#Jack in the Box

About #Jack in the Box

Join us as we discuss the latest news, prevalent issues, and everything in between surrounding our beloved sport. Hear from special guests, featured experts, and engaging panel discussions - this podcast has it all. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or just getting started, there's something for everyone.

Publisher

Irish Bowls Federation

Category

sports

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

2 Dec 2024

Latest episode

14 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Oct 2026

   New Beginnings: Life after Football & Hockey

   Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland return with an episode celebrating new chapters and transitions, as the Irish bowls calendar shifts from outdoor to indoor season. The hosts open with reflection on the conclusion of the Commonwealth Games, celebrating the gold medal achievements of Adam McKeown and Gary Kelly representing Northern Ireland. This triumphant moment caps off an extraordinary competition that has showcased Irish bowls talent on the global stage. The conversation then pivots toward the future as the hosts look ahead to the start of the indoor season, previewing the upcoming PBA qualifiers that will kick off a new phase of competitive bowls. They also look back on the conclusion of the outdoor season with final coverage of the Men’s and Women’s Irish Cups. The episode includes recognition of the Para bowls achievements with coverage of the Para singles winners and reflection on the Para development test match in Scotland. In a solemn moment, the hosts pause to remember Mary Stevenson, a recent Scottish para gold medalist who competed in that test match and has since passed away. Her memory and legacy in para bowls will be cherished by the community. Looking forward with optimism, the hosts discuss the exciting disability hubs being developed at The Grove and Ballybrakes CIBC, expanding opportunities for para bowlers. They also highlight upcoming VI director training, further strengthening the support system for visually impaired players. Continuing the “Legend’s Corner” series, Ian unveils the final rink of the all-time Ireland bowls legends team, completing the dream squad that has been constructed throughout the season. The hosts also recap the ongoing club surveys gathering feedback from across Irish bowls. The interview segment welcomes two players embarking on new beginnings in bowls: Paddy Mallon and Grace Henry. Their stories are unique - both have transitioned from successful careers in other sports, Paddy from Football and Grace from Hockey, to embrace bowls at this stage of their sporting lives. Ian and Chris explore how each player discovered bowls and what drew them to make this transition. The conversation delves into the motivations behind leaving established sports to pursue bowling, and what they’ve found to love about the game. They discuss how bowls compares to their previous sporting experiences and what makes this transition feel right for them. Looking ahead, Mallon and Henry share their aspirations for their bowling futures and offer their perspectives on what the sport needs to do to continue attracting players from other sporting backgrounds. Their insights as recent converts provide valuable perspective on bowls’ appeal beyond traditional pathways. The episode concludes with both guests taking on the “#Jack in the Box Perfect Irish Bowler” challenge, drawing on their unique experience as athletes transitioning from other sports. From celebrating Commonwealth gold to welcoming new voices and perspectives, this episode embodies the spirit of new beginnings and the sport’s ability to attract talent from diverse sporting backgrounds.

2. 

   18 Aug 2026

   Beyond The Green

   Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland return with an episode that goes beyond the green to explore club development and community engagement in Irish bowls. The hosts open with comprehensive coverage of recent competitions and upcoming events. They recap the Women's Inter-Association Series before looking ahead to the Men's Series coming to Dublin. They then highlight the inaugural Irish Para Championships, a landmark event showcasing the growing presence of para bowls in Ireland's competitive landscape. The conversation turns to the ongoing Irish Cup drama, with the hosts examining which teams remain in contention and offering their predictions for the semi-finals - both potential winners and potential disappointments. They also provide a quick update on the upcoming Association Finals, keeping listeners informed on all fronts of elite competition. Continuing the popular "Legend's Corner" segment, Chris announces his next rink of Irish bowls greats, adding further depth to the all-time legends team being constructed throughout the season. The episode's primary focus shifts from competition to sustainability, exploring club development and what it takes to build thriving bowling communities. The hosts discuss upcoming surveys designed to gather feedback from clubs and remind the bowling community about the Club Development Toolkit - a valuable resource for clubs looking to grow membership and enhance their operations. The interview segment welcomes two club development champions: Joel Shannon from Ulster Transport BC and Michael Waterman from Warrenpoint BC. These two club leaders share practical insights into what they've been doing at their own clubs to attract new members and actively engage with their local communities. The conversation covers the tangible strategies, initiatives, and programs they've implemented to make their clubs vibrant community spaces. Beyond their own successes, Shannon and Waterman offer ideas for further enhancing clubs and provide valuable tips and advice for other clubs looking to follow their lead in club development and community engagement. The episode concludes with both guests taking on the "#Jack in the Box Perfect Irish Bowler" challenge, drawing on their experience in building strong club cultures to construct their ideal player. From competition coverage to community building, this episode embraces what it means to go "Beyond the Green" - recognizing that thriving bowls communities are built on engagement, inclusivity, and sustainable club development strategies.

