Morningside bowler claims world championship bronze, eyes Bowls SA Open Singles title
Fresh from a podium finish at the World Bowls Indoor Championships, South African star Jason Evans is ready to conquer the outdoor greens at the Bowls SA Men's Open, aiming to complete his collection of national titles.
Morningside Country Club bowler Jason Evans flew South Africa’s flag high at the 2025 World Bowls Indoor Championship in Scotland, winning the bronze medal in the men’s singles.
“I’m very happy with my performance,” said Evans. “To be ranked third in the world at the World Indoor Championships is incredible. It puts SA on the map, with regards to bowling ability.”
All five corners of the globe were represented in the six-day event, which pits the European and Oceania powerhouses against those from the Americas, Asia, and African regions.
The championships saw 32 nations competing, with 32 men and 27 women.
Also read: Johannesburg North’s future cricket stars hit sixes at Africa Cup
“SA bowls is in a good place,” Evans continued. “Well respected globally, we are a threat to any nation. Our recent form at major events backs that up.”
Evans was born in Wales, but moved to South Africa with his family at age 11. He started playing bowls when he was 15, following in his father’s footsteps. “My father was a bowler, so, I got interested through him. I have played for SA for 15 years and have over 300 caps, so, I have been around for a long time, and have travelled the world.
“I think media and televised events would help sponsorship and raise the profile of bowls, as well as social media platforms, using the youth in our sport to promote the game.”
With the world championships behind him, Evans is now shifting his focus to a new challenge: the 2025 Bowls SA Men’s Open, scheduled to take place in the Eastern Cape in May.
Also read: Morningside Country Club brings bowls to Gauteng schools
“My main goal for the Bowls SA Men’s Open is to win at least one discipline. I have won all disciplines before, apart from the singles, where I have been runner-up twice. To get the one that’s missing would be great.”
Preparation for the upcoming tournament will involve dedicated practice at his home club. However, Evans emphasises a strategic approach to his training. “I will be practising at my club prior to the tournament, but if things are looking in order, I will focus more on the mental aspect. I practice with a purpose, tweaking certain aspects of the game. If everything seems ok, then I don’t practice for hours. I rather focus on getting the mind right.”
The venue for the Bowls SA Men’s Open holds a familiar yet potentially challenging aspect for Evans. “I have competed in Port Elizabeth before, winning the inter-districts there recently. It can be challenging with the wind. Let’s hope it stays calm.”
Read more: Sandton’s star Durness Mackay-Champion shines bright on cricket scene
Evans acknowledged the crucial role of his club in his success. “Morningside is a great club. The support from members is fantastic, and to win, or do well in major tournaments, puts them on the map. It’s the club of choice.
“I love representing SA at major tournaments. So, as long as the selectors pick me, I am happy to give it my all. World bowls, and the Commonwealth games, are on the agenda. Hopefully, I am still performing well enough to crack the nod for selection.”
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We’d love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts!
