As I have noted in my previous posts, the Executive has approved the use of rakes and mats on a voluntary basis, effective Monday July 20th, 2020.

Again, the use of rakes and mats is voluntary. One lead must volunteer to use the rake for the entire game/practice and ensure it is disinfected after its use. Two rakes may be used (one at either end), but the same person must use the second rake and disinfect after its use. For the mats to be used a skip and a lead must volunteer to handle the mats and disinfect their hands every time before touching the mat. Only these people will touch the mats. In this fashion only a disinfected hand will touch the mats. If there are not volunteers to handle the mats and rakes then they will not be used. Alternatively, a towel can be used to indicate where a mat would be placed; the skip can move the jack with their foot to a designated spot to begin each end; and a player is designated to move, with their feet, the bowls to the designated spot at the conclusion of an end.

We will monitor the use of rakes and mats and will modify the procedures as required if we find a better way to utilize them.

Ron Harmer

President, Oak Bay Lawn Bowling Club