The greens at Langebaan Country Estate (LCE) Bowling Club were transformed into a colourful celebration of the 1950s, when bowlers embraced a Grease-themed dress-up day for the final round of the club’s current 242 competition cycle on Thursday 18 June.

According to organiser Sonya Seabrook Uys, the theme was inspired by the iconic 1978 film musical, known for its rock-and-roll soundtrack, classic cars, youthful energy and distinctive fashion.

Participants arrived dressed as members of the T-Birds and Pink Ladies, sporting leather jackets, white T-shirts, slicked-back hairstyles, poodle skirts, polka dots and vintage-inspired outfits.

“The theme proved to be a resounding hit and there was plenty of fun and laughter throughout the day,” said Seabrook Uys.

The event formed part of LCE Bowling Club’s monthly 242 competition, which has become a firm favourite on the local bowling calendar over the past two years. Open to bowlers from all three clubs in the Langebaan area, the competition hosts 24 pairs teams on the third Thursday of every month, filling both of LCE’s greens.

The competition was initially started by LCE member Trevor McCalgan together with Pierre du Toit and Seabrook Uys. The current organising committee consists of Floris Venter, Pierre du Toit and Seabrook Uys.

Seabrook Uys said the success of the competition would not be possible without the support of its loyal sponsors. These include Atubua Construction, Mica Hardware Langebaan, Langebaan Realtors, Mike and Lesley Smyth, Abby’s Hair Salon, Longacres Animal Hospital, Spar Langebaan and OK Mini Mark Langebaan.

“The competition runs from July until June each year and our sponsors play a vital role in making it possible,” she said.

Lawn bowls remains a growing social sport that is open to people of all ages. Seabrook Uys said LCE Bowling Club offers free coaching and welcomes anyone interested in learning the game.

The club also recently hosted the Pro 10 play-offs on 20 June, where four sections consisting of six teams competed for four qualifying places at the Boland finals on 1 August.

Three of the four qualifying spots were secured by LCE bowlers. The successful teams were Herman and Elana Fourie, Johan Snyman and Jaco Uys, and Josie Jones and Ian Rice.

For the organisers the Grease day once again highlighted the social side of the sport and the strong sense of camaraderie that has made the monthly 242 competition such a popular fixture among local bowlers.