteenth (13^th) birthday. Participants do not count any years prior to and including the year of their 13^th birthday.
3. Winners of the Under 18 Ontario Singles Championships are eligible for the Ontario Novice Championships, subject to Novice eligibility.

4. Seniors

1. Senior Triples participants must reach their sixty second (62nd) birthday no later than December 31, 2019 and be able to provide proof of age to the District Chair or Convenor of the District play down.
2. The convenor of the District Seniors Championships shall confirm the age of eligibility.

 

 

5. Youth Under 18

1. Participants must be a minimum age of 12 by July 6,2019 and under 18 as of August 12,2019.

 

III. General Rules

 

The following will apply to all District and Ontario Championships

 

1. Officials

1. In District Championships, accredited umpires and markers should be used whenever possible. In the Ontario Championships, umpires must be accredited and markers if not accredited, must be trained in their duties as outlined in the Laws.
2. For each District Championship event, should a single umpire be appointed, that umpire will be considered the Head Event Umpire.
3. Should more than one umpire be appointed for a District Championship, one shall be designated the Head Event Umpire, the other shall be designated the Assistant Head Event Umpire.
4. At all Ontario Championships, the Head Event Umpire and Assistant Head Event Umpire shall be appointed by the Officiating Chair.

 

2. Proper Dress

1. Shoes:

1. Shoes must be flat-soled with no separation between the front sole and heel (e. flat from toe to heel). Walking shoes and sports shoes are acceptable; sandals with a heel strap are also acceptable, when the back strap is firmly fitted when worn. Flat-soled wedge shoes (i.e. shoes that increase in height from toe to heel) are not acceptable. The width of any heel must be at least 50% of the widest part of the sole.
2. The sole may possess a shallow tread pattern or indented grooves to improve traction without damaging the green. A channel in the centre of the sole is acceptable; protuberances that extend out from the sole are not acceptable. Edges around the sole and around any channel need to be rounded.
3. Brand name lawn bowling shoes that are listed as approved on a current list, published by a member national authority, are generally acceptable. Shoes that have been re-soled to ensure that they comply with the Laws of the sport are also generally acceptable. Nevertheless, Bowls Canada Boulingrin reserves the right to disallow any specific shoe.
4. Umpires must use their best judgement and not unduly eliminate members from play unless they have a shoe that would clearly damage the green.

2. When playing Ontario Championships members of a team must wear the same colour and similarly patterned tops and bottoms. Shirts must have a collar and/or sleeves. Socks are optional. Provincial or Team Canada uniforms are not allowed (jackets excluded).
3. There is no limit to the size and number of team sponsor’s logos on team uniforms at the Provincial level. All uniform advertising and sponsor’s logos must be approved by the Championship Committee prior to the event by sending a copy of each logo to the Championship Chair. It should be noted that bowling at the National level, logos must conform to BCB Conditions of Play.
4. Participants failing to adhere to the dress code provisions will be warned by the Head Event Umpire to correct their apparel prior to the start of their next game.

1. Participants failing to adhere to the dress code after receiving a warning shall be subject to a fine of $25 per player for each match in which they are not properly attired. Such fines shall be paid to the event Convenor prior to each match in which a fine is payable.
2. Event Convenors shall have the authority to waive this requirement in cases of disability accommodation or significant hardship.

 

3. Absentee players

1. It is the responsibility of each participant to be aware of the announced start time for each game. The umpire will award one shot against an absent singles player or incomplete/absent team for every ten minutes or fraction thereof and it will be counted as an end played. At the end of a thirty-minute period, the game will be forfeited to the opposing team or singles player.

4. Forfeited Game

1. An umpire, either upon request, or having noted specific infractions of the Laws or these COP will warn the offending player or players. If the umpire then considers that the infractions are both continuing and deliberate, he/she will report to the Emergency Committee for a ruling on forfeiting the game to the opponents.
2. Any game awarded by forfeit, will have a score calculated by averaging the shots for and against (rounded up or down), from all games played in that round for determining seeding if there is a tie.

5. Financial Assistance

1. A Club or District may use its own funds to assist players at District or Ontario Championships.

6. Coaches

1. Each team or singles player may have one coach who must have obtained, at minimum, the level of “Trained Bowls Club Coach” under the current National Coaching Certification Program or level one under the previous NCCP system. Coaches shall be required to provide proof of their level and register with the Event Convenor.
2. Coaches shall conduct themselves in accordance with the requirements of Section 44 of the Laws.

