After a false start last year, North Tamworth says its inaugural men's nines tournament will be staged at Jack Woolaston Oval in March. And one of the people spearheading the event is 93-year-old Jack Woolaston – the definition of the maxim age is just a number.
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Woolaston said the tournament failed to get off the ground last year because of scheduling issues with the clubs, but now its participation was mandatory for all clubs.
“They’ve named it Jack Woolaston’s Nines,” said the Bears’ foundation president. “And I’ve taken on a bit of a job to try and raise funds for it. So far so good.”
He said the March 3 tournament would be a day-nighter under a knockout format and featuring, at this stage, 14 teams including three invitees from outside the Group.
However, clubs can nominate a maximum of two teams, with the winner receiving $2000 and the runner-up $1000. It is hoped another $500 can be raised to be split between the third and fourth-placed teams.
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“It should be a great spectacle,” Woolaston said. “It will be held during the day and the night in summer, and daylight saving will still be on. The finals will be played at night.”
Clubs won’t be charged a participation fee.
A key fundraiser will be the Jack Woolaston Triples at Oxley Bowling Club on November 3. Woolaston has also “been chasing sponsorships”. “At this stage, pretty good,” he said.
The tournament guaranteed teams at least two matches, making it ideal for their pre-season preparation, Woolaston said, adding that the day would include a sprint race featuring a player from each club, as well as lucky draws.
The winner will receive the Jack Woolaston Challenge Shield, although the man himself was hoping for something bigger. “I got it on eBay and I’m a bit disappointed with it,” he said, adding: “It’s small but it’s a lovely trophy.”
