Neilston hosts successful launch of National Try Bowls Weekend

Bowls Scotland officially launched its first National Try Bowls Weekend, which runs from 1–4 May, with a successful opening event at Neilston Bowling Club on Friday evening.

The event welcomed members of the local community onto the green, bringing together families, young people and adults, with local schools also invited along to take part. Attendees were able to enjoy a range of fun and accessible activities designed for all ages and abilities, including bowls noughts and crosses, target games, and traditional rink play, giving first-time players a relaxed and welcoming introduction to the sport.

For many, it was their first experience of bowls. Phoebe Gordon-Woolgar was among those trying the sport for the first time and quickly found herself enjoying the challenge.

“I’m actually a lot better at bowls than I thought I’d be,” she said. “It’s been really good fun and I’d definitely come back again.”

The launch event forms part of the build-up to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, with Commonwealth Games athletes Garry Brown, Pauline Wilson and Mary Stevenson in attendance. The athletes spent time meeting participants, supporting activities and helping to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere on the green.

“It’s really good to see so many people out on the green enjoying themselves,” said Pauline Wilson. “Bowls is a sport for everyone, and days like this really help show that.”

The evening also provided a valuable opportunity for Neilston Bowling Club to showcase its facilities and growing community, particularly its focus on encouraging younger players into the sport.

“We’ve been working over the last few years to bring more young people into the club and build a youth section,” said Clarke Gourlay, Club Treasurer at Neilston Bowling Club. “So it’s great to see so many families and kids here enjoying it.”

Glasgow 2026 mascot Finnie joined the event, meeting attendees, posing for photos and getting involved on the green, adding to the sense of occasion and creating memorable moments for those taking part.

The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere was evident throughout, with a steady flow of participants taking to the green and enjoying the opportunity to try something new. Activities were designed to be accessible and engaging, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or experience, could get involved and enjoy the sport.

“This weekend is Bowls Scotland’s inaugural National Try Bowls Weekend, and it’s fantastic to see so many people here at Neilston enjoying themselves,” said Oliver Martyn, National Development Officer at Bowls Scotland. “Clubs across Scotland are opening their doors, and hopefully replicating the kind of fun we’ve seen here throughout the weekend.”

Neilston’s launch event marked the beginning of a wider programme of activity, with more than 70 clubs across Scotland opening their doors over the bank holiday weekend to welcome new participants and showcase bowls within their local communities.

National Try Bowls Weekend runs from 1–4 May, with clubs across Scotland opening their doors to welcome new participants.

To find your nearest participating club and get involved, visit the National Try Bowls Weekend page on the Bowls Scotland website:
https://www.bowlsscotland.com/bowls/national-try-bowls-weekend