a Major Leaguer

Once dubbed as "the invincibles", today's New Zealand 'All Blacks' rugby team were considered favorites for this year's, Rugby World Cup. The All Blacks lost to England in a major upset last week during their semi-finals match played in Japan.  Why, "the invincibles"?  Because they were and still are.

Fortunately today, I have had that chance to compete in 'Lawn Bowls' alongside one of those greats, the now retired 'All Blacks' and New Zealand's, 1980 Rugby Player of the Year (and my good buddy), Mr. Geoff Old.  As with rugby, Geoff is also a tremendous lawn bowler, and as a Skip, one of Sarasota's Lawn Bowling Club's top players.

This past Friday, Geoff left for Arizona to compete in the nation's lawn bowling, U. S. Open - competing in the Singles & Pairs divisions. Sharing an informal similarity with rugby, a long-standing tradition with lawn bowlers has always been to shake hands before and after play, with players repeating, wishing for each other, "good bowls".

I wish Geoff well.  He's a true gentleman, and still that believer in the 'All Blacks', New Zealand's team motto;  to always be "Humble in Victory and Gracious in Defeat".  He's definitely got that, along with that competitive and firm handshake.


a dapper Geoff on our local greens

Geoff Old - 'All Blacks' Rugby International Team play (1980-1983)