Bowls, also known as lawn bowls, has been enjoyed as a sport for centuries. The game involves rolling biased balls towards a smaller ball called a "jack" or "kitty" and stopping as close as possible to it. In this blog post, we'll delve into the history and evolution of this sport.
Origins of Bowls
The exact origins of bowls are unclear, but it is believed to have started in ancient times in Egypt and Greece. Evidence of a form of lawn bowls has also been found in Rome, where the game was known as "pila". In ancient times, the game was played with stones rather than balls.
Bowls in the Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, bowls became a popular pastime in England, particularly among the upper classes. The game was played on fields, and the size of the playing area was determined by the length of the local lord's "bowling alley". During this time, the balls were made of wood or stone.
The Emergence of Bowling Greens
In the 1800s, the construction of bowling greens began, which allowed for a standardized playing area. These greens were typically made of natural grass and were slightly concave to allow for proper drainage. At this time, the balls were also becoming more standardized, with wooden balls being replaced by bowls made of lignum vitae, a tropical hardwood.
Later Developments
In the 20th century, bowls experienced a surge in popularity, particularly in England and Australia. The game was played in both indoor and outdoor settings, with artificial turf and cotula replacing natural grass greens. The balls themselves also saw innovation, with the introduction of synthetic materials such as rubber and resin.
Face Basin: The Future of Bowls
In recent years, there has been a push to make bowls more accessible to a wider audience. One such development is the introduction of a new game format called "face basin". This version of the game is played with smaller bowls on a smaller playing surface, making it easier for beginners to learn the basics of the sport.
In conclusion, bowls has come a long way since its origins in ancient times. From playing with stones in Egypt to the introduction of synthetic materials in the modern era, this sport has evolved significantly over the centuries. With innovations like face basin, it's clear that the future of bowls is bright, and it will continue to be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.