The National Bowls Championships bring together fun, competition, and moments to remember forever. Penny Strong, from Burton House BC in Lincolnshire, knows this better than anyone. Penny has won multiple national titles over the years, relishing the moment each time she has lifted silverware.
Penny’s love for bowls began about 40 years ago. “My mum and dad were both very good players and helped me get started,” she says.
That encouragement led Penny to discover her passion for the sport, and she has achieved amazing things since. Playing in a championship event is a special experience. For Penny, it’s an inspiring challenge.
“It’s an honour and exciting,” Penny explains. “You can lose yourself while playing – it makes all your problems go away.”
Out of all her achievements, one victory stands out the most for Penny:
“I was an international player for seven years, but to win a national title puts the icing on the cake. I think the standout was when I won the National Pairs in 2019 with my friend Sheila [Plaskitt]. We were both going through tough times. My mum had just had a stroke, and Sheila’s husband had major heart surgery. We went on to win it, and it was an absolutely amazing feeling.”
After her success in the National Women’s Triples in 2024, alongside teammates Louise Whyers and Annie Dunham, Penny already has her next goal:
“To try and win another National title.”
Penny loves encouraging others to try bowls and take the step to compete. She shared a story about a friend she convinced to enter the Two-Bowl Singles:
“She qualified for Leamington, and she said it was the best thing she’d ever done. Now I can’t hold her back! She just wants to go back again, so she’s entered all the 2025 National Bowls Championships competitions.”
If you’re thinking about entering, Penny’s advice is simple – ‘go for it. The experience is worth it’.
Whether you’re new to bowls or already an experienced player, the National Bowls Championships is suitable for everyone. Enter an event today, and you might find yourself competing at the prestigious Victoria Park greens in August.
Please note, U17 Singles and Disability events will be open for entries at a later date. Check online or across our social channels for more information.