Paul Jonck, outstanding bowler on one leg
MONTGOMERY PARK- One legged bowler stays active and competitive.
Paul Jonck is an extraordinary sportsman. The Albertskroon resident lost his right leg in 2009 after being the victim of a hit and run by a drunk driver but he has not lost his resolve for achieving greatness.
“I was in hospital with fourteen fractures for six months. Before my accident I played cricket, soccer, golf and I had just started playing bowls socially, so you can imagine how difficult it was for me knowing how active I previously was. I underwent nine operations trying to save the leg but eventually made the decision to amputate.”
In no time Jonck was out playing wheelchair bowls and then standing bowls on crutches. After being fitted with a prosthesis leg he became so confident in his abilities that in 2012 he began playing able-bodied bowls and even placed in the top sixteen of the 2012 Central Gauteng Singles Tournament.
“Bowls to me was an excellent form of rehab. There are still so many things you can achieve and sometimes you just have to get out there and prove it to yourself.”
Nowadays Jonck manages the bar at the Auckland Park Bowling Club and he has recently started playing golf again, two to three times a week.
“If you just take the chance you will realise there is very little that you cannot do. Sky’s the limit.”
Jonck is appealing to all disabled person to come out and join him for some fun and exercise at the bowls club.
“Hey, when life gives you lemons, drink lots of tequila,” jokes Jonck, “or you make lemonade – whichever you prefer.”
Details: Auckland Park Bowls Club (011) 782-6795