3. 

   4 Aug 2026

   Silver Stars

   Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland return with an exciting episode celebrating youth success and reflecting on the Commonwealth Games action so far. The hosts open with celebration of Ireland's medal successes at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, providing detailed analysis of the competition format and reflecting on an impressive first week of action. After a brief hiatus from the podcast, they transition to a reflective lookback on Irish bowls history, paying tribute to hall of famers Sammy Allen and Jim Baker, honoring their incredible contributions to the sport. The episode covers significant recent competitions, including the 15-man inter-association event, the British Isles International Series, and the British Isles Championships, providing comprehensive analysis of results and standout performances. The focus then shifts to the future of Irish bowls and the exciting opportunities being created for young players. The hosts spotlight the schools program being led by Nigel Moffett around Rathfrisland, showcasing grassroots initiatives bringing the game to younger audiences. They examine the various pathways available for kids looking to develop their skills, including the Junior Premier League (JPL) and dedicated pathway days designed to nurture emerging talent. A major highlight of the episode is celebrating the U18 International Series team's historic achievement of claiming a silver medal for the first time - a significant milestone that demonstrates the quality and potential of Ireland's youngest elite players. The interview segment welcomes four standout players from the U18 International Series: Taylor Davidson, Adam Copeland, Brooke Stirling, and Will Calvin. These young stars share their reflections on competing in the series, discussing the camaraderie and bonds formed while representing Ireland at the international level. The conversation explores how each player first got into bowls, revealing diverse pathways into the sport. More importantly, they offer their own ideas and perspectives on how to attract more young players into bowls, providing genuine insights from players actively experiencing youth engagement in the game. The episode concludes with all four young players taking on the "#Jack in the Box Perfect Irish Bowler" challenge, drawing on their emerging experience at the elite level to construct their ideal player. From Commonwealth Games glory to celebrating hall of famers, and from grassroots development to the rising stars of tomorrow, this episode showcases Irish bowls at every level - with particular emphasis on the silver-winning U18 generation that represents the sport's bright future.

4. 

   23 Mar 2026

   The Young Guns

   Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland open this episode with somber reflection, paying tribute to Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games gold medalist Freda Elliott, who passed away at the remarkable age of 99. Her legacy in Irish bowls will be remembered and celebrated by the community. The hosts then provide comprehensive coverage of the busy period since the last episode, recapping results from the Irish Finals, the British Isles Championships and Internationals. They analyze performances from both the men's and ladies U25 International Series before turning to the historic Para International Series, where Ireland celebrated a memorable victory over England. The episode covers important off-green developments, including the new Club Development Toolkit designed to help clubs grow and thrive, and the Women in Sport Spotlight Series that celebrates female participation in bowls. The hosts also examine the outdoor Irish Cup draws, building anticipation for the upcoming season. Continuing their popular "Legend's Corner" segment, Ian reveals his selections for the first rink of the all-time Irish bowls legends team, adding to the dream team that Chris began building in the previous episode. The main feature brings fresh energy and perspective to the podcast as three of Ireland's brightest young talents join the conversation. Isobel-Ruby Nolan (17), Graci Cassley (17), and Daniel Spratt (20) share their experiences and insights as the next generation of Irish bowls. The young players discuss how they first discovered bowls and detail their careers to date, showcasing the achievements they've already accumulated at such young ages. They speak candidly about the enjoyment they get from playing the sport and the friendships they've formed through competing in younger age groups, highlighting the social aspect that makes bowls special. In a valuable segment for the future of the sport, the trio offer their perspectives on what bowls can do to attract more young players. Their insights as active participants in youth bowls provide genuine, ground-level understanding of what works and what could be improved to grow the game among younger demographics. The episode concludes with all three young players taking on the "#Jack in the Box Perfect Bowler" challenge, offering their unique perspectives on what makes an ideal player - perspectives shaped by their experience as the sport's emerging talents. From honoring legends past to celebrating the stars of tomorrow, this episode captures the full spectrum of Irish bowls - remembering those who built the sport while showcasing the young guns who will carry it forward.

