Umhlali CC’s Troy McDowell executes a perfect delivery. Photo: Supplied
Cheryl Waterman
The men’s last 32 of the Novice Singles Tournament hosted by Durban Bowling Club last Saturday showcased the thrill of this competition as a platform for new talent to emerge.
The game of the day featured a riveting clash between 17-year-old Umhlali Country Club bowler and Reddam House pupil, Troy McDowell, and Durban Bowling Club’s Rajan Reddy.
The match underscored the bowler’s adage: never give up until the last bowl has come to rest.
Reddy dominated the early stage, establishing a commanding 9-0 lead by the fourth end.
By the ninth, McDowell had only managed to add two shots, while Reddy extended his lead by four more shots to 13-2.
However, it was there that Reddy’s momentum stalled as McDowell, demonstrating unwavering focus and determination, claimed every subsequent end.
McDowell’s incredible comeback culminated in him winning the game 21-13 in the 19th end, earning applause from captivated spectators.
McDowell’s performance, after just one year of playing bowls, is a testament to the coaching efforts of Umhlali’s Kerry-Anne Perry and Annette Senekal.
Adding to the day’s excitement, 17-year-old Zazi Mkhungo, a Northwood Boys’ High School pupil representing Northlands Bowling Club, also secured his place in the final 16.
In a fiercely contested match against Durban Collegians bowler Peter Hulbert, Mkhungo secured his spot with a narrow 21-17 victory.
The tournament resumes this Saturday at Durban Bowling Club, where the remaining 16 men and eight women will vie for semi-final places, building up to the finals on January 25.
Meanwhile, last Sunday saw Pro10 teams braving persistent rain and relatively heavy greens to compete in sectional games across the district.
The Pro10 format, known for its intensity and rapid pace, requires players to bring their A-game.
Hillcrest’s Nic Horne and Shan Trimborn will face club mates Ian Beswick and Ian Kalil at sponsoring hosts, Amanzimtoti Bowling Club, this Sunday in their first knockout round.
When asked about the Pro10’s appeal, Trimborn shared: “Every bowl is a challenge. With only two bowls each and 10 ends, you have to make every delivery count. The game moves quickly, and there’s no room for error.”
Hillcrest Bowling Club leads the charge of sectional results with five section winners, closely followed by Umhlali Country Club and Amanzimtoti Bowling Club with four each.
Adding to Saturday’s victory, Troy McDowell and his Pro10 partner, Robert Prout, won their section on Sunday and move on to the knockout rounds.
McDowell’s weekend triumphs mark him as a promising young talent.
The 30 section winners will continue their journey through knockout stages, leading up to Sunday’s final.
Sunday will also feature the second round of selection games for Port Natal Bowls Under-25 and Under-18 teams.
The selected young bowlers will represent the district at the upcoming BSA Inter-District Tournament in Bloemfontein, starting on March 29.
With emerging talent like Troy McDowell and Zazi Mkhungo stepping into the spotlight, the future of lawn bowls in the district looks exceptionally bright.