This is a bi-annual event that sees Bowls Algarve host Posada Alameda in the early part of the year playing games across a number of clubs with the return leg played in Spain in June.

It was with high hopes that the Portuguese convoy drove across the border ready to defend the recently won Cup. This year the team included members from Pedras, Balaia, Alvor and Floresta. The trend in the past has always seen the Algarve win the home leg with Spain winning the away.

As the temperatures rose to the low 30’s the teams took to the carpet for the first day of bowling. All did not go Posada’s way with one rink posting a win for the Algarve side, spoiling Posada’s perfect day. The second day saw an improvement for the Algarve side, winning 2 rinks. Day 3 provided its own challenge with temperatures rising to the mid 30's giving us 1 win and 2 draws. So overall Bowls Algarve Team came away with 4 wins and 2 draws against 12 wins and 2 draws for Posada. Not a bad result for Portugal, an improvement on last year but, as Francis Reynolds said "more practice on carpet required". And we all know practice makes perfect.

After a lovely meal hosted by our opponents the Challenge Cup was duly returned to Spain. Thank you Posada and Bowls Algarve for a wonder trip.

Bowls Algarve expect it back next year!


Photo shows the Lawns Bowls Challenge Cup being presented by Frances Reynolds to Jeff Rowe from Posada bowls.