7. Tobacco, Alcohol, Cell Phone and Verbal Abuse

1. Smoking, including electronic cigarettes are not allowed on the playing surfaces. Host club smoking policies must be adhered to. This includes competitors, umpires and markers. Should an infraction occur the offending player will be warned. On the 2^nd occurrence the offending player will be fined $100 which is payable immediately to the Convenor. The offending player will not be permitted to continue participating until the fine is paid. This fine is not refundable under any circumstances. On the 3^rd occurrence, the player shall be removed from any further play during the event.
2. No alcoholic beverages are to be consumed during play.
3. Verbal abuse of an opponent or official will not be tolerated. Should an infraction occur the offending player will be warned. On the 2^nd occurrence the offending player will be fined $100 payable immediately. On the 3^rd occurrence, the player shall be disqualified from further play during the event.
4. No electronic communication or entertainment devices, such as 2-way radios, cell phones, music players or other devices that permit communication by wireless signal shall be in a player’s possession or used by a player on or around the green during play including trial ends. All players shall be required to place all electronic devices on silent or vibrate if such devices are stored in proximity to the green.
5. Participants who require an electronic device to accommodate a disability shall be permitted to use such device and report to the emergency committee indicating their need for it’s us
6. Umpires, Convenors, Markers and other individuals involved in the administration of Championship events may have electronic devices in their possession for carrying out their duties. However, such devices must be set to vibrate or silent. Players who are also acting as umpires, convenors or in other administrative roles may not have proscribed electronic devices in their possession during play.

 

8. Objects on the Green

1. No umbrellas (open or folded) shall be allowed on the green during Championship play.
2. Bowls lifters must not be left unattended on the playing surface at the head end.
3. In the absence of the Greenskeeper, the Convenor and Head Event Umpire will determine the use of groundsheets. Host club has the final say regarding the use of groundsheets.

9. Bowls

1. All bowls must comply with the Laws and bear a visible, legible stamp confirming approval by World Bowls or one of its predecessor organizations.
2. Disc, altered, unmatched or coaching bowls are not allowed in Championship competition. Any player found to be using unmatched bowls will be disqualified immediately from the event and will face probable future sanctions which could include a lifetime ban on competing in any Ontario Championship.
3. Challenges to Bowls

1. Any player who wishes to lodge a challenge to an opponent’s bowls pursuant to section 52.4 of the Laws must pay a deposit of $1,000 to the Convenor by cash or certified funds at the time the challenge is lodged.

Exception: A challenge that does not require the set of bowls to be sent to a licensed tester, which is defined as challenging that set of bowls fails to comply with section 52.1.9 of the Laws (mismatched set of bowls) or sections 13(a)-(b) of the COP, will require a deposit of $50.

2. If a set of bowls fails a test, the user or owner of the set of bowls must reimburse the OLBA for all expenses in having the test done. The user or owner of the set of bowls shall be suspended from all OLBA sanctioned play until OLBA has been fully reimbursed.

The Board of Directors of OLBA shall have the discretion to waive or reduce this penalty in its sole and absolute discretion.

