Umtentweni Bowling Club

Our History

Estab. 1933

On 12 April 1933 nine enthusiasts met at a small beach store in Umtentweni to establish a two-rink bowling club. Work having commenced some months before on the preparation of the green, it was decided that the official opening was to take place on 24 May 1933.

The Umtentweni Bowling Club's green with the clubhouse visible in the back

An interested local resident offered to erect at his own expense (all of £8) a 12 x 10 ft wood and iron shack to serve as a clubhouse. To quote the minutes: “This exceptionally generous offer was unanimously agreed to”.

Water was initially provided from a rainwater tank, later from the club’s own borehole and still later piped from the nearby railway station at an annual fee of 1/–.

The first match was played against the neighbouring Bendigo (now Southport) Club on 16 February 1935. In 1938 the Club was represented in the Natal and Natal Southern Districts Tournament, for the first time. Since then members have regularly participated in local district and provincial tournaments, as well as the nationals.

By May 1939 the green had been increased to full size and at the official opening thereof, green teams from seven local clubs joined in the celebrations. The Club’s golden jubilee was proudly celebrated with various functions during the second week of April 1983.