The prestigious Kelly Rose Bowl Competition has been played annually for 45 years.

As current holders of the prestigious trophy, the Cootamundra Ex-Services Club ladies had the honour of hosting this year’s event and a full green, as well as three rinks at the Country Club were required to accommodate the 20 teams of three.

Some games lasted nine ends, others 11 and for the very brave 12, with the conditions really playing a part in keeping bowls dry for starters and then on the right track.

The good news is all ladies enjoyed a beautiful lunch of hot soup and sandwiches from Mitzi’s Bistro at the Ex-Services Club, just what was needed to warm them up.

The overall winner of the day was the team from Harden consisting of Kelly Daley, Chris Hancock, Robyn Apps, Glenda Rose, Theresa Peet and Bev Gillespie.

They finished with a total of 27 points, just one in front of Stockinbingal who were represented by Lynn Fisher, Wendy Deacon, Jan Jackson, Anne Larsen and Marilyn Allen, as well as the host club’s Roma Owen who was their ‘import’ for the day.

The talented Harden team put up a great performance to bring the trophy home for the first time since 1989.

Harden has now earned the right to host next year’s Kelly Rose Bowl and everyone is hoping the weather will be kinder.