Against the Odds

Audlem Bowling Club – the 2026 George Johnson and Connie Huntbach Cups

The Eve of Battle: Torrential Rain & A Tense Call

The day before the tournament, heavy torrential rain threatened to completely wash out the 2026 George Johnson and Connie Huntbach Cups. With thunderous showers predicted, discussion turned to whether the events should be postponed entirely. Lesley Davenport raised concerns over potential low turnout and suggested moving the games back a week, but Sue Condrey advocated for pushing forward. Ultimately, the organisers took a massive gamble and decided to let the morning reveal their fate.
A Greenkeeping Miracle & Village Fete Fun The gamble paid off thanks to head greenkeeper Dave Condrey, who worked absolute miracles on the playing surface. Despite the deluge the day prior and a heavy downpour at 1:00 PM on game day, Dave had the green running in perfect, immaculate condition, allowing all matches to wrap up before 3:00 PM.

Adding to the weekend's excitement, several Audlem bowlers swerved the internal club competition altogether for the irresistible chance of scooping a prize at the village fete! Swapping their woods for dog leads, they took a detour over to the Playing Field with their four-legged companions to tackle the fete's fun dog show. Judged by local vet Steve Leonard across hotly contested categories like Waggiest Tail, Prince Charming, and Best Oldie, the club's winning spirit was on full display even if a few members traded bowling silverware for coveted fete rosettes!

Nail-Biting Tournament Results

Gentlemen s George Johnson Cup

With 10 contenders battling for the title, the action came down to the wire:

• Semi-Final 1: Ben Thelwell pulled off a thrilling victory, narrowly edging out Todd Ridge in a tense 21 18 thriller.
• Semi-Final 2: Dave Hardman matched the drama in an identical 21 18 showdown against Andy Watson to earn his place in the final.
• The Final: Dave Hardman carried his momentum forward, dominating the final against Ben Thelwell with a 21 9 win to lift the trophy.

Ladies Connie Huntbach Cup

With four top players entering straight into the semi-finals, the tension was high from the start:

• Semi-Final 1: Sue Condrey put on a sharp display, holding off a tough challenge from Barb Hardman for a 21 10 win.
• Semi-Final 2: Jean Stretch matched the scoreline, defeating Debbie Ruscoe-Icke 21 10 to secure her final spot.
• The Final: In a riveting, edge-of-your-seat championship decider, Sue Condrey dug deep to outlast Jean Stretch 21 15 and claim the cup!