When does the event start?
The first squad is at 08:00 on Saturday 17th January 2026, the final squad is at 12:00 on Sunday 25th January 2026, and the presentation will start at approximately 15:30 on the final day.
If all squads are full an overflow date may be added on Sunday 11th January 2026 (timing will depend on number of bowlers).
When are the squads?
If all of the squads below are full then overflow squads may be added on Sunday 11th January 2025.
| Date | Time | Event |
| Sat 17/01/2026 | 08:00 | Doubles / Singles |
| 11:30 | Team | |
| 15:00 | Doubles / Singles | |
| Sun 18/01/2026 | 08:00 | Doubles / Singles |
| 11:30 | Team | |
| 15:00 | Doubles / Singles | |
| Sat 24/01/2026 | 08:00 | Doubles / Singles |
| 11:30 | Team | |
| 15:00 | Doubles / Singles | |
| Sun 25/01/2026 | 08:30 | Doubles / Singles |
| 12:00 | Team | |
| Sun 25/01/25 | 15:30 (approx start) | Presentation |
- Registration will be 30 minutes prior to bowling.
- If all bowlers are present and registered, then bowling may commence earlier than the published squad times.
- Tardy players will commence play at the frame in progress as directed by the Tournament Manager.
How do we enter?
Groups and clubs can enter their bowlers using the entry form.
Please ensure that all bowlers are aware of the event format and the rules before submitting your entries, you should have all of the required information before completing the entry form.
Note: Entries can only be made by submitting a complete entry form. We cannot hold spaces without an entry form, or full details. Entries are only confirmed once payment is received.
How do we pay?
Payment should be made via bank transfer after submission of your entry form. Your entry is not complete and will not be confirmed until payment has been received.
BANK TRANSFER DETAILS:
Sort code: 08-71-99 (Zempler Bank – formerly CashPlus: Business Account)
Account number: 12753453
Account name: Bowling Tournaments UK
Please quote the ‘Club / Group Entry name‘ as entered on the entry form.
You should contact us after sending payment so we can confirm it has been received.
| x1 Event £19.00 | x2 Events £36.00 | x3 Events £53.00 |
Do I have to bowl in all events?
No, you may choose to do only one, two, or all three of the events.
Youth Bowling Tour points are currently only awarded to anyone bowling all 9 games, and you will only be eligible for All Events medals if all 9 games are bowled.
The Doubles and Singles are bowled as a 6 game block, with no break or practice in between. These events will always need to be bowled on the same day.
Do I have to bowl all of my games on the same day?
No, some clubs prefer to bowl the team event on a different day to the doubles and singles. Just make sure that 2 preferred dates are selected for each event on the entry form and add a comment. We will do our best to split your days.
The Doubles and Singles are bowled as a 6 game block, with no break or practice in between. These events will always need to be bowled on the same day.
How is handicap calculated?
Handicaps for the SOE are calculated as 80% of the difference between 210 and the bowlers entering average (the handicap is rounded to zero decimal places). You can see what your handicap will be by entering your average to the box below and clicking Calculate Handicap.
The event rules are:
- Handicaps will be based on 80% of the difference between the average and 210. The highest average attained over 15 games must be used, whether junior, adult or merit, and a league standing sheet (screenshot, document, or link) to verify the average must be included with all entries. An unverified average will result in the players rolling off scratch. The Tournament Manager/Committee reserves the right to accept, re-rate or reject any entry and their decision on all matters including protests and or any other questions shall be final, subject to the right of appeal to the BTBA.
- Both Free Fall and String averages will be accepted without differentiation.
How do the age divisions work?
The age divisions are aligned to the Youth Bowling Tour, and are based on year of birth. You can check yours using the table below, or by entering a year into the calculator at the bottom of this page:
| Division | Age | Year of Birth |
| Under 10 | Under 10 years at 31/12/2026 | 2017 or later |
| Under 13 | Under 13 years at 31/12/2026 | 2014-2016 |
| Under 16 | Under 16 years at 31/12/2026 | 2011-2013 |
| Under 20 | Under 20 years at 31/12/2026 | 2007-2010 |
Age division / age eligibility queries:
Any age division or eligibility queries should be sent to Youth Bowling
How do I get there?
The SOE Youth Open is being held at:
GObowling, Grove park, Court Drive, Dunstable LU5 4JD
Is parking available at the centre?
Yes, there is a car park directly in front of GObowling. Charges do apply, use the machine or follow the instructions to pay by phone or use the PayByPhone app.
Can I bring my own food and drinks into the centre?
GObowling have asked that only food and drink purchased on the premises is consumed within the premises. Water bottles can be refilled at Kitchen 22 or The Garden Drinks & Cocktail Bar.
Please inform the centre if you have any special dietary requirements or allergies.
Rule 17: Only food and drink purchased on the premises are to be consumed within the premises, unless agreed in person with the centre management.
What is the best way to contact you?
Contact must only be made via the contact page or SOE email address. Messages sent via other channels (e.g. personal social media profiles or text messaging) will be ignored.
We will normally respond within 48 hours, but there may be delays when the event is running.
Handicap Calculator:
Age Division Calculator:
Year of Birth Ranges (as at 31/12/2026)
- Under 10: 2017 or later
- Under 13: 2014–2016
- Under 16: 2011–2013
- Under 20: 2007–2010
- Too old for the event: 2006 or earlier