5. 

   1 Jan 2026

   Kelly's Eye Number 1 (Part 2)

   Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland return with the second part of their festive special, concluding their compelling interview with Gary Kelly and looking ahead to an exciting year in Irish bowls. The hosts open by previewing the year ahead, with the major event being the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. They discuss team selection processes and address the disappointing news that Irish para athletes will not be competing at the event. On a positive note, they celebrate the confirmation that bowls will be included in the 2030 Commonwealth Games, securing the sport's future on the international stage. Team selection continues to feature as the hosts examine the newly announced men's U25 squad and discuss the senior men's international trial process that will determine Ireland's elite team. The episode introduces an exciting new segment - "Legend's Corner" - where Ian and Chris look back at the greats of Irish bowls history. In this inaugural edition, Chris reveals his selections for the first rink of an all-time legends team, sparking what promises to be an entertaining ongoing series. The spotlight returns to Gary Kelly for the conclusion of his remarkable story. Kelly shares the fascinating details of his move to Australia, explaining how the opportunity arose and the impact it had on his career development. He discusses the Australian bowls scene and how competing at that level elevated his game. The conversation turns to his Commonwealth Games selection and Kelly candidly reflects on whether his move to Australia influenced the selectors' decision. He opens up about the immense pressure he felt to win a medal and the overwhelming relief of securing silver. Kelly's honesty about the mental challenges of elite competition provides valuable insights into the psychological demands faced by top athletes. Following his Commonwealth success, Kelly recounts his achievements at the subsequent World Bowls Championships, where he captured both gold and silver medals - career-defining moments that cemented his status among Ireland's bowling elite. Looking to the future, Kelly reveals his burning ambition to achieve the one medal that has eluded him - Commonwealth Games gold. The conversation explores his aspirations and dedication to reaching this goal. The discussion also touches on the intriguing possibility of bowls being included in the Olympic Games and what that could mean for the sport and for Kelly's career. The episode concludes with Gary taking on the "#Jack in the Box Perfect Irish Bowler" challenge, using his wealth of international experience to construct his ideal player. From looking ahead to Glasgow 2026, celebrating legends of the past, and completing Gary Kelly's inspirational journey, this New Year's Day special provides the perfect blend of nostalgia, achievement, and anticipation for the exciting year ahead in Irish bowls.

6. 

   26 Dec 2025

   Kelly's Eye Number 1 (Part 1)

   Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland kick off a festive two-part Christmas and New Year special, featuring one of Ireland’s most accomplished international bowlers, Gary Kelly. The hosts begin with celebratory coverage of the World Bowls Junior International Series held at CAIBC, where Ireland crowned another world champion as Lara Reaney captured the women’s singles title. The triumphant theme continues with coverage of the Atlantic Senior Fours event in Cyprus, where the Irish ladies returned home with gold medals. The hosts also discuss the inaugural Mixed Pairs competition before turning their attention to Gary Kelly’s recent success on the World Bowls Series. Gary Kelly joins the podcast to discuss his remarkable recent achievements, including the outstanding performance of Warilla at the UBC. The conversation then rewinds to explore Kelly’s extraordinary early career, revealing how he first discovered bowls and achieved success at an incredibly young age - winning the British Isles U25 Singles at just 14 years old and making his international debut at 16. The interview traces Kelly’s impressive journey through the ranks, from his roots at Ballymoney through Provincial Towns representation and onto the Ireland senior team, culminating in Commonwealth Games bronze in Delhi. His progression to elite level showcases the dedication and talent that has defined his career. In a candid and emotional segment, Kelly opens up about the challenging lows of his career - the disappointment of not being selected for the 2012 World Championships and missing out on the 2014 Commonwealth Games. These setbacks tested his resolve and passion for the sport. The conversation then celebrates Kelly’s inspiring comeback to the international scene in 2015, highlighted by success at the Atlantic Rim competition. This resurgence led to selection for the 2016 World Championships in New Zealand and the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast. Throughout the interview, Gary and Ian share entertaining stories and memorable moments from these international trips, with Kelly emphasizing his immense pride in representing Ireland on the world stage. His passion for wearing the green shirt comes through as he reflects on the honour and responsibility of international competition. This Boxing Day special offers listeners an intimate look at the highs, lows, and triumphs of one of Ireland’s finest bowlers before his journey to live in Australia – which follows in Part 2 on New Years Day.

