By Rory McKee
DONAGHADEE Bowling Club is set to take centre stage in 2026 after one of its members was voted into a leading position within the sport.
Tommy Cheevers was elected president of the Irish Bowling Association (IBA) for the upcoming year at their Annual General Meeting last month.
Tommy becomes the first Donaghadee member since Jimmy Donaldson in 1998 to take up the office in the all-Ireland governing body, which will see several prestigious events staged at The Commons green on the Millisle Road throughout the season culminating in the Irish Championships in September.
His first official function in the role will be in April for the unfurling of the Association flag at The Commons, which marks the beginning of the new outdoor bowling season.
Tommy, who began bowling in 2001, said he is relishing the opportunity and was keen to point to the emergence of younger talent within the Donaghadee club: “I’ve got a lot out of the sport,” he said.
“Bowling has always been associated with older people but that has totally changed in the last 20 years.
“We have been fortunate at Donaghadee to have a number of young people coming through our ranks, and it’s my hope that they can play a big role in the years ahead.”
Following his election, Tommy praised the efforts of those involved in the sport across the island. “Bowling in Ireland is sustained by the tireless work of our volunteers, officials, clubs and players at every level,” he said.
“I would like to acknowledge and thank all those who give their time and effort so generously to ensure the continued success of the Association. I look forward to meeting many of you over the coming months and to sharing in the enjoyment and camaraderie that makes Irish bowling so special.”
In addition to hosting the Irish Championships, Donaghadee will also be the venue for this year’s Atlantic International Challenge played between Scotland, Ireland, Canada and the USA, while Tommy will represent the Irish Bowling Association at both the British Bowls Championships in Ayr and the British U18 and U25 Internationals in Leamington Spa.
