Biography: Noel Bowden had been an All Black in 1952, during a stint in Taranaki whom he represented 1950-53. A member of the well-known Ponsonby family, he was educated at Ponsonby Primary School and Auckland Grammar, 1st XV 1941-44. An all round sportsman, his long jump record of 22' 6", established in 1944, stood for many years. Played in the national tennis championships 1949. He had served in the Navy during the war and entered Training College shortly after his return, playing for Auckland in 1947. After qualifying, he was moved around the country a bit, appearing briefly for Waikato before spending a few years in Taranaki. Originally a centre, and a very good one at that, he moved back to fullback once Snow Cockerill, the 1951 All Black, was forced to retire after injury, and made such a good fist of it that he was picked for one test in 1952. In the days when a fullback's duty centred around his ability to catch, kick and tackle, Bowden was a strong performer at the back. His one test match was won, 15-8, and Bowden was commended in the press for 'a fine performance'. Despite that, he wasn't always Taranaki's first choice, and when Scott made himself available for the 1953 tour, the fullbacks were always going to be the master and Jack Kelly. Twenty-eight years of age when he returned to Ponsonby in 1954, Bowden was winding his rep career down; indeed, he managed only a couple of appearances in Auckland colours from his old club. Shortly afterwards, he was on the move again, this time to Wanganui. After ending his teaching career Bowden settled back in Auckland, and returned to the old family stamping-ground at Ponsonby, He has been active in the affairs of the Old Boys Association and is currently (1999) President of that Body.

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