10. Substitution

1. Substitution will not be permitted at a later level for any player who, on entering the District Championships is aware of being unable to play on all dates for the event.
2. Substitution during any level, or between levels, will be permitted for illness, bona-fide emergency or unforeseen circumstances affecting a player. Affected participants must be prepared to provide medical documentation upon request at the participant’s expense.
3. In a singles event, any unfinished game will be forfeited, and no substitution allowed.
4. Emergency substitutions at the District level must be a member of a club from the same District (Senior Triples and Mixed Pairs excepted) and approved by the Event Convenor. A player is only considered a substitute after the first game of the event has begun.
5. If a substitute is required after the District Championships and before the Ontario Championships, the substitute must be a member of a club from the affected team’s District (Senior Triples and Mixed Pairs excepted) and approved by the Championship Committe
6. For the Ontario Championships it is the responsibility of each team to nominate a substitute player at the time of registration who is a member of a club within the team’s District (Senior Triples and Mixed Pairs excluded). Otherwise, a substitution from any District will be made by the Championship Emergency Committee and any such substitution must be willing to play the Nationals if their team qualifies.
7. Substitutes may not play in the skip position, but may play any other position. After playing any part of more than two consecutive matches any substitute becomes a permanent member of the team and may play any position, including skip.
8. If, on completion of any playdown level and for reasons other than those outlined in Section III (14b), a winning team or singles player is unable to compete in that event at the next level, then the winner will be replaced by the runner-up, or failing that, by the third-place finisher.
1. A winning player that has been substituted for and subsequently found to be in contravention of these rules will jeopardize his/her team from continuing and will not be allowed to compete in any remaining Championship events in that OLBA fiscal year and shall be suspended from entry into all Championship Events for up to twelve (12) complete months during the following OLBA fiscal year.
10. Upon the completion of a District Championship in all events, a substitution of any nature must be reported (with the circumstances and reasons for the substitution) to the Championship Committee Chairperson. The substitute will be allowed to enter the next playdown level, only after approval of the Championship Committee.
11. At Ontario Championships, substitutes may not have played in any capacity on another team that has competed in and been eliminated from that Ontario Championship.
50. One (1) substitute will be permitted in Pairs and Triples, two (2) substitutes will be permitted in Fours. In Pairs one (1) player of the original team must remain. In Triples two (2) players of the original team must remain. In fours, two (2) players of the original team must remain.
1000. When a substitution is made in accordance with Section III (10b), the replaced player may be permitted to re-enter that event one time only.
14. For the 1^st day of their involvement as a substitute, they will be exempt from the dress code.

11. Emergency Committee

1. The Emergency Committee consists of the Head Event Umpire, Assistant Head Event Umpire or designate as appointed by the Head Event Umpire and any two of the following:

1. OLBA representative or designate as appointed by OLBA.
2. Event Convenor or designate as appointed by the Event Convenor.
3. Greens Chairperson or designate as appointed by the Event Convenor.
4. Alternate as appointed by the Event Head Umpire.

2. Responsibilities of the Emergency Committee

1. The Emergency Committee will have the authority to shorten the length of matches, rearrange start times, amend the format and take other measures necessary to ensure the successful conclusion of the event.
2. The Emergency Committee will have the authority to shorten the length of tie-breaker matches to 4 ends if the weather or other conditions limit the availability of time to complete the tie-breaking process.
3. The Emergency Committee will have the authority to alter the dress code due to weather conditions.

3. For situations not covered by the Conditions of Play, the Emergency Committee will be the Governing Body for the event.

12. Jury of Appeal

1. The Jury of Appeal consists of one person from each of the following groups:

1. Head Event Umpire, Assistant Head Event Umpire or designate as appointed by the Head Event Umpire.
2. OLBA representative or designate as appointed by OLBA.
3. Event Convenor, Greens Chairperson or designate as appointed by the Event Convenor.

2. The Jury of Appeal will deal with any matters concerning an Umpire’s interpretation of the Laws. No person with a conflicting interest in the original ruling shall be on the Jury of Appeal.

13. Game Stoppages

1. The decision to terminate a game due to excessive rain, heat index or other unforeseen circumstances will be made by the Emergency Committee.
2. Games may have to be shortened due to excessive rain, heat index or other unforeseen circumstances. Such decisions may result in games being postponed to the following day at the same venue or on a later date at a venue to be decided on by the Emergency Committee.
3. Hot weather guide.

1. When the temperature reaches 35 degrees Celsius at the venue, play should be interrupted at 20-minute intervals (at completion of the end in play) for a period of 5 minutes, during which time, drinks should be made available. Any time limit imposed will be waived. When the temperature reaches 38 degrees Celsius at the venue, play will be suspended. Consideration should be given to all relevant factors, including age and health of players and officials, the level of humidity and amount of shade available at the venue.

4. Lightning

1. All District Championships and Ontario Championships shall comply with the lightning safety and preparedness standards issued by Environment Canada.
2. At first sound of thunder or observation of lightning, play shall be suspended immediately, and all participants shall be ordered from the greens to find appropriate shelter.
3. Play will not resume until at least 30 minutes have passed since the last sight of lightning or the sound of thunder.
4. Full details of these requirements are available at: https://www.ec.gc.ca/foudre-lightning/57412D67-2F2-4C74-B8B8-E7AF631CFB63/COM-1524-Lightning- FACTSHEET_04_e.pdf

14. Practice and Trial Ends

1. Two trial ends will be allowed at the beginning of any game with the number of bowls that will be used in the game. One trial end in each direction.
2. Trial ends will commence 15 minutes prior to the game start time.
3. If desired, participants may practice prior to the start of the first game on each day of competition. Practice must be perpendicular to the direction of play for that day. The Convenor for the event will decide which greens will be used for practice. Practice must cease within five minutes of the scheduled opening announcements.
4. Bye teams may practice as per section 4 (page 18 & 19) in the Laws.

