Balaklava’s Richard ‘Dick’ May turns 100 later this year, but that has not stopped him from going to the bowling green as he had a roll with the local bowling club on Saturday.

Dick, 99, took part with Balaklava Bowling Club’s Division Two team in the home game against Mallala, the last of the minor round, three months before his 100th birthday. The club paid tribute to Dick with a guard of honour, with his family members also attending for the occasion.

Helped by his daughter Janice Smith, Dick had a couple practice rolls before rolling two on the first rink, with one coming really close to the jack, showing even at 99 he still had it. Dick said he started with the club when he was about 50-years-old and has enjoyed being a part of the club over the years.

He said he loved the “general friendships” he gained from his time at the club, which in turn had been good to him and his family, and had even served as a venue for wedding receptions for his daughters.

On the bowling green Dick has been a part of two Division Three premierships, in 2013/14 and 2016/17, as well as one Division Two premiership in 2010/11, with his wife Merle also playing at the club.

Behind the scenes Dick had been involved with the club’s grounds and maintenance, such as the installation of the B green which included carting soil in for it.

For his years of involvement Dick would receive life membership with the club.

His daughter Janice said it was a very special occasion and appreciated the club’s guard of honour.

“The club has been so good to Dad, and he’s loved every moment he’s here,” she said. Dick will celebrate his birthday on June 12, with an open house event planned at the club for the day