Ashley Clipston

Ashley Clipston is 23 years old and lives in South Normanton.  He plays Bowls for Alfreton Indoor Bowls Team.  He works full time as an electrical fitter.  In 2011 Ashley played for the England U25 team and was the English Bowling Association's Indoor National Champion of Champions winner.

Ashley's Latest News (27.01.12)

I captained the England U25 junior team in the International Series in Nottingham on the 7th and 8th January.  The England team finished top of the table having beat Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

I'm travelling to Swansea on 8th March as a reserve to compete in the British Isles Indoor Bowls Council Series.

How did you get involved in Bowls?

My family played Bowls so I went along and started to play too.

Stereotypically Bowls is seen as a sport that older people play, do you think enough is been done to change people's perceptions?

Yes, there are a lot of people now trying to raise the profile of Bowls and encouraging more and more young people to play. 

How many titles have you won to date?

I have won more than 40 titles in my career so far.

What do you like to do when you are not competing?

I like to go out with family and friends to parties, watch Football and play on my Play Station 3 online with my friends.

Who inspires you?

I don't aspire to be anyone, I just want to be the best I can be.

Who is your greatest supporter?

I have lots of family and friends who like to come and watch and support me.

How often do you train and what is a typical session?

I don't specifically train now, instead I play Bowls most nights a week in both the league and in competitions.

How difficult is it to balance competitions with work?

Its fairly hard to balance.  I would like to enter more competitions nationally as I know this will help me continue to improve, though with working full time this is difficult.  

What aspects of your game would you like to improve?

I am happy with the way my game is at the minute.  I just need to keep playing well and try to win more competitions.

What do your family/friends think about you representing England?

They are all really pleased for me.  It is a great pleasure playing for your country.

What are your plans for 2012?

My key aim is to keep my place in the England U25 team.

Whats the best advice you would give to other young people who would like to start playing Bowls?

My advice would be to enjoy the sport and try and get involved in a club and play competively, as that is the best way to learn.  

Where do you hope to be in 5 years time?

I would like to be part of the senior mens England team.

What is your career highlight to date?

I have two.  Playing for England and winning the National Champion of Champions last year. 

Do you receive any funding to support you as an athlete?

I received a bursary from the Derbyshire Talented Athlete Fund (now Podium) this year.

Last Updated on Tuesday, 24 April 2012 10:34

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