Sep 25, 2015:

National Bowls Competition Winners 2015

The Great Northern Hotel in Bundoran, Co. Donegal, saw the hugely popular Active Retirement Ireland National Bowls Competition roll into town. Spectators watched over 50 skilled teams of retired adults aged 50 to 95 compete for the coveted Active Retirement Ireland Cup. Now in its sixth year, the competition was bigger and more competitive than ever, as teams took part in local bowls events throughout the year to prepare for the tournament, culminating in this great event in Bundoran.

In addition to the excitement of the Bowls, a host of other activities entertained the attending spectators throughout the three day event, including golf competitions, walks and excursions.

The winners of this year's competition were Saint Paul's Men's Active Retirement from Waterford City, who won the Active Retirement Cup for small bowls, and Active Virginians from Virginia, who won the Active Retirement Cup in the large bowls competition.

The plate winners were Ballon Active Retirement from Co. Carlow, who won the small bowls competition, and Midleton Active Retirement Association from Co. Cork in the large bowls.

Peter Kavanagh, Head of Communications and Public Affairs for Active Retirement Ireland, said:

"More than two-thirds of older people in Ireland are overweight or obese, so physical activity is very important. Just half an hour a day of moderate physical activity is enough to make people feel better and live longer.

Bowls is a sport that people of almost any age can participate in, regardless of their physical ability, so it really suits our members who want some enjoyable light exercise. One of the goals of our national tournament is encourage more people to remain active and sociable during their retirement years. These bowlers are an inspiration to people of all ages. They are contributing to their own health and wellbeing by staying active and healthy through physical and mental activities. This is not only a great social event; it's also a fantastic sporting occasion for people of all ages. 

With over 570 local associations throughout the country Active Retirement Ireland works to ensure that retired people maintain a full and active life and are recognised for their contribution to our society.

<  BACK TO NEWS & EVENTS