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BBC Radio 2 Sport Challenge with Chris Evans and Jonny Saunders

by Hayley White

The challenge was being held at All Star Lanes in Brick Lane, which is in East London, getting there seemed to be the first challenge but Chris Hillman (BTBA Technical Committee) worked his way through London exceptionally and got me there safely.

The minute I walked in the venue camera’s and lights were being set up and I was immediately introduced to the director, producer and cameramen. Everyone was friendly and once I got changed in to my Team England shirt and skort the soundman hooked up my microphone and I was properly introduced to Chris and Jonny, who were both so bouncy, energetic and welcoming!

I was also introduced to Andy Puddicombe, who was also taking part in the challenge to help with getting Chris and Jonny “In the Zone”, I thought this would also be a great chance for me to get a few tips. Andy P showed me and Andy James around the venue and it was outstanding, designed to represent a retro American Diner/Bowling Alley. They even had their own pro shop that had an All Stars bowling ball as well as retro All Stars bowling shirts, and other clothing.

The director got us filming and Chris, Jonny, Andy and I went outside for the welcoming scene, and it all came quite naturally, a few takes had to be done, and Chris and Jonny were very supportive to me throughout the whole thing. I found it really fun once we got filming as I felt I could just be myself.

The next scene was at the milkshake bar, where me and Andy explained to Chris and Jonny what we would be teaching them today, obviously I was there to help with their bowling technique and Andy was going to help with their concentration and mental state.

We all then went upstairs to the private bowling lanes which we had hired out for the day, I then showed Chris and Jonny some of the technique they’d need to bowl, this included a standard 4 step approach, how to release the bowl properly and also how to pick up their spares. I demonstrated myself and then they both had a few practice shots before their mental preparation talk with Andy. They even stated themselves that they realise bowling involves a great amount of skill, and were both interested in the game and the many stages that can be involved in a bowlers progress.

After a quick summary of the progress they made, we let them loose on their challenge, and although Chris had shown some early progress Jonny won with his precise technique and mental attitude, I must admit I was glad Jonny won as he had really concentrated on the approach I’d taught him.

Overall the day was great fun and a success as shown by their understanding. The venue; All Star Lanes in Brick Lane, East London were lovely hosts and couldn’t do enough for us all, no matter what was asked of them so I would like to thank them. I would also like to thank Chris Hillman, Andy James and Chris Buck for all their help organising the event.

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