The much-anticipated return of the Club Singles Handicap competition took place last weekend and attracted a pleasing number of members eager to test themselves on the greens.

Players were allocated handicaps ranging from -5 to +5, based on previous bowling records and experience.

The format is designed to level the playing field and give newer bowlers a realistic chance of competing against more seasoned opponents.

Douthwaite for the win

That proved to be the case, with newcomer Quintin Griffiths delivering an impressive performance.

He won three matches against experienced opponents to reach the semi-finals, where he maintained his fine form to defeat Billy Villiers.

In the other half of the draw, Trevor Douthwaite won his opening two matches before overcoming Albert Xulu in the semi-finals to set up an intriguing final against Griffiths.

With Griffiths playing off a handicap of +5 and Douthwaite on -3, Griffiths started the final with eight shots already on the board.

As singles matches are played to 21 shots, Griffiths needed just 13 more shots to secure the title, while Douthwaite had to score the full 21.

Griffiths made a superb start and led 14-2 after eight ends.

Douthwaite, however, showed great determination to fight back and level the scores at 14-14. Griffiths regained the advantage at 17-14, but Douthwaite’s experience ultimately proved decisive as he completed an excellent 21-17 victory.

Schoon claims ladies’ title

The ladies’ competition also featured several newcomers, which was encouraging to see.

Joan Schoon and Edith Pretorius advanced to the final after defeating Mariska du Plooy and Alice Howe respectively.

With Schoon leading 10-9 after 11 ends, the match remained finely balanced.

She then took control to open up a commanding 19-9 lead. Pretorius responded with four shots to reduce the deficit to 19-13, but Schoon secured the two shots she needed to clinch both the match and the title.

All players deserve congratulations for their outstanding performances, particularly as the finals were played in difficult windy conditions.

Competitors also appreciated the support of the spectators who turned out to watch the closing stages.

The Bowls South Africa Ladies National Tournament concluded in Durban last weekend.

Barbara Baleri, representing Klipbank Bowling Club and KwaZulu-Natal Country Bowls, reached the final and narrowly lost 21-18 to claim the silver medal.

Her achievement is a tremendous accomplishment for both her club and the province.

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