 

15. Number of Games Played Each Day

1. No team or singles player shall be required to play more than three (3) games in a single day unless mutually agreed to by all parties. Byes and tie-breakers do not count as games.

16. Game Scoring

1. During round robin play, three points are awarded for a win, one point for a tie and zero points for a loss.

17. Length of Games

1. The length of each game will be as follows:

1. Singles is 21 shots, no time limit.
2. Fours is 16 ends, 2.5-hour time limit.
3. Pairs is 18 ends, 2.5-hour time limit.
4. Mixed pairs are 18 ends, 2.5-hour time limit.
5. Seniors is 16 ends, 2.5-hour time limit.
6. Novice triples is 14 ends, 2.75-hour time limit.
7. Novice singles is 21 shots, no time limit.

2. If during the round robin stage, there is a tie after the required number of ends have been played there will be no extra end played except in the case of two teams playing two out of three. In round robin games all ends must be played. An obvious failure to be competitive will be construed as unsportsmanlike conduct and subject all players on the team or the singles player, to a suspension from competing in District and Provincial Championships for one calendar year from the date of the infraction.
3. If during the elimination stage there is a tie after the required number of ends, an extra end will be played to determine the winner. A coin toss will determine which team will go first.
4. Time Limit:

1. Start of Play will commence with the convenor, umpire or designate signaling the start time by bell, horn, etc.
2. End of Play will be a signal by bell, horn, etc. by an appointed official. At this time players will complete the current end they are playing.
3. An end begins at the moment the jack is delivered by the 1^st player to play in an end.
4. Any end that is started prior to the end of play signal shall be completed, even if the said end is required to be replayed due to any provision included in the Laws.
5. If a player wishes to leave the rink of play, Law 33.1 will apply. However, if on more than one occasion, then on each occasion after the first they can do so only with their opponent’s and the umpire’s permission. The umpire’s permission will be granted in consultation with the player’s team manager or coach when they are present.

1. During such a delay, the other members of the team of the player who has left the green shall all position themselves at the mat end of the rink.
2. The team of the absent player shall not be permitted to communicate with their coach during this delay.

e. Any game that is mathematically impossible to win in the double knock-out format, or in an elimination

game in the round robin format, is considered over and will not continue.

18. Number of Bowls Used

1. Fours: 2 bowls per player.
2. Pairs: 3 bowls per player.
3. Singles: 4 bowls per player.
4. Mixed pairs: 3 bowls per player.
5. Senior Triples: 2 bowls per player.
6. Novice Triples: 3 bowls per player.
7. Novice Singles: 4 bowls per player.
8. Youth Singles: 4 bowls per player.

19. Restrictions on the Movement of Players During Play

1. After delivering their first bowl, players will only be allowed to walk up to view the head under the following circumstances. Players will not be allowed to visit the head more than once before delivering a bowl. Skips are not allowed to visit the mat end to give instructions to the player delivering a bowl.

1. Singles game

After delivery of their 3^rd and 4^th bowls unless the marker authorizes a visit after the 2^nd bowl.

2. Pairs

Leads after delivery of their 3^rd bowl.

Skips after delivery of their 2^nd and 3^rd bowls.

3. Triples

Leads after delivery of their 2^nd bowl (3^rd bowl in Novice).

Seconds after delivery of their 2^nd bowl.

Skips after delivery of each of their bowls.

4. Fours

Leads after the third player in their team has delivered their 2^nd bowl.

Seconds after the third player in their team has delivered their 2^nd bowl.

Thirds after delivery of their 2^nd bowl.

Skips after delivery of each of their bowls.

b. In fours, the leads, seconds and thirds must start each end at the mat end.

c. If a player does not meet the terms of 19 (a) and (b), Law 13 will apply (possession of the rink).

