LISTEN TO THE JOHN HARDEN INTERVIEW
John Harden (Shanklin Bowling)
In the tight-knit circle of Isle of Wight lawn bowls, John Harden is a respected name synonymous with the enduring traditions of the Shanklin Bowling Club and the wider Island bowling community. Often working in tandem with his wife, Maureen, John represents the “bedrock” of the sport—the dedicated players and administrators who ensure that the greens stay busy and the clubs remain competitive.
John has been a long-serving member of the Shanklin club, contributing to its reputation as one of the most welcoming and well-run clubs on the Island. He is known for his consistent play and commitment to the club’s social fabric. Whether it is a friendly weekend roll-up or a high-stakes league match, John’s presence on the green is a staple of the Shanklin sporting calendar. The Harden name is deeply embedded in the club’s administration and success. While John has focused on the competitive and community aspects, his wife Maureen Harden has served in key roles such as Hon. Assistant Treasurer and County President, making them one of the “power couples” of Island bowls.
John’s skill as a bowler has seen him represent Shanklin in numerous prestigious matches across the Isle of Wight. John is a regular feature in this storied annual tradition. In one notable victory, he played in a rink alongside Norman Lockwood, Seamus Morris, and Derek Stevens, securing a dominant win for the Gentlemen’s side. John has often been part of the touring squads and representative teams that take on mainland counties. His ability to perform on different greens—from the fast surfaces of Devon to the tricky coastal winds of the Solent—has earned him respect across the South Coast.
Beyond the competitive scoreboards, John is recognised for his quiet dedication to the charitable side of the sport. Through the various events hosted by Shanklin and Bowls Isle of Wight, John has been part of initiatives that raise significant funds for local organisations like “John’s Club” and other Island-based charities. He is frequently cited by newer members as a welcoming figure who is always ready to offer advice on technique or etiquette, helping to preserve the gentlemanly spirit of the game.
Like many of the Island’s great sporting characters, John’s interests are broad. Before becoming a fixture on the bowling green, he was well-known in other local circles, bringing a competitive edge and a sense of fair play that transitioned perfectly into the precision-based world of lawn bowls.