Julie is happy to be in friend Ali’s backyard
Julie Forrest’s name is one to strike fear into even the most accomplished international women’s bowlers.
The Scottish star has won the women’s singles at both the 2022 and 2023 World Bowls Indoor Championships as the cherry on top of an impressive record at international tournaments, which has often come at the expense of Guernsey’s own Ali Merrien.
But as she pushes for a World Bowls title defence in Guernsey, she cuts a humble figure – and one who is more than happy to praise the host island and its facilities.
‘It’s a great opportunity to come over here,’ she said.
‘I have never been to Guernsey at all before.
‘The rink is a bit tricky, but the set-up is fantastic – I can’t say anything else.
‘The places are beautiful. It would be really nice to come over here and get a long weekend.’
GIBA vice-president Alex Rich on what it means for Guernsey to host the World Bowls Indoor Championships
Forrest’s rivalry with Merrien is a long-running one, where both players have achieved memorable victories.
‘She went through a stage where she would beat me a lot,’ the Scot said.
‘I went through a stage where I beat her a lot. I would say we are even-stevens.
‘She probably has a better record at Potters.’
But ultimately, one victory over Merrien at the famed Potters Resort will linger particularly long in the esteemed player’s memory.
She claimed the 2019 World Indoor Bowls singles crown with an exceptionally close 8-7, 9-8 victory over the Guernsey great.
‘That was one of the highlights of my career,’ the Scot said.
‘Me and Ali have a great relationship and I’ve known her for a long time.
'There’s a lot of respect there.’
