Yorkshire Merit history makers

Memories

Adding to this year's achievement of James Hanson collecting his third Yorkshire Merit title with this piece submitted by Dave Parkin along with some great memory Peter Muff clippings from the Huddersfield Examiner.

Dave Parkin ....

Chuffed to bits to be messaged today by James Hanson to be asked a question. I first congratulated him on his win at Guiseley Bowling Club, his 3rd Yorkshire Merit title.

His question was simple, who has he joined in that club?

It's an unique club of 5 & the 1st to do so was the late Vic Sugden in 1983 when after a gap of 28 years, he added his third crown after his 1952 & 1955 wins. A feat good enough to name a trophy after him.

It would take 9 years for someone to join him in that club. Gene Bardon won at ICI in 1992 to add to his 1975 & 1987 wins.

Two years later in 1994, Bob Hitchen won his 3rd after going back to back in 1984 & 1985.

The 4th member needs no introduction as Graeme Wilson has 6 with his last coming at Broad Oak Bowling Club in 2019 to add to the 2000, 2001, 2004, 2007 & 2015 wins. Willy took 4 years and at 30, the youngest to reach those dizzy heights and he has the double triple.

James won in 2011 & 2017 & at the age of 35 (same as Bob), he too now has 3.

Many have two including Allan Thompson, Roy Nicholson & Graham “Flicker” Hickey.

How long do we have to wait for a 6th member of this exclusive club?