Why Kent County clubs are Divided into Divisions

Kent is one of the largest and most active counties in English bowls, with clubs spread across a wide geographical area — from the Medway towns and North Kent coast to the Weald, Maidstone, and the Dover district in the east.

To make County competitions fair, manageable, and enjoyable for everyone, our clubs are divided into sections based on location rather than playing strength or merit. This ensures that bowlers compete within a reasonable travelling distance, particularly in the early rounds, when matches are most frequent and often played on weekday evenings.

The sectional system helps to:

• Reduce travel time and costs, especially in the early stages of competitions.

• Encourage greater participation from clubs in all corners of the county.

• Simplify administration for Competition Stewards and Divisional Secretaries, who can more easily coordinate fixtures and results within their own areas.

• Strengthen local competition while still ensuring that the best players from each section meet as events progress towards the later rounds and County Finals.

In short, this approach allows Kent’s competitions to run smoothly and fairly across such a large county, keeping the focus on good bowling, friendly rivalry, and shared enjoyment of the game — not endless hours on the A2 or M20!

Men’s and Ladies’ Sections within the KCBA

Although the Kent County Bowling Association operates as a single unified body, we continue to maintain distinct Men’s and Ladies’ Sections. This arrangement allows both sections to organise and manage their own competitions efficiently, while ensuring that each has fair representation at County and National levels. It also means that our Men’s and Ladies’ Presidential teams can proudly support their respective competitors at the National Finals — maintaining tradition, promoting equality, and celebrating the achievements of all Kent bowlers.