20. Slow Play

1. If an umpire by their own observation or an appeal from the opposing skip or opponent in singles, decides that a player is deliberately delaying the delivery of the player’s bowl or the skip is acting or issuing instructions designed to deliberately delay play:

1. In the case of singles, on the first occasion the umpire will warn the player. If in the opinion of the umpire the player commits the same offence a second time the end will be regarded as completed and the opponent of the offender will be awarded four shots.
2. In the case of team play, on the first occasion the umpire will warn the team in the presence of the Skip. If in the opinion of the umpire, the team commits the same offence a second time the end will be regarded as completed and the opponents of the offender will be awarded as many shots as there are bowls in use for the match (for example, in the case of fours, this would be eight shots).

2. Any stoppage of play due to time spent in discussion with the offending team or player regarding the application of this rule will be added to the time limit.
3. If during the end which is in progress immediately before the end time of play is signaled or on completion of that end and before the start of any subsequent end, the umpire as a result of their own observation or on appeal by one of the Skips, one of the team coaches or the Controlling Body, decides that a team is being prevented from playing a further end due to the actions of their opponents, they will notify the teams that they must play one more end even though the end time of play may have been signaled when such notification is given.

 

21. Re-spotting the Jack

1. If a jack in motion passes completely outside the boundaries of the rink of play, comes to rest in any hollow in the face of the bank, or rebounds to a distance of less than 18 metres from the mat line, the end must not be declared dead. Instead, the jack must be placed with the nearest point of the jack to the mat line at a re-spot position which is two metres from the front ditch and on the centre line.
2. If the re-spot position is partly or completely covered by a bowl, the jack must be placed as close as possible to the covered spot, between and in line with that spot and corresponding spot at the opposite end of the rink, without touching a bowl.
3. All greens must have the prescribed spot marked by chalk or another suitable method.
4. Re-spot position marks can not be challenged once play has begun.

22. Game Start Times

1. All games will start at the same time with the sounding of a bell, horn or other appropriate device.
2. The second game each day will start 40 minutes (trial bowls – 25 minutes) after the last two teams have finished play in the first game. The third game each day will start 30 minutes (trial bowls – 15 minutes) after the last two teams have finished play in game two.

23. Bowl and Shoe Inspection

1. Players will have their shoes and bowls inspected by an umpire who has been appointed to the competition prior to the start of play of the first game on the 1^st day of play. During the event, no other shoes or bowls can be substituted for, without first obtaining the approval of the Head Event Umpire.

24. Use of Bowling Delivering Aids

1. For District and Provincial Championships leading to National Championships, a player must be able to produce a medical certificate that attests to their physical disability. The exception is the Senior Triples Championship. A player must seek approval of their specific bowling aid from BCB. Devices such as bowling arms that are produced by a recognized manufacturer, and used with no customized modifications, will typically be approved.

 

IV. DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIPS

1. Duties of District Chairs

The District Chair (or designate), assisted by the District Committee will conduct the District Championships in each event and be responsible for:

1. Scheduling suitable sites and dates in a timely manner, for all District Championships, each of which is to be completed and winners declared by the dates set out by the OLBA. Sites may be altered in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
2. Appointing accredited umpires for each event.

1. Umpires appointed to District Championships should not be players if possible.
2. Umpires must be aware that time spent while acting as an umpire in which the said umpire is also a player will not count toward the umpire’s mandatory service time.

3. Accepting entries, ensuring compliance with eligibility clauses, collecting the entry fees for each event, making the draw, conducting the championship and adhering to any plan of operation or guideline issued by OLBA. Informing players, in advance of play, about the rules to be followed and how the winners are to be determined.
4. Sending a District report by email or phone as soon as possible following completion of each District Championship to the Championship Chair. The District report must contain the names of all participating players, home phone number, home club as well as name, address, email address and phone number of the skip of each team. A copy of the report along with remittance for entry fees collected for all teams in the district, which entered that Championship event plus the entry fee for District winners competing in the Provincial Championship, must be sent to the OLBA treasurer by cheque or e-transfer.
5. The District Chairperson (or designate) and the umpire will deal with any disputes or interpretations during the District Championships. If a decision cannot be made, see Section III (11).

2. Format

The following must be used.