7. 

   1 Dec 2025

   Boss Hogg

   Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland deliver a jam-packed episode celebrating Irish success on the world stage and introducing a new era in Irish indoor bowls management. The hosts open with comprehensive coverage of recent Irish triumphs, leading with David Copeland's spectacular Champion of Champions victory, crowning him as Ireland's newest world champion. They analyze Irish performances at the World Cup in Malaysia before turning their attention to the results from the Hong Kong Classic and reflecting on the memorable multi-nations trip to Canada. On the domestic front, the episode covers the recent Inter-Stadium Series and Potters qualifiers, with exciting news of local players securing their spots for Potters in January. Team selection announcements feature prominently as the hosts discuss the newly selected Under 18 squad, alongside the ladies U25 and senior teams who will be representing Ireland in upcoming competitions. The short mat internationals receive detailed coverage before the hosts look ahead to two major events on the horizon: the World Bowls Junior Indoor Championship at the Jim Baker Stadium and the Atlantic Senior Fours in Cyprus. These competitions promise to showcase Irish talent across multiple age groups and disciplines. The conversation then addresses recent managerial changes within Irish bowls, providing the perfect segue to this week's featured guest - Colin Hogg, the newly appointed men's Irish Indoor team manager. In this insightful interview, Hogg takes listeners through his early playing career, candidly discussing both the highs and lows he experienced as a competitor. This personal journey provides valuable context for his transition into management and shapes his unique perspective on the role. Hogg opens up about his vision for the men's indoor team, discussing his philosophy, what he brings to the position based on his playing experience, and his aspirations for Irish bowls at the international level. His passion for developing players and building team culture comes through as he outlines his approach to the demanding role of team manager. The episode concludes with Hogg taking on the challenge of naming his perfect Irish bowler, drawing on his extensive experience both as a player and now as a manager to construct his ideal combination of skills and attributes. From world championship glory to new leadership, and from domestic success to international ambition, this episode marks an exciting new chapter in Irish indoor bowls.

8. 

   13 Sept 2025

   The Crumlin Star

   Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland return with a comprehensive roundup of the incredibly busy world of Irish bowls, covering everything from championship finals to international competitions. The hosts kick off with extensive coverage of recent events, starting with the men's and ladies' Irish finals held at CYM Bowling Club and Lurgan Bowling Club respectively. They examine the team competitions in both the men's and ladies' Irish cups before turning their attention to international action. The episode provides detailed analysis of the U18 International Series and the Ladies Inter-Association Series, alongside coverage of the men's junior inter-association competition. Looking ahead, they preview the upcoming U25 International Series in Ayr, building excitement for Ireland's young talent on the international stage. The hosts also recap the IBF Junior Premier League and the U21 Mixed and Open Pairs events, showcasing the depth of competition across all age groups. They conclude their news segment with discussion of the vacant roles within the IWBA and AIIB organizations. The spotlight then turns to an inspiring interview with Sarah Kelly from Crumlin Bowling Club, a distinguished Irish international with multiple national titles and extensive elite experience. Kelly opens up about the central role family plays in her bowls journey, sharing how she met her husband through the sport and discussing the invaluable support system her family provides. In a touching segment, Kelly reflects on her most memorable career moments, including winning four Irish pairs titles alongside her mother Noleen and her triumphant British Isles Singles title victory last year. These achievements highlight not only her individual excellence but also the special family bonds that bowls can create. The conversation delves into Kelly's motivations and future aspirations, exploring her thoughts on how to move the game forward and attract new participants. Her passion for developing the sport shines through as she shares her vision for Irish bowls. The episode concludes with Sarah taking on the entertaining "Jack in the Box Perfect Irish Bowler" challenge, offering her unique perspective on what makes an ideal player based on her years of experience at the highest level. From championship drama to family legacy, and from international competition to future vision, this episode captures the rich tapestry of Irish bowls through the eyes of one of its most accomplished players.

9. 

