My name is Percy Frederick Bates, - Deaf aged pensioner aged 94. I have played some great sports with a group of Deaf sports members/ players and also hearing for so many years.
I declare to be retired from playing Lawn Bowls which was my last sport ever since I started sports at Deaf School at Dutton Park in 1928. Now retiring in 2009.
During my time playing lawn bowls, that I started in 1972, I joined Toombul Bowls Club, and then joined Deaf Club, after I retired from games of cricket and tennis in 1971. (the late) Herman Beutel and (the late) Edward "Ned" Moore were coaching me to bowl, and were also coaches for the Toombul bowls club, in 1972. I bowled for 37 years; then retired lawn bowls; August 2009. I am also a patriarch of Toombul Lawn Bowls for longest years at the club. I have been secretary for 14 years, president for 1 or 2 years and also an official coach from R.Q.B.A. I was permitted to coach a team of Deaf bowlers but I failed to drop off, caused by two deaf bowlers. I won Men's "A" Club Singles of Toombul Bowls Club in 1990; also Triples and Fours; also some championships for the Deaf Club.
My main reason for my retirement is that I had accident eight times, falling down painfully. I can't walk properly and it is hard to play bowling. So I need to accept my doctor's letter and advise not to play and retire from lawn bowls. I miss my loving lawn bowls so much. I just look after myself carefully and my health, at the age of 94.
I say my final bye to my great sport
Thank you
Percy F. Bates
Old Time Sports