Dunstable bowls club to open doors to public in an effort to boost the game
The sport is hoping to attract 20,000 new participants before next year's Commonwealth Games
A Dunstable bowls club is opening its doors to the public today, in an effort to encourage participants to give it a go.
Ahead of next year's Commonwealth Games, local bowls clubs are stepping up efforts to revive interest in one of the UK’s most traditional sports.
The sport is thought to be undergoing a modern revival, celebrating inclusivity and breaking down stereotypes.
The Bowls' Big Weekend, taking place until the 26th of May, is further helping shine a light on the sport.
Match Secretary for Dunstable Town Bowls Club, Stephen Klimaytys, said: "It's not expensive, it's pretty easy to play and I can't emphasise enough how many friends that you will make.
"You can start literally with a pair of flat-soled shoes. That's all you need."
Bowls has proved to be vital for both individuals and for connecting communities, while being an inclusive, accessible, and rewarding sport.
Although it continues to be seen by some as a game for older generations, Mr Klimaytys is determined to shift that perception.
He said: "I think it probably is a perception that it's an old person's game and I'm definitely not old. I'm still holding down a full-time job. We are getting younger people in, but it's taking a lot of hard work to get them to do it."
To combat misconceptions and promote participation, Dunstable Town Bowling Club has been working actively with local schools and the wider community.
The club has been plastering adverts across the town, while planning workshops in collaborations with schools.
For Mr Klimaytys, the game offers far more than sport. It is a social lifeline and community hub.
"If I had not started bowls, I certainly wouldn't have 150 new friends as we speak. It is that good," he said. "We are competitive, but we're also friendly. Even when the season is out, we meet up, we have quiz nights, we have race nights, we have bridge clubs."
The club itself has recently taken significant steps to become more professional in order to support new members, with coaches now trained by Bowls England and the recent appointment of directors and safeguarding officers.
With Bowls England aiming to attract 20,000 new participants before the Commonwealth Games, Dunstable Town assured now is the perfect time for people to give the sport a go.