Devlin lays down a marker!

The 2010 renewal of The Ring Cup continues to throw up intriguing clashes and one such score paired James Devlin against the former All-Ireland Novice Champion Niall Smith. It really was a case of youth and against experience in this Grade 1 contest at the Navan Road. Perfect bowling conditions produced almost the perfect performance from young Devlin as he quickly raced into an early advantage at the Ring Gates. However Smith, who has been dogged with injury since his All-Ireland triumph in 2008, certainly was not going to be intimidated by his younger rivals speed, agility and accuracy. Indeed it was Smith who raced back into the lead at the "Bull Track" when lining one from before "Cross's Lane". However, from here the young Armagh Student played four devastating bowls to almost reach Loughrans. Unfortunately, the party was almost spoiled with a misplaced effort at the line but with Smith not taking advantage, the score was effectively over. Young James' win here certainly lays down a marker in the Grade 1 and he appears to be the man to beat in the Grade!

Introducing the new NRBA Club Jacket!

The NRBA committee have received very positive feedback on the new NRBA Club Jackets. Our Assistant Chairman, Fergal Mc Creesh is seen modelling the new attire to good affect. The NRBA Committee look forward to more members and friends availing of the Club Jacket initiative. All Club Members wishing to purchase the NRBA Club Jacket should note that new bookings will be taking place over the next number of weeks. Each jacket costs just £23 for adults and £20 for all child sizes. For further information, please feel free to contact any committee member.

Charity Day benefits Musgrave Park Hospital - Spinal Injury Unit

NRBA were delighted to witness the return of their esteemed club member, John Garvey to the Navan Road on Sunday past. John, who has been off the road since incurring a serious work injury back in October '09, was on hand to accept a cheque on behalf of the Spinal Injuries Unit at Musgrave Park Hospital, Belfast. John has seen at first hand the tremendous work that takes place here and was humbled by the donation from the club. In late February, NRBA and the local Rock Road Club, joined forces to undertake a Charity Bowling Day. The NRBA would also like to take this opportunity in thanking the Rock Road Club for their co-operation in organising the event. Pictured above is the NRBA Secretary, Stephen Smith presenting a cheque to Club Member John Garvey with fellow NRBA Club Members looking on.

Following on from our presentation, Musgrave Park Hospital has been in touch with NRBA. In a letter dated, 19-03-10, the Hospital writes, " Please Pass on our sincere thanks to Navan Road & Rock Road Bowling Clubs for their very generous donation. It is really, really appreciated & will be used for the patients of the Spinal Cord Injury Unit. Thank you for your generosity & thoughtfulness Shiela Nevin, Manager, SCIU, MPH"

"Big Bird" home to roost

This week at the Navan Rd. saw the triumphant return of our former member and long time supporter of NRBA, Terry Mallon. The Kerry Chef made the surprise appearance at a well attended Navan Rd and proceeded to continue as he left off by producing a superb performance of accurate and powerful bowling to overcome good opposition in a number of challenge scores. "Big Bird" as he is affectionately known, "mixes it" with the best of the Munster bowlers and he appears to be in tip-top shape as yet another Championship approaches.