1. Two entries: play best two out of three games, the game ends as soon as it’s mathematically impossible to win (shots for and against mean nothing). If tied after the required number of ends are played, there will be an extra end played to determine the winner, beginning with a coin toss to determine who plays first.
2. Three entries: Draw for bye, other two teams play first round. The winner of round one has the bye for round two while the other two (2) teams play. If the 1^st game ended in a tie, the team which scored more ends will receive the bye in the second round. In the 3^rd round the team getting the bye from round one (1) will play the team getting the bye from round two (2).
3. Four, five or six entries: Play a full round robin. If there is a bye, draw for bye and any team may only get one (1) bye during the round robin. If there is a tie, see Section IV (3). Teams do not have to complete the round robin games as scheduled if the results of those games don’t affect the outcome of the Championship.
4. Seven or more entries: play a modified round robin format. On day one, teams will play each other within their drawn group. The top two (2) teams from each group will advance to day two where single elimination will be use At the end of round robin play on day one, there may be teams tied in points. If there is a tie, see Section VI (3). Teams do not have to complete the round robin games as scheduled if the results of those games don’t affect the outcome of the placement of the top two finishers.

3. Tie Breaking Rules to Declare One Winner

1. First tie break: If there is a tie between two teams for first place after the round robin has been completed, the tie will be broken using the head to head game decision from the round robin.
2. Second tie break: If the tie for 1^st place involves two teams who tied in their head to head round robin game or involves three (3) or more teams after the round robin has been completed, there will be tie breaking games. Shot differential (shots for minus shots against) from games of the teams involved in the tie during the round robin, will be used for seeding (if still tied, use shots for and against from all games). Tie breaking will be 8 ends (11 shots in singles) if only one game is required to break ties. If two or more games are required, all tie breaking games will be 4 ends (7 shots in singles). Trial bowls will be allowed for tie breaking games.
3. If there are three teams tied, shot differential (shots for minus shots against) from games of the teams involved in the tie during the round robin, will be used for seeding (if still tied, use shots for and against from all games). The 2^nd highest and lowest seeded teams will play, the winning team will move onto the next tie breaker game, the loser is declared 3^rd place. The winning team from the first tie breaker game and the highest seeded team will play, the winner will be declared 1^st place, loser is declared 2^nd place. Games are 4 ends (7 shots in singles).
4. If there are four teams tied, shot differential (shots for minus shots against) from games of the teams involved in the tie during the round robin, will be used for seeding (if still tied, use shots for and against from all games). Top place plays the 4^th place team, 2^nd place team plays the 3^rd place team. Losers out, remaining teams play for 1^st and 2^nd place. Games are 4 ends (7 shots in singles).
5. If there are five teams tied, shot differential (shots for minus shots against) from games of the teams involved in the tie during the round robin, will be used for seeding (if still tied, use shots for and against from all games). The 4^th place team plays the 5^th place team, loser out, the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place teams receive a by In round two 1^st the place team plays the winner of the 4^th and 5^th place team’s game, 2^nd place team and the 3^rd place team play, losers out. Remaining two teams play for 1^st and 2^nd plac Games are 4 ends (7 shots in singles).
6. If after the application of all tie breaking rules, there are still teams tied, seeds will be randomly drawn among the affected teams.

4. Byes

The draw will be conducted following these guidelines

1. For all round robins with a bye the District Chairperson will determine and announce the method used to allocate the bye.
2. Only one bye is allowed for each team until all competing teams have also had a bye during the round robin.
3. Teams will not play each other more than once during the round robin stage.

5. Awards

1. District winners will be presented with District Winners pennants and pins at the Provincial Championship.

 

V. Fill in Teams- Provincial Championships

Additional teams for the Provincial Championships to bring the total number of teams to 16 are selected in the following manner.

1. First team – the 2^nd place from the district where the event is being held.
2. Second team – using the runner-up from the District with the highest number of entries in the District Championships for that event.
3. Remaining teams will be filled through a random draw from all Districts with a second-place team that has not already received an entry.

Note: If two districts were even in entries for any one event, then the District with the highest number of total entries (women’s plus men’s) for the event would send a team. If two Districts were still tied in numbers, then the Championship Chair would choose the closest team, geographically, to the host venue. If two spots are available, both teams receive an entry.

