Sporting stalwart still winning on the bowling greens

The former headteacher at St Julians School in Exmouth recently won the popular Indoor 106 competition at Budleigh Salterton Bowls Club, beating two of the club’s best players on his way to the trophy.

Tony has been playing bowls for the past 18 years and his weekly schedule remains jam-packed, as he also coaches the sport, plus Mahjong and badminton to participants at the U3A, and even a bit of musical fun on the weekend.

“I worked as a teacher until the age of 55,” said Tony. “I then moved into the retail sector for a further ten years before teaching youngsters to play the guitar and introducing them to tennis.

“I played tennis more than bowls in my younger years, finally retiring from tennis at 85. I was proud to win the doubles title for my local club at Budleigh Salterton but bowls has now become my main sport.

“My week starts with bowls on a Monday, then coaching bowls for the U3A on a Tuesday. I’m back to playing bowls on a Wednesday morning and then coach badminton in the afternoon.

“Thursday is my shopping day, Friday is teaching Mahjong in the morning and playing bowls in the afternoon. I also play the church organ on a Sunday, so Saturday is my only quiet day.

“It is a very busy week but, even when I’m feeling tired, I force myself to play bowls because it is so important and beneficial to stay active. There is a great atmosphere at Budleigh Bowls Club this season after all the Covid disruptions.

“I actually play much better at indoor bowls than outdoor. The indoor game is more about accuracy and outdoor bowls is tough with all the uncertain weather. I was very proud to win the Indoor 106 competition and managed to beat some brilliant players along the way.”

Keep on bowling Tony, a wonderful sporting inspiration, who continues to pass on his knowledge to new players.

Winner of the Mens’ 106 - Tony Lim (Centre) with runner up Simon Weclawek & Marker Andy Skudder (Image: Budleigh BC)