#Jack in the Box cover art

#Jack in the Box

#Jack in the Box

By: Irish Bowls Federation
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Join us as we discuss the latest news, prevalent issues, and everything in between surrounding our beloved sport. Hear from special guests, featured experts, and engaging panel discussions - this podcast has it all. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or just getting started, there's something for everyone.Irish Bowls Federation
Episodes
  • Boss Hogg
    Dec 1 2025

    Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland deliver a jam-packed episode celebrating Irish success on the world stage and introducing a new era in Irish indoor bowls management.

    The hosts open with comprehensive coverage of recent Irish triumphs, leading with David Copeland's spectacular Champion of Champions victory, crowning him as Ireland's newest world champion. They analyze Irish performances at the World Cup in Malaysia before turning their attention to the results from the Hong Kong Classic and reflecting on the memorable multi-nations trip to Canada.

    On the domestic front, the episode covers the recent Inter-Stadium Series and Potters qualifiers, with exciting news of local players securing their spots for Potters in January. Team selection announcements feature prominently as the hosts discuss the newly selected Under 18 squad, alongside the ladies U25 and senior teams who will be representing Ireland in upcoming competitions.

    The short mat internationals receive detailed coverage before the hosts look ahead to two major events on the horizon: the World Bowls Junior Indoor Championship at the Jim Baker Stadium and the Atlantic Senior Fours in Cyprus. These competitions promise to showcase Irish talent across multiple age groups and disciplines.

    The conversation then addresses recent managerial changes within Irish bowls, providing the perfect segue to this week's featured guest - Colin Hogg, the newly appointed men's Irish Indoor team manager.

    In this insightful interview, Hogg takes listeners through his early playing career, candidly discussing both the highs and lows he experienced as a competitor. This personal journey provides valuable context for his transition into management and shapes his unique perspective on the role.

    Hogg opens up about his vision for the men's indoor team, discussing his philosophy, what he brings to the position based on his playing experience, and his aspirations for Irish bowls at the international level. His passion for developing players and building team culture comes through as he outlines his approach to the demanding role of team manager.

    The episode concludes with Hogg taking on the challenge of naming his perfect Irish bowler, drawing on his extensive experience both as a player and now as a manager to construct his ideal combination of skills and attributes.

    From world championship glory to new leadership, and from domestic success to international ambition, this episode marks an exciting new chapter in Irish indoor bowls.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • The Crumlin Star
    Sep 13 2025

    Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland return with a comprehensive roundup of the incredibly busy world of Irish bowls, covering everything from championship finals to international competitions.

    The hosts kick off with extensive coverage of recent events, starting with the men's and ladies' Irish finals held at CYM Bowling Club and Lurgan Bowling Club respectively. They examine the team competitions in both the men's and ladies' Irish cups before turning their attention to international action.

    The episode provides detailed analysis of the U18 International Series and the Ladies Inter-Association Series, alongside coverage of the men's junior inter-association competition. Looking ahead, they preview the upcoming U25 International Series in Ayr, building excitement for Ireland's young talent on the international stage.

    The hosts also recap the IBF Junior Premier League and the U21 Mixed and Open Pairs events, showcasing the depth of competition across all age groups. They conclude their news segment with discussion of the vacant roles within the IWBA and AIIB organizations.

    The spotlight then turns to an inspiring interview with Sarah Kelly from Crumlin Bowling Club, a distinguished Irish international with multiple national titles and extensive elite experience. Kelly opens up about the central role family plays in her bowls journey, sharing how she met her husband through the sport and discussing the invaluable support system her family provides.

    In a touching segment, Kelly reflects on her most memorable career moments, including winning four Irish pairs titles alongside her mother Noleen and her triumphant British Isles Singles title victory last year. These achievements highlight not only her individual excellence but also the special family bonds that bowls can create.

    The conversation delves into Kelly's motivations and future aspirations, exploring her thoughts on how to move the game forward and attract new participants. Her passion for developing the sport shines through as she shares her vision for Irish bowls.

    The episode concludes with Sarah taking on the entertaining "Jack in the Box Perfect Irish Bowler" challenge, offering her unique perspective on what makes an ideal player based on her years of experience at the highest level.

    From championship drama to family legacy, and from international competition to future vision, this episode captures the rich tapestry of Irish bowls through the eyes of one of its most accomplished players.

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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Mr & Mrs 100, Cup Magic & The Big Cheeses
    Aug 13 2025

    Ian McClure and Chris Mulholland deliver a milestone episode featuring historic achievements and behind-the-scenes insights into Irish bowls.

    The hosts open with a detailed review of the Para International Series at Leamington Spa, where Ireland participated for the first time, marking a significant moment in the development of Irish para bowls. They analyze the performances and discuss what this participation means for the future of the sport.

    The conversation then turns to the current state of this year's Irish Cup competitions, with all three categories - senior, intermediate, and junior cups - having reached the exciting semi-final stages. The hosts provide comprehensive coverage of the progress across all three competitions and offer their predictions for the upcoming semi-final matches.

    The episode's first guest segment features the remarkable husband and wife duo Gary and Donna McCloy, who achieved the extraordinary feat of both reaching 100 caps for Ireland during the same international series. This historic milestone makes them a unique couple in Irish bowls history. The McCloys share their journey to this achievement and reveal major news about their careers that will captivate listeners.

    The conversation with the McCloys also covers their triumphant Irish Cup success last year, winning the competition for the first time, and discusses their impressive current run in this year's competition as they aim to defend their title.

    The second guest segment shifts focus to the administrative heart of Irish bowls, featuring Jennifer Dowds (IWBA Secretary) and Colin Campbell (IBA Secretary). These dedicated officials provide valuable insights into their crucial roles within the sport, revealing the complexities and challenges of managing bowls at the highest level. They discuss the day-to-day responsibilities that keep Irish bowls functioning smoothly, from organizing competitions to managing player selections and coordinating with international bodies. The conversation explores what they bring to the game beyond administration, their current initiatives to grow and improve the sport, and their ambitious hopes for the future development of Irish bowls. Listeners get a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work that makes elite competition possible.

    From historic para bowls participation to administrative vision, and from personal milestones to cup competition excitement, this episode captures the diverse elements that drive Irish bowls forward.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
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