In lawn bowls, a “Spider” is a short club game in which several people bowl towards one target near the middle of the green. The closest bowl wins. Clubs often use it at an opening day, social event or fundraiser. It is an activity with local variations, rather than the scoring format for an ordinary singles or team match.
How does a Spider work?
A common version places a jack, coin or toy target around the centre of the green. Players line up around the outside, each with one bowl, and the organiser tells everyone which target counts. On a clear signal, they deliver towards the centre. When all bowls have stopped, the closest bowl takes the prize. Central Northern District Bowling Association describes this style of Spider as a fundraiser; Bowls Australia’s Rookie Rollers activity cards also describe a one-bowl, closest-to-target version for groups.
Set it up so everyone knows the result
Choose one visible target and say whether the winner is nearest to the jack or to another object.
Agree where each person will stand and the direction they will deliver.
Give each participant one distinguishable bowl or a way to identify it.
Use one clear start signal and wait for every bowl to stop before anyone enters the playing area.
Measure a close result fairly and announce the winner.
For a busy open day, the organiser should control the number of participants and keep spectators, children and anyone collecting bowls clear of moving bowls. A coach or club official can adapt the distance and delivery pattern to the players and the green. The Rookie Rollers material specifically suggests waiting for everyone to roll before collecting bowls.
Spider versus a normal end
In an ordinary end, opposing players or teams take turns and count shots for bowls closer than the opponent’s nearest bowl. Spider is a single-target challenge involving a group and usually one prize for the nearest bowl. New visitors can try it before learning a full match. For the regular game, start with our beginner’s guide to lawn bowls.
Sources: Central Northern District Bowling Association game suggestions; Bowls Australia Rookie Rollers activity cards.
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