   13 Aug 2025

   Mr & Mrs 100, Cup Magic & The Big Cheeses

   Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland deliver a milestone episode featuring historic achievements and behind-the-scenes insights into Irish bowls. The hosts open with a detailed review of the Para International Series at Leamington Spa, where Ireland participated for the first time, marking a significant moment in the development of Irish para bowls. They analyze the performances and discuss what this participation means for the future of the sport. The conversation then turns to the current state of this year's Irish Cup competitions, with all three categories - senior, intermediate, and junior cups - having reached the exciting semi-final stages. The hosts provide comprehensive coverage of the progress across all three competitions and offer their predictions for the upcoming semi-final matches. The episode's first guest segment features the remarkable husband and wife duo Gary and Donna McCloy, who achieved the extraordinary feat of both reaching 100 caps for Ireland during the same international series. This historic milestone makes them a unique couple in Irish bowls history. The McCloys share their journey to this achievement and reveal major news about their careers that will captivate listeners. The conversation with the McCloys also covers their triumphant Irish Cup success last year, winning the competition for the first time, and discusses their impressive current run in this year's competition as they aim to defend their title. The second guest segment shifts focus to the administrative heart of Irish bowls, featuring Jennifer Dowds (IWBA Secretary) and Colin Campbell (IBA Secretary). These dedicated officials provide valuable insights into their crucial roles within the sport, revealing the complexities and challenges of managing bowls at the highest level. They discuss the day-to-day responsibilities that keep Irish bowls functioning smoothly, from organizing competitions to managing player selections and coordinating with international bodies. The conversation explores what they bring to the game beyond administration, their current initiatives to grow and improve the sport, and their ambitious hopes for the future development of Irish bowls. Listeners get a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work that makes elite competition possible. From historic para bowls participation to administrative vision, and from personal milestones to cup competition excitement, this episode captures the diverse elements that drive Irish bowls forward.

10. 

    18 Jul 2025

    Marty The Machine (Uncovered)

    Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland return with comprehensive coverage of the latest Irish bowls developments and an inspiring interview with one of the sport's most dedicated players. The hosts kick off with analysis of the Men's Inter-Association competition and its crucial role in the subsequent Men's International Team selection. They examine how Irish players performed at the British Bowls Championships and International Series, with particular focus on several players who reached significant milestones in terms of international caps. The episode also reviews the successful test match against Jersey and looks ahead to the highly anticipated test match against England in Dublin, providing insights into team preparations and expectations. The spotlight then turns to an extraordinary interview with Marty McHugh, affectionately known as "The Machine." This compelling conversation celebrates McHugh's recent achievement of earning his 100th cap for Ireland, a milestone that speaks to his remarkable longevity and consistency at the highest level of the sport. McHugh takes listeners on a journey through his stellar career, from his early beginnings in bowls to his first taste of success, and through his numerous appearances at Commonwealth Games and World Bowls competitions. The interview reveals what drives this exceptional athlete to continue competing at elite level, exploring the hunger and determination that has sustained him throughout his career. In a deeply personal segment, McHugh discusses the central role his family plays in his success and opens up about the sacrifices that elite players and their families must make in pursuit of sporting excellence. His candid reflections provide valuable insights into the dedication required to compete at international level. The episode concludes with McHugh's take on the "#Jack in the Box Perfect Bowler" challenge, where he selects Irish-born players to construct his ideal bowler, offering unique perspectives shaped by his extensive experience competing alongside and against Ireland's finest players. From international competition updates to personal stories of dedication and sacrifice, this episode captures the essence of what it means to represent Ireland at the highest level of bowls.

11. 

    4 Jun 2025

    Nelly: A Load of Bowls (Part 2)

    High Performance Coach Neil "Nelly" Booth discusses his transition from player to coach, his coaching philosophy, and his vision for the future of Irish bowls in this interview with Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland.

12. 

    14 May 2025

    Nelly: A Load of Bowls (Part 1)

    Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland present the first installment of an extraordinary two-part interview with one of Ireland's greatest bowls legends, Neil Booth. The episode opens with a comprehensive wrap-up of the indoor season, as the hosts analyze the performances at the British Isles Championships and International Series in Llanelli. They also examine the highlights from the World Indoor Singles and Mixed Pairs in Aberdeen, providing insights into the Irish performances and standout moments from these prestigious competitions. The spotlight then turns to an in-depth interview with Neil "Nelly" Booth, exploring his remarkable playing career that stands as one of the most decorated in Irish bowls history. This candid conversation takes listeners through Booth's journey across 65 international caps indoor and 79 international caps outdoor, examining the discipline, dedication, and skill that led to his extraordinary success. The hosts and Booth revisit his five Commonwealth Games appearances, where he secured an impressive medal haul of one gold, two silver, and one bronze. They delve into his four World Bowls Championships, which yielded one gold and three bronze medals, discussing the pivotal moments and challenges faced at the pinnacle of the sport. The interview also covers Booth's outstanding domestic achievements, including his 10 PGL titles, Irish Fours, and British Fours in outdoor competition, alongside 14 Irish titles, a British Isles Singles title, and British Isles Fours crown indoors. Through personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes insights, and reflections on career-defining moments, this episode provides an intimate portrait of one of the sport's most accomplished figures and sets the stage for Part 2, which will explore his transition to coaching.

