The six-strong team from Cowbridge U3A weren’t very successful at the January 2020 inter-U3A quiz tournament hosted by Bridgend U3A, finishing fifth of eleven. There were, however, mitigating circumstances!
Road works eastbound on the A473 at Waterton caused delays of 25 minutes or more, which meant that all the Cowbridge contestants arrived at the venue in Brackla much later than planned – the last two members entered the hall as the first question was being asked. By the time everyone had settled down and quiz fees had been collected, the second round was well under way. Hardly the best preparation and, needless to say, the first two categories were both low scoring.
Fortunately, the ‘geography’ round was chosen as the one where the team’s ‘joker’ was played and the score of 8/10 was doubled to 16, but there was far too much leeway to make up.
Porthcawl U3A were worthy winners (17½ points ahead of Cowbridge), with Pontyclun, who also have a strong team, second.
As usual, Bridgend provided excellent refreshments, with two large tables full of different cakes and biscuits – too much choice, in fact. Add a tea or coffee as a beverage, and it’s remarkably good value for the entrance fee.
If you would like to join the membership pool, you will be extremely welcome – just contact Fran and Hywel Davies, the Group Leaders.

Steve Monaghan