40 July 2012 BTM happeningssportsrecreation Alison Coldridge The summer heat and Ramadan all rolled into one; not exactly the best time of the year to be outdoors; so head for this annual indoor bowling event to let off some steam. Bowling is probably not an activity that many would deem a sport as such; it is generally played by families and friends for enjoyment purposes. It takes, though, some considerable skill to transform this casual pastime into a highly competitive professional arena. Fortunately, all that is required for one charitable tournament this month is a try-hard attitude and a willingness to have lots of fun! Bowlers from across not only the Kingdom but also the GCC are reuniting on the lanes to take part in a charity Ramadan tournament. “This is Bahrain’s second-biggest tournament of its type and it is now in its 19th edition. This annual event is held in honour of the late Faisal Abdulhameed, a key player for Al Najma Club and the national bowling team in the late 80s and 90s,” says event organiser, Mohammed Fulad. “Previous years have seen around 70 or 80 bowlers participate, and this year should be no different,” he advises. “The competition is an individual event, rather than a team game; each bowler has a trial, which includes three games. Every day of the tournament approximately 50-60 trials will take place. We invite all players, regardless of their age or expertise, to take part as handicap points will be given to bowlers according to their skill level.” But there is hope for those who do not do well during their first trial; all participants can attempt their three games as many times as they wish, as only the best three trials will be considered. The top 24 bowlers will advance to the final round in the hope of being crowned this year’s champion. The players finishing with the highest aggregate score will receive cash prizes in recognition of their success. “The total prize money allocated for this tournament is US$11,000. The overall champion will receive US$3,000 and there will also be prizes for top 24 bowlers in addition to daily prizes for each day’s high scores,” explains Mohammed. Anyone can enter into the tournament at any point; simply register at the Funland reception. Aside from providing family fun during the holy month, the tournament will additionally serve as a fund-raiser. Donations are raised through both personal and company sponsorship; the charity the funds will be given to has not yet been determined. Each participant will pay BD5 plus an additional BD5 for each trial undertaken. Mohammed urges all to come along; “We recommend all members of the public to watch parts (or all!) of this family event. Since I have been managing this competition for the past 11 years, I have seen numerous families take part and support one another; it’s a great activity to celebrate Ramadan with,” he says. E Call 17 292-313. A Decisive Aim When? 1st-20th day of Ramadan | Event? Charity bowling tournament | Venue? Funland Centre When? During Ramadan Event? Seef Mall Ramadan Track Series Venue? Bahrain National Stadium The Bahrain Road Runners never seem to stop; despite this month being the start of Ramadan and one of the hottest months of the year, the athletic group is getting together for the Seef Mall Ramadan Track Series. Held at the National Stadium, all are welcome to take part in any one of three separate races. One evening will hold a 400m race, another an 800m and finally the day will hold the ultimate test, the 1,500m. The dates are yet to be confirmed so keep checking the group’s website for confirmation. E Visit www. bahrainroadrunners.com. 2011 charity bowling tournament A Ramadan Run
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