by Irish Bowls Federation
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.
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Publishing Since
12/2/2024
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March 23, 2026
<p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p>
January 1, 2026
<p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p>
December 26, 2025
<p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p><p><br></p><p>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.</p>
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Neil Booth
Guest
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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.
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