Bowling tournament a Classic

The 10th Dolphin Coast Classic Bowls Tournament last weekend was held at Umhlali Country Club last weekend and bowlers gave of their best for the duration of the event from Friday, September 25 until Sunday, September 27.

It might not be a fast game requiring a lot of physical energy but the passion shown by the bowlers gave the tournament the feeling of a cricket match. Some bowlers would be running along the green with their team mates shouting “come buddy”. A round of applause would tell you if the bowl was a good one.

Meanwhile a group of senior ladies on the sideline seemed to be thoroughly entertained and you could hear some of them shouting “nice bowl” as a word of encouragement to the bowlers. Audie (34) from Durban, described the game as a difficult but enjoyable sport for young and old.

“I have played all kinds of sports but I am enjoying bowls and it is the most challenging game I have played,” said Audie

Twenty-four teams took part in the Classic. Dave Rileys’ team won the tournament with 92 points.

Riley said the tournament was very challenging and he is glad they walked away with victory.

“It was a great tournament with a lot of good bowlers taking part,” said Riley.

Trevor Spring’s team claimed the second position with 89 points, third position was taken by John Connellan’s team with 88 points and a shot difference of 46 and in fourth was Des Heans’ team with 88 points and a shot difference of 25.

Member of the bowls section at the Umhlali Country Club, Hugh Gaitskell said the teams led by Dave Riley, Steve van Niekerk and John Connellan had won the tournament twice each before and this year they had wondered if it could be done again.

“Happily, Dave Riley’s team was victorious for the third time. We are always grateful for the organising committee’s assistance and the support from the sponsors,” said Gaitskell.