Phil Dunn, a member of SMLBC, recently competed in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Qualifying Tournament for the Potters Leisure Resort World Bowls Tournament. The tournament took place a tournament in Santa Maria, CA, and the winners automatically qualified for the Potters World Bowls Tournament in January, 2008. Phil competed in the pairs tournament with Jim Olson.

The two of them won their opening game, followed by victories over teams consisting of Tony Baer and Rosa Gandara as well as Richard Broad and Ivan Hyland. In the finals, Phil and Jim beat the team of Steve Smith and Howard Harris, winning the pairs tournament and finishing the day undefeated. Phil said, "It's like a fairy tale come true."

For winning the tournament, Phil and Jim get to compete this upcoming January (the 7th - 27th) in England at Potters Leisure Resort's 10th Annual World Bowls Tournament. The tournament has U.K. radio and TV coverage and also features autograph-seekers! In addition, the winner of the singles tournament wins $60,000, and the winning doubles team wins $20,000 - the largest prizes ever for a lawn bowling tournament! However, the tournament is bowled entirely indoors, which will be quite a change for Phil, who is used to the warm, sunny climes and outdoor bowling of southern California.

Congratulations to Phil, and best of luck overseas!