The SMPT launches its Champions of Champions event this weekend at Etheron Bowling Centre in Broadbottom near Hyde. The event is by invite only, all bowlers who have been SMPT champions over the past few years, and is certain to produce some top class short mat bowling. Two Norfolk bowlers will be competing in the event, Jack Pye and Chris Mann who both play for Wymondham SMBC. Jack Pye, 2018 English Masters Champion, has been drawn in Group A with Gary McNabb, Alex Kley, Joel Hager, Jonathan Payne, Stephen Proctor & James Trott. Chris Mann, 2013 European Champion, is in Group B with Gary Burke, Sam Harvey, Stephen Williams, Benny Sjorgren, Sibe Laureys & Dimitri Payne. Group C comprises of Alastair McCrea, Marcus Almen, Cecil Dillon, Peter Roberts, Nigel Nicholls, Lawrence Moffat & Andrew Leckey. In Group D are Edward Sawbridge, James Bucknall, Mark Beattie, Matty Worden, Morten-Andre Coll, PJ McCrossan & Robert Martin.
The SMPT website carries the following information.
“We are thrilled to announce the debut of a brand-new competition that will include the best players in the world in our particular sport. We will be holding a two-day Champion of Champions event on March 15th and 16th, 2025. Past SMPT singles event winners will compete for the title of Ultimate Champion and a sizeable financial prize pool; the winner will get £2500. Set in the lovely Peak district village of Broadbottom, near Manchester, and hosted at the Etherow Indoor Bowling Centre, we will provide you with unparalleled coverage of this tournament, including multi-mat, professional live streaming via Facebook & Youtube, live interviews, and much more! Mark Beattie, who is the most successful player in SMPT events with seven titles, is quoted as saying “I’m delighted to be able to take part in the upcoming SMPT Champion of Champions.” He added “when looking down the list of past champions, there are some fantastic singles players on it, and I have no doubt it will produce some great matches that the fans can watch live with the great coverage on offer”
Chris Mann
Jack Pye