RAIN blighted the traditional start of the York outdoor bowls season with the annual match between teams representing York Amateur Bowling Association and the Club & Institute Leagues restricted to just ten ends.

By that point YABA led by four and therefore retained the trophy which was presented by C&I secretary Malcolm Dewhurst to Billy Brookes, the YABA vice-president.

RI Amateurs, undefeated last season, have started the YABA first division with a bang posting three straight wins. Their biggest test will be next when they visit last year’s runners-up Selby.

Wetherby, promoted last year, are finding life difficult in division two, while Harrogate are setting the pace in the third division.

Secretaries are reminded that the draw for individual competitions is at the Railway Institute club house on Tuesday, May 25, at 8pm. Entries will be taken up to that time.

• There are only five days left before the closing date for entries to the 43rd annual York Open Bowls Tournament.

Players must book their places in the event, which runs from Monday, July 26 to Saturday, July 31, by Wednesday, May 26.

Most of the leading players from last year’s tournament have already entered.

Entry forms have been distributed to outdoor clubs, but entries can also be submitted by phoning secretary Graham Brooke on 01757 248384.

The junior tournament for under-18s will be held on Friday, July 30 and entries can be made on the standard form or by turning up at 10am on the day.

• Clifton have made a flying start to the inaugural Scoop Shop Acomb Sunday Triple League season. They beat Burnholme 17-11 and Clifton 15-14 to lead the way from Railway Corinthians.