The inter zone challenge, featuring Mid Ulster, North West and Oriel, played at Ardboe proved to be an outstanding success with £1000 raised for Marie Curie Nurses. It was also a valuabe practice session ahead of the inter zone competition. The series was played on a round robin basis with shots difference deciding if there was a tie on points. In game 1, North West proved too strong for Oriel in winning 62 - 42. In game 2, Mid Ulster took time to adjust to the weight of the mats and lost to Oriel by 59 - 49 with 4 rinks winning. This result meant that if Mid Ulster were to win the series they had to score 53 shots to over take Oriel and defeat North West by 16 shots to prevent North West coming out top. Mid Ulster got off to an excellent start and went into a 13 - 0 lead, a lead they held throughout. It was a matter of whether they could win by enough shots to overtake North West on shots difference. In the end they did achieve both targets with 3  rinks winning and one drawing. Considering that several players had played little bowls this season, it was a promising start to the season and there is no doubt that with total committment this season, Mid Ulster have the ability to regain the inter zone title. Sincere thanks to the Ardboe Club for the use of their premises and for proving the teas.