Hertfordshire bowlers Alan Spicer and Brian McGivern were in action over the weekend at the SMPT UK Open.  This singles event, held at Falcon IBC, Chelmsford, featured 192 players from 7 different nations.  Alan and Brian had similar records, progressing from the 5 game group stage to the knockout Plate Competition.

The UK Open is a tournament on the Short Mat Players Tour and competitors accumulate points from their results which contribute to their SMPT World Ranking.  Both Alan and Brian gained points from the weekend's play and Alan now stands in his highest ever world ranking position of 277.  Brian is not far behind at 321 in the SMPT world.

SMPT tournaments are open to all bowlers and, if you want to improve your game by pitting yourself against high quality opposition, they are highly recommended.  You may find yourself drawn against international bowlers but, equally, you will be competing with good club level players.  Every competitor plays a series of group games and all progress to one of the three knockout competitions.

If you would like to know more about the Short Mat Players Tour visit their website.  A link is provided on our Events List page.