VI. Ontario Provincial Championships

1. General Provisions

 

1. Winners of the District Championships will play at the Provincial Championships at locations and dates set by OLBA.
2. The Ontario Championships will be organized and conducted by the Provincial Convenor (or designate) who will act as the draw master.
3. The Head Event Umpire will enforce these rules and the Laws.
4. For the Ontario Championships, skips will draw for opponents and rinks at the host club before the event starts.
5. Fours (depending on number of entries), Pairs, Singles, Mixed Pairs, Seniors, Novice Triples and Novice Singles will be a two-day event.
6. Participants advancing to the National Championships may only play Fours or Pairs along with Singles. Players competing in the National Fours, Pairs or Singles will not be allowed to enter the District Championships for Mixed Pairs, Senior Triples, Novice Triples or Novice Singles.
7. Players competing in the National Senior Triples will not be allowed to enter the District Championships for Mixed Pairs, Novice Triples or Novice Singles.
8. Players competing in the National Mixed Pairs will not be allowed to enter the District Championships Novice Triples or Novice Singles.
1. Any game awarded by forfeit or bye, will have a score calculated by averaging the points for and against (rounded up or down), from all games played in that round for determining seeding if there is a tie.

 

2. Format

 

1. Fours: This is an open event so teams can be made up of players from any district in Ontario. It will be played as a double knock-out when possible. Format may change due to the number of entries received.
2. Pairs: This is not an open event, so teams must be made up from players who are registered at a club in the District they are representing. It will be played as a modified double knock-out, gold medal game will be the 1^st game on day two. Two days to complete.
3. Singles: This is played as a modified double knock-out, gold medal game will be the 1^st game on day two. Two days to complete.
4. Mixed Pairs: Teams must be made up from players of which one player is registered at a club in the District they are representing. This event will be played as a modified double knock-out, gold medal game will be the 1^st game on day two. Two days to complete.
5. Senior Triples: Teams must be made up from players of which one player is registered at a club in the District they are representing. This event will be played as a modified double knock-out, gold medal game will be the 1^st game on day two. Two days to complet
6. Novice Triples and Singles: These events will be played with a modified round robin on day one, with the top two (2) teams from each group advancing to day two. On day two, there is a single elimination in game one. The winners of game two will play for gold/silver. The losers of game two will play for bronze/4^th.

 

3. Tie Breaking Rules for Two Teams Advancing

At the end of round robin play, there may be teams tied in points.

1. Tie between two teams

1. A tie between two teams will be broken using the head to head result from the round robin. If those two teams tied their round robin game, first and second place will be decided by shots for and against.

 

2. Tie between three teams

1. If the tie is between three teams tied for 1^st place:

• Shot differential (shots for minus shots against) of the teams involved during the round robin will determine the seeding from the games of the teams involved (if still tied, use shots for and against from all games).
• Head to head would break a further tie for seeding.
• If all three teams have the same shot differential, a blind draw for seeding will be used.
• The highest and second highest seeded teams will play a four-end tie breaker game and the winning team will be declared 1^st place in the group.
• The lowest seeded team and the losing team from the 1^st tie breaker will play a four-end tie breaker game and the winning team will be declared 2^nd place in the group. The losing team will be declared 3^rd place in the group.

2. If there is a tie between three teams tied for 2^nd place:

• Shot differential (shots for minus shots against) of the teams involved during the round robin will determine the seeding from the games of the teams involved (if still tied, use shots for and against from all games).
• Head to head would break a further tie for seeding.
• If all three teams have the same shot differential, a blind draw for seeding will be used.
• The second highest and lowest seeded teams will play a four-end tie breaker game and the winning team will move onto the next tie breaker game. The losing team will be declared 4^th place in the group.
• The winning team from the 1^st tie breaker game and the highest seeded team will play a 4-end tie breaker game and the winner will be declared 2^nd place in the group. The losing team will be declared 3^rd place in the group.

Note: If there is a tie, after the required number of ends played during the tie breakers there shall be an extra end played to determine the winner.

