The perception of bowls being a sport for slow-moving retirees wearing white shoes is about to be bowled over (pun intended). In the Western Cape, this pastime is gaining momentum with a younger generation turning this formerly unfashionable sport into hip get togethers where fun-seekers sip on their wine while a barefoot teammate takes a turn on the green.

The good news is that the demographics of participants are changing. Bowls is the ultimate inclusive sport requiring no hard-earned skill or inbred talent, has no age or gender restriction and is, even when played competitively, a most enjoyable social event.

The Zandvliet Bowls Business League Tournament invites would-be bowlers to participate in the socially competitive championships played at club level (±80 participating clubs) where a slot in the finals held in Bonnievale in Septemer 2019 is the bull’s eye. Play-offs are organised by the six district clubs, namely Cape West Coast, Karoo, Cape Winelands, Cape Town, Klein Karoo & Eden and Cape Overberg. The Business League encourages businesses to enter teams of four and use this as a network-forming and teambuilding opportunity. Close to 4800 entrants are expected to participate in the approximately 120 tournaments. The four best teams per district will partake in the finals.

With Zandvliet Wine Estate coming on board the sport is expected to receive a further boost. The social nature of the events and the sport’s stylish personality resonate with this wine estate and its rich history. “We’re excited to be part of such an initiative where people of all ages are drawn outside for a day of fun and networking,” says Jacques Cilliers, Zandvliet winemaker. “I’ve attended a few of these events before and the entertainment value is high, while communities unite in the leisurely competitive environment. Our involvement with Bowls is an ideal match.”

This Tournament enjoys the support of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport and Western Cape Bowls.