Limpopo bowls teams show grit at nationals
Limpopo’s bowls teams returned from the national tournament with pride, having showcased teamwork, sportsmanship, and determination.
TZANEEN – The Limpopo bowls teams returned home after a hard-fought campaign at the recent national tournament, where teams from across the country gathered to battle for top honours.
The Limpopo A side, made up of NJ Oosthuizen, Jaco Oosthuizen, Khutjo Mahlatji and Dirk Steyn, finished eighth in their division with 22 points and three notable victories against Ekurhuleni B, Southern Free State B, and Mpumalanga B. Their thrilling live-streamed clash against Northern Free State A ended in a narrow 16–13 loss.
The Limpopo B side, represented by Jandre Oosthuizen, Dirkie Steyn, Hendre Labuschagne and Jacobus Steyn, also secured eighth place in their group, collecting 18.5 points and three wins.
The C side, consisting of Larissa Oosthuizen, Nicoline de Gouveia, Erika Austin, and Lizinda Lombard, closed their campaign in 11th position.
They celebrated a memorable victory over Northern Cape B and proudly stood as the only all-ladies team in the entire tournament.
Adding to the province’s pride, Khutjo was named Limpopo player of the tournament by the management panel of Dirk Steyn, Estelle Steyn and Carol Oosthuizen.
Meanwhile, the national honours were decided in nail-biting fashion. Sables A, Natal Inland (NIBA) A, Gauteng North (BGN) A, and Johannesburg (JBA) A reached the semi-finals. NIBA edged past Sables 16–12, while BGN defeated JBA 14–9 to set up a tense final.
With the scores locked 14-14 going into the last end, BGN scored the decisive point to claim gold. NIBA settled for silver – marking their second consecutive runner-up finish, while JBA and Sables shared the bronze medals.
Despite not breaking into the top spots, Limpopo’s players showcased determination, teamwork, and a spirit of sportsmanship that will inspire future campaigns.
