COMPETITIONS COMMITTEE UPDATE

The Competitions Committee held a meeting by Zoom on Thursday 13 August, fully aware of the need to provide information to the short mat community. The IIBA, like other bodies is subject to the guidelines issued by the Government and relevant bodies, in their case Sport NI and Sport Ireland. The IIBA await decisions from these bodies but the Competitions Committee realise the importance of proving as much information to clubs and bowlers as possible with short mat bowls possibly more affected by the pandemic than other sports. The recommendations of the Competitions Committee are subject to whatever guidelines are issued and the situation at the time. The Committee see little realistic prospect of bowling for the rest of 2020 and the following are the result of the Committee’s discussions.

National Championships

It is hoped to complete these in March 2021. At present Shaw’s Bridge only permit 30 players on each green which would make it impossible to complete some of the competitions.

Champion of Champions

With the Nationals not completed, Zone Championships and tournaments not completed it is unlikely that this competition can be played before the end of March / early April.

Inter Zone

The competition will not take place in 2020/21. The current draw will operate next season but depending upon the situation in zones it may require a new draw.

Club Championship

This will not take place in 2020/21.

Tournaments

It is unlikely that any tournaments will take place in 2020. A number of tournaments were not completed and some who had paid licence fees were not able to take place. These fees will be carried over.

Leagues

There is certainly little prospect of leagues involving rinks taking place. With many halls not open and no precise opening dates, it may not be possible to run leagues in 2020.

World Bowls

World Bowls is due to be played in Belgium in March 2021 but IIBA participation will depend on the Covid19 situation nearer the time.

Fees

Clubs may be asked to pay a reduced affiliation fee to cover ongoing costs  which the IIBA has to cover but this will be discussed at an Executive meeting.

Executive It is hoped to have an Executive meeting in the near future so that all the Convenors can update the Executive on the views within their own zone.

 

The Committee recognise that the welfare and health of the bowling community must be paramount in whatever decisions are taken.