World Bowls is saddened to hear the passing of Garry Tyrrell (Falkland Islands)

Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all at Falkland Bowls.

Message from Chris Locke

Bowls in the Falkland Islands was first played in the 40’s and 50’s however it was not until recently that the sport was resurrected.

Garry was instrumental in rekindling the sport when in 2020 he and a small group got together to form the Falkland Islands Bowls Association after an old set of bowls had been found in the sports hall. A Committee was soon formed and earlier this year Garry took over as Chairman of the Club.

The 2022 Commonwealth Games witnessed Garry’s international debut where he played as Skip in the men’s doubles playing alongside his good friend Chris Locke. Throughout the Commonwealth Games Garry shone a light of friendship and laughter to all he met. His infectious sense of humour alongside his passion for bowls was overwhelming. Perhaps the most memorable occasion was during his final match of the Championships when he won the hearts of the crowds by instigating a Mexican wave followed by intense clapping before he took his final bowl. Perhaps not often seen on the Leamington Spa rinks, but it was Garry’s way of celebrating his love for bowls and sharing his friendship with the crowds.

In the Falklands Garry’s passion for bowls inspired others to take up the game and within a few years the club had grown to include a sizable membership. Last year he and other Club members took it upon themselves to build an outside rink. Up until then the Club had been using the corridore of the main school in Stanley by laying mats on the floor and sticking them down with tape. Building an outside rink in the Falklands was never going to be straightforward but within a few months the foundations had been levelled and a carpet laid. Garry rolled the first bowl and during the following months went on to winning many games. Most recently he played alongside his lifelong friend, Teddy Summers, in the Club’s open doubles match and went on to win gold. Teddy said, Garry regarded this as one of his all-time bowling highlights.

Earlier this year Garry took part in the World Bowls Championships in Australia again playing in the Men’s Doubles but also taking the opportunity to play singles, he was accompanied by his wife Gina who said their time away was a highlight of all the holidays.  A memorable occasion for Falkland Bowls was when Gary beat Namibia 21 18 at the Gold Coast.

Garry will be remembered by the Club for his huge contribution to Falkland bowls. His larger than life character and passion for life. A generous and kind hearted man who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Vale Garry Tyrrell