Some might consider Webbcona lawn bowlers Jim Waight and Keith Ward “golden oldies” of the sport.
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Do not mention it to the octogenarians though.
They attest to the old saying – you’re only as old as you feel.
They certainly do not put themselves in the “golden oldies” bracket yet, although they plan to one day get there.
The long-time Webbcona clubmates are sharing a special time on the bowling greens at the moment.
Waight has just ticked over 800 weekend pennant games and Ward joins the “800 Club” on Saturday.
Ward will bring up the milestone playing in the same division six rink as Waight against Sebastopol in the Ballarat District Bowls Division.
Each remains as keen as ever.
Waight, 84, is a foundation member at Webbcona, which was formed in 1970.
He launched his pennant career in 1971-72 and quickly made his mark on and off the greens, rising to club president in 1976.
Six premierships are right at the top of his achievements, but Waight is also extremely proud of his two club singles titles, a pairs championship, two president’s handicaps and two singles 100-up titles.
Ward, 85, was not among the foundation members at Webbcona – he was still playing cricket at the time – but he was not far away and started playing pennant in the same season as Waight 45 years ago..
Ward has gone on to chalk up nine pennant titles and two WBC Tasmanian Handicaps.
He was also president for one term.
Outside playing, Waight and Ward have been key contributors to the region’s junior program.
Ward said it had been a chance opportunity more than 20 years ago that resulted in it being formed.
He said a team from New South Wales visiting Ballarat requested a junior challenge.
Ward said a call was put out for players, with an excellent response being the beginnings the now BDBD Gold Diggers.
Waight remains a key player in the program.
He says being involved with the youngsters helps maintain his enthusiasm for bowls.
Waight and Ward said the friendships they had formed in the sport was among the reasons they continued in the sport.
They said while they enjoyed winning, winning was not everything, with the enjoyment of playing with and against friends a major drawcard.
Ward said it was a great way to keep in touch socially – people you otherwise not see on a regular basis.