4. Awards for Fours, Pairs, Singles, Mixed Pairs and Senior Triples

1. Gold and silver medalists in each event along with the 3^rd and 4^th place finishers in singles will represent Ontario at the Canadian Championships held in the same year under the auspices of Bowls Canada Boulingrin.
2. OLBA will be responsible for paying the BCB entry fee of $100 per person on behalf of each bowler.
3. For each competition, the gold and silver medalists along with the 3^rd and 4^th place finishers in singles will be presented with an Ontario uniform consisting of an Ontario jacket and 2 Ontario shirts. Note: If you have received an Ontario uniform in the last 5 years, you are not eligible for a new one unless it is not of the current design. Uniforms may be replaced due to wear or size change before the 5 years at the discretion of the Championship Chair. There is no monetary reward for uniforms not given out.
4. Gold, silver and bronze medals will be presented in every event.
5. Substitute players or teams will each receive a uniform consisting of a jacket and 2 shirts.
6. Fours: After all expenses are paid from entry fees collected, gold medallists will receive 50% (divided 4 ways), silver medalists will receive 40 % (divided 4 ways), and bronze medalists will receive 10% (divided 4 ways). Women’s and Men’s entry fees will be calculated separately. Expenses will be calculated proportionally by the number of Women’s and Men’s entries.
7. Pairs: Gold medallists will receive $550 each, silver medallists will receive $450 each and bronze medallists will receive $100 each.
8. Singles: Gold medallists will receive $550 each, silver medallists will receive $450 each, bronze medallists will receive $350 each and 4^th place will receive $250 eac
1. Mixed Pairs and Seniors: Gold medallists will receive $550 each, silver medallists will receive $450 each and bronze medallists will receive $100 each.

 

5. Awards for Novice Triples

1. First place finishers will be presented an Ontario jacket, a gold medal and $250 each.
2. Second place finishers will be presented a silver medal and $150 each.
3. Third place finishers will be presented a bronze medal and $50 each.

6. Awards for Novice Singles

1. All District Novice singles winners will receive a windbreaker jacket in addition to the District winner’s pennant and pin.
2. First place finishers will be presented, a gold medal, Ontario jacket and $250.
3. Second place finishers will be presented a silver medal and $150.
4. Third place finishers will be presented a bronze medal and $50.

 

VII. Indoor Singles Qualifier

1. Entries

Entries are open to any player in Ontario who is a member in good standing at any club in Ontario.

1. This is played in separate women’s and men’s events.
2. Gold and silver medallists are required to travel to Vancouver, BC for the Canadian Indoor Championship that is a qualifier for the World Indoor Championships held in Austrailia.
3. Entries submitted to the Championship Chair before Aug. 22, 2019.
4. Entry fee is $100 per player.

2. Format

1. Each game will consist of 2 nine (9) end sets with a 3-end tie breaker if necessary.
2. Single re-spot rule in effect.
3. Double knock out or modified round robin will be used depending on number of entries.

3. Awards

1. Gold and silver medalists will each receive 2 Ontario shirts.
2. OLBA will be responsible for paying the BCB entry fee of $100 per person.
3. After all expenses are paid from entry fees collected, gold medallists will receive 50%, silver medalists will receive 40 %, and bronze medalists will receive 10%. Women’s and Men’s entry fees will be calculated separately. Expenses will be calculated proportionally by the number of Women’s and Men’s entries.

VIII. Youth 18 and Under Championships

1. General Provisions

1. The Youth 18 and under Championship will be played at a location and on dates set by the OLBA.
2. Entry is open to any qualifying player who is a member in good standing at any club in Ontario.

2. Format

1. The Championship is a singles competition.
2. Where possible, a modified round robin format will be used.
3. Length of each game is the first player to score 18 shots.
4. Tie breaker games will be the first player to score 9 shots.
5. Single re-spot rule will be in effect.
6. Convenor reserves the right to change the format as required depending on the number entries received.
7. Trial bowls will be 4 bowls in each direction.
8. 2.25-hour time limit

3. Awards

1. Gold and silver medallists representing Ontario at the Canadian Championships held in the same year under the auspices of Bowls Canada Boulingrin:
2. OLBA will be responsible for paying the BCB entry fee of $100 per person on behalf of each bowler.
3. Each player will receive $500 travel subsidy for National Championships held outside the Province of Ontario or $250 if the National Championship is held in Ontario.
4. Each player will receive an Ontario uniform consisting of an Ontario jacket and 2 Ontario shirts. Note: If you have received an Ontario uniform in the last 5 years, you are not eligible for a new one unless it is not of the current design (this does not apply to youths who have outgrown their uniform at the discretion of the Championship Chair). There is no monetary reward for uniforms not given out.
5. Medals will be presented to the 1st, 2nd and 3^rd place winners only.
6. Any player winning gold or silver at the Ontario Championship who chooses not to represent Ontario at the Canadian Championships will only receive an Ontario jacket and the appropriate medal.

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Disclaimer:The information and articles provided in this email represent the opinions of the articles author and should not be considered as endorsed by or policy of the Ontario Lawn Bowls Association OR it's Directors.

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