13. 

    14 Mar 2025

    Spotlight on Club Growth

    Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland are back to deliver an action-packed episode focused on one of the most crucial aspects of the sport - growing club membership and creating sustainable bowls communities. The hosts open with comprehensive coverage of recent competitions, analyzing Ireland's performance in the Para test match against Wales and breaking down the results from both the Men's and Women's Junior International Series. They also examine the outdoor Irish Cup draws, offering insights and predictions for the upcoming season. The episode's main focus turns to club development, as the hosts discuss the upcoming Club Development Plan that aims to strengthen bowls at the grassroots level across Ireland. This segment provides valuable context for the episode's featured interviews. Adrian Thompson of Dungiven and Elizabeth Blair of Pickie Bowls Club share their inspiring success stories of club growth through two distinct approaches. These in-depth conversations reveal the practical strategies, challenges, and triumphs of building membership and creating vibrant club environments. Listeners will hear firsthand accounts of what works, what doesn't, and how different clubs can adapt these lessons to their own circumstances. Whether you're a club official looking for growth strategies, a player interested in the future of the sport, or simply curious about how bowls clubs are evolving to meet modern challenges, this episode offers valuable insights into securing the future of bowls in Ireland through grassroots development. From international competition results to practical club-building wisdom, Episode 6 provides a comprehensive look at the present and future of Irish bowls.

14. 

    31 Jan 2025

    The Power of Sport

    In this compelling episode, hosts Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland take listeners on a journey through the diverse landscape of Irish bowls, from elite competition to inspirational para sports. Opening with a spotlight on the World Indoor Bowls Championships at Potters, the hosts analyze Jason Banks' standout performance before turning their attention to the emerging talent in the U18 international series. The local scene gets its due coverage with updates from the Belfast Indoor Bowls Bowlathon and the County Antrim Marcus Craig Trophy, alongside a preview of the eagerly anticipated Inter-Stadium Series. Looking to the future, they discuss the promising selections for both the Men's and Ladies U25 teams as they prepare for their upcoming international competitions. The episode's highlight is a powerful conversation exploring the world of para bowls through three unique perspectives. Brian Smyth shares his journey as a physically disabled athlete, while visually impaired player Peter Cullinan and VI director Johnny Adams provide insights into the partnership and determination required in visually impaired bowls. Their stories showcase not just the challenges faced, but the transformative power of sport and the strong community spirit within Irish bowls. In a moment of light-hearted fun, Brian Smyth rounds off the episode by crafting his ideal 'Jack in the Box' perfect bowler, drawing from his unique perspective and experience in the sport. This episode stands as a testament to the inclusive nature of bowls and its ability to bring people together across all levels of the sport.

15. 

    8 Jan 2025

    The Girl from Limavegas (Part 2)

    Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland dive into an episode packed with international bowls action and the conclusion of their fascinating interview with Shauna O'Neill. The hosts kick off with an analysis of the Irish Men's and Ladies' teams selected for the upcoming BIIBC International Series in Llanelli, Wales this March. They dissect the team selections and discuss Ireland's prospects in this prestigious competition. Attention then turns to the World Indoor Bowls Championships at Potters, with a preview of Irish interest in the competition. The hosts examine Adam McKeown's singles campaign and assess the chances of Matthew Crawford and Mark Foster in the pairs competition. They also look ahead to an important para test match against England, highlighting Ireland's growing presence in para bowls. The episode features the eagerly anticipated second part of the interview with Shauna O'Neill. She shares her experiences of competing in Australia, revealing how the opportunity arose and the impact it had on her game. O'Neill provides an intimate look at her preparation for the World Championships in Australia, building up to her remarkable achievement of securing a Bronze medal. In the lighter segments of the interview, O'Neill takes on the "6 in Sixty" challenge, testing her bowls knowledge against the clock. She also takes up the creative task of constructing her version of the perfect Irish female bowler, offering unique insights into the qualities she believes make a top-class player. The interview concludes with O'Neill discussing her future aspirations and upcoming competitions, giving listeners a glimpse of what's next for this accomplished international player. From team selections to international championships, and from personal achievements to future ambitions, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the exciting world of Irish bowls through multiple lenses.

