After the huge success of last year's events, the Brighton Lesbian And Gay Sports Society (BLAGGS) was awarded another Pride grant to host a friendly 10-Pin Bowling Challenge, as part of the Winter Pride festivities! All local LGBT organisations were invited to enter a team.

All the lanes at the Marina Bowlplex had been exclusive booked for the event and by 7:30pm it was already packed with eager competitors! Lots of chatting, laughing and drinking ensued, as well as a bit of bowling as well of course! A;; abilities were welcomed, with no previous experience necessary! This year individuals could also participate, arranging themselves into teams such as the Saucy Hot Pins, the Hockey Belles, Strikey Dikies and even Fingers In - Then Chuck It!

There were also teams from BLAGGS (walking, badminton, swimming...) and Brightonwaves MCC, All Sorts, Brighton Switchboard, Gay Bikers MC, Brighton Bandits, City of Brighton Gay Men's Chorus, 3Sixty and the Rainbow Chorus.

With the games over there was time for a few more drinks before the awards ceremony:

Teams category

• 1st - Gay Bikers Motor Cycle Club - avg score of 130
• 2nd - BLAGSS Badminton Group - 118
• 3rd - BLAGSS Tennis Group - 112
   
  
• Booby Prize for last place - BLAGSS Swimming Group - 70

Individuals category

• 1st - Eddie of Hockey Belles team - 170
• 2nd - Andy of Gay Bikers Motor Cycle Club - 169
• 3rd - Clifford of Gay Bikers Motor Cycle Club - 162

I had such an amazing time, and just can't wait for next year's Winter Pride to take part again. Greg and Kevin, BLAGSS hosts, told me they'll be offering members an opportunity to compete and socialise with other bowlers of all levels on a regular basis. The group meets the third Tuesday of every month, at 7:30pm, Marina Bowlplex, Brighton Marina.

Count me in!