evening telegraph - triplets bowling them over

At just eight years old the Hicks triplets are already taking on all-comers on the bowling green.
Katie, Matthew and Oliver Hicks have become a regular fixture at Irchester Bowls Club since taking up the sport five years ago and are now able to compete officially as full members.And although the game is one normally associated with older players, the youngsters are a popular sight for club members.The trio's grandmother Janet Mears said: "When they were in their prams we used to take them down to watch the bowling and they loved it right from the word go."They wanted to try it when they were toddlers. The bowlers down there gave them small bowls but they were a bit too big for their hands."We have just bought them a set of bowls designed for children of their age. Everybody down at the club loves talking to them, and I think it is nice that they are getting involved with the older generation in this way."The Evening Telegraph first reported on the triplets in 2003, when they were three years old and just as enthusiastic about the game as they are now.Mum Claire Hicks said: "The triplets have always gone down to the club with my dad. They are very keen to do it properly when they are old enough."They are really good kids, most of the time, and it's nice that they can do this together."Katie said: "I enjoy bowling. "I like my turquoise ball, and it is good fun with my brothers."The children are not the only young fans of bowls. Last week the Evening Telegraph reported that pupils from Brooke Weston CTC in Corby were invited to try the game by members of the Stewarts & Lloyds Bowling Club in Occupation Road. The taster has seen many of the pupils pledge to take up the game as a hobby.Tony Alcock MBE, chief executive of Bowls England, said: "It is absolutely great to hear that these children are enjoying bowling so much."Many young people are playing the sport these days and there are a lot of opportunities for young people."I have been at the All England Under 18s Ladies Final in Leamington Spa, and one day I hope to see the triplets at similar events."
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