21/04/2026
Johannesburg Bowls Association - JBA Official
โจ HONOURING A TRUE GIANT OF THE GAME โจ
Today, Gauteng Bowls proudly pays tribute to a man whose legacy is woven into the very fabric of our sport โ George Hartley Atkinson (1920โ1991), affectionately known across the bowls world as โMr. Bowls.โ
A World Bowls Hall of Fame Inductee and Honorary Life President of Bowls South Africa, Atkinson was far more than a player โ he was a pioneer, a visionary, and a servant of the game at the highest level.
From representing Southern Transvaal with distinction as a capped player, to orchestrating one of the most iconic moments in bowls history โ the 1976 World Bowls Championships in Johannesburg โ his impact was both profound and far-reaching. Under his leadership, that championship became a global benchmark, elevating South Africa onto the international stage and showcasing the very best of our sport.
But beyond titles and achievements, George Hartley Atkinson embodied what bowls is truly about โ excellence, unity, humility, and passion. His tireless dedication helped build structures, inspire generations, and shape the future of bowls not only in South Africa, but across the world.
๐ His influence was global.
๐ His service was unmatched.
๐ His legacy is eternal.
As Gauteng Bowls โ Your Bowling Province of Gold, we stand proud to honour a man whose lifeโs work continues to inspire every player who steps onto the green.
We remember. We celebrate. We honour.
Johannesburg Bowls Association Ekurhuleni Bowls Sedibeng Bowls Sables Bowls Bowls Gauteng North Bowls 1Sport4Life Bowls in and around South Africa + World Gauteng Bowls Gauteng Bowls Official (Shareable)
