Port Natal bowlers to compete at BSA junior nationals

Cheryl Waterman

On Friday 28 March twelve enthusiastic young Port Natal bowlers, and their managers, will head off on a road trip to Bloemfontein to compete in the Bowls South Africa Junior Nationals Championship.  Keegan Bauristhene (skip), Jarred Bauristhene, Travis Finestone and Nathan Short, all with experience in national competitions, will vie for the Under 25 title and Troy McDowell (A side skip), Tye Smit, Zanele Bock, Zazi Mkhungo, Slayde Human (B side skip), Thandi Bock, Taylor Laden and Wimpie Nel will do battle in a effort to bring home the Under 18 title.  For the eight Under 18 bowlers, this marks their first experience at a national tournament. The district wishes them success, confident that their hours of dedicated practice—honing consistency, communication and teamwork—will serve them well.

Troy McDowel looks forward to the challenge, “It's an honour to skip in my first inter-district championship. We’ve trained hard, focusing on teamwork, strategy and mindset. Staying positive under pressure is key—our goal is to play smart, support each other and embrace the challenge." 

His sentiments are mirrored by Slayde Human whose goal is to rely on his team’s skill and positive attitude to aim for 2nd in their section and qualify for the semis.   Both young skips acknowledged the challenge of facing more experienced opposition, but are ready to step it up and learn from the experience.

Realising that developing a successful pool of young bowlers is vital for the continued growth of lawn bowls, Shaun O’Brien from New Germany Bowling Club accepted the role of convenor of the Standing Committee for Junior Bowls for Port Natal Bowls. He has worked tirelessly to eliminate the perception that bowls is for the older generation, emphasising the need for younger players to ensure the game’s longevity and vibrancy. His dedication to securing sponsorship and the necessary funds for the teams’ trip to Bloemfontein is commendable and he enjoyed a proud moment when the youngsters were awarded their district shirts, sponsored by Optimum Apparel.

South Africans take pride in sport’s role in their national identity, with good sportsmanship integral to that pride. Across sports like rugby and cricket, respect for the game and its traditions defines South African athletes. Lawn bowls is no different—its rules and etiquette are deeply embedded in its ethos, shaping young bowlers into individuals who embody respect, integrity and commitment - valuable traits both on and off the green.

Clubs promoting junior development programs secure the sport’s future. Engaging schools, mentoring with experienced players and hosting youth-focused tournaments inspire the next generation. Young bowlers energise the sport, ensuring traditions are upheld while it continues evolving.

A comment by Steve Kelf, President of Port Natal Bowls, who encourages clubs to develop policies for the nurturing of junior bowls, “Establishing a well-structured junior development pathway that cultivates young players' skills and supports their competitive growth is essential for long-term participation in bowls. This approach strengthens the sport and helps clubs secure their sustainability for the future.”