16. 

    1 Jan 2025

    The Girl from Limavegas (Part 1)

    Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland return with a diverse and engaging episode that celebrates both championship victories and rising stars in Irish bowls. The episode begins with a comprehensive review of the Irish National Championships, as the hosts break down the victories and standout performances from both the men's and ladies' competitions. They follow this with an in-depth analysis of Ireland's showing at the Junior World Championships in Hong Kong, highlighting the achievements of the next generation of Irish bowling talent. The conversation then shifts to an important discussion about women in sport, setting the stage for part one of an inspiring interview with one of Ireland's leading female players, Shauna O'Neill. In this first instalment of the interview, O'Neill shares her personal journey in bowls, from her early introduction to the sport through to her current status as an elite player. She recounts the memorable moment of first wearing the green shirt for Ireland and describes her progression through the ranks into the high-performance squad. O'Neill provides listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at her path to the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where she proudly represented Northern Ireland. She discusses the challenges, triumphs, and pivotal moments that shaped her journey to competing at one of the sport's biggest stages. Whether you're interested in championship bowls, the development of young talent, or the growing role of women in the sport, this episode offers compelling insights into the diverse and evolving world of Irish bowls. Stay tuned for part two of Shauna O'Neill's interview in the next episode.

17. 

    6 Dec 2024

    The Brain Under the Microscope (Part 2)

    Hosts Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland return with another action-packed episode of the Irish Bowls Podcast, bringing listeners an insider's view of the Irish bowling scene. The episode kicks off with an in-depth preview of the upcoming Mens and Ladies Irish Championship Finals. Prepare for 'Mystic Chris' as he unleashes his expert predictions across the men's competitions, offering listeners an exciting glimpse into the potential outcomes of these crucial championships. The much-anticipated second part of the interview with Adam McKeown delves into his Australian adventure. McKeown shares the fascinating story of how his move to Australia came about, providing listeners with an intimate look at the journey that led him to Tweed Heads. He discusses the connections with other Irish bowlers who have also made Australia their temporary or permanent bowling home. McKeown offers insights into his experience with the Tweed Heads Bowls Club, revealing the unique opportunities and challenges of playing in the Australian bowls scene. He describes the incredible support system he found there, with club members and staff embracing him like family away from home. McKeown explains how the club's camaraderie, mentorship, and welcoming environment were crucial to his success, helping him navigate the challenges of being an international player far from home. The highlight of the interview focuses on his World Championship gold medal victory. McKeown reveals how his time in Australia was instrumental in his success, discussing the high-level competitive environment, different playing conditions, and the invaluable experience gained from competing against top international players. He shares how the Australian bowls scene provided him with a unique training ground that ultimately prepared him for his world-level triumph. Drawing from his international experience, McKeown opens up about the personal and professional challenges he's overcome throughout his career. He provides candid advice for young players looking to make their mark in the sport and shares his passionate perspective on developing and improving bowls in Ireland, offering constructive ideas to grow the game and support emerging talent. In a final quick-fire segment, McKeown takes on the challenge of creating the 'Perfect Irish Bowler'. He breaks down the ideal combination of technical skill, mental strength, and tactical awareness that would make the ultimate bowls player. The episode concludes with the entertaining "6 in Sixty" segment. McKeown faces a rapid-fire challenge of six quick-fire questions that will test his bowls knowledge and reveal a more personal side of this champion athlete. Whether you're a passionate bowls enthusiast or a casual listener, this episode promises entertainment, insight, and inspiration from the world of Irish bowls.

18. 

    2 Dec 2024

    The Brain Under the Microscope (Part 1)

    Hosts Ian McClure & Chris Mulholland delve into the world of Irish bowls, featuring exclusive insights into top players' performances and an in-depth interview with World and Commonwealth Gold Medalist Adam McKeown.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

224,530

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Spotify

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 30 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

15

Social presence

0

YouTube

82

Engagement

32