Wentworth novice pairs duo take Stella Park contest bowlers by storm

IN a quiet week ending 5 July, the only bowling report received at Wentworth Bowling was from the family and friends Wednesday development bowls.

Winners in that week were Terry Mickleson and Stan McKenzie.

John Swanepoel and Phil Hill took home the biscuits. Ina Davies won both first and second prize on the first 60/40 board. The second board spoils were shared by John Swanepoel and Eileen du Plessis.

Saturday, 4 July saw members enjoy their own ‘Captain’s Table’ with ‘bookie’ Bernie calling the stakes at the annual July Day celebration. Bokke van der Westhuizen’s disappointment at drawing the 28–1 rank outsider number 15 turned to smiles when the crowd watched Stuart Randolph ‘power’ Power King home to win the day, and send Bokke romping home with the sweepstake winnings.

Last week’s family and friends development bowls was exceptionally well attended, considering many of the stalwart supporters of this initiative were involved in the gruelling Dan Draper tournament at Wanderers Bowling Club. Frank Greyvenstein and Ron Addinall proved that even a spell in ICU cannot keep a Wentworth bowler down. They heralded their return to the greens by pairing up to win Wednesday’s competition. The biscuits were awarded to Johnny ‘Mooiman’ du Plessis and his partner, Lorraine White. Zoe Dougall celebrated a double win when her numbers were drawn from the bag for both prizes on the 60/40 board.

Friday’s Bluff Meats men’s bowls saw Graham Bransby’s team of Andy Jones and Ron Parsonage edge out Brian Hollis and Joe McNamara to secure top spot. Jumbo Nel, Tomcat Cavanagh and Ron Addinall had to be content with the day’s biscuit prize. Alan Ritchie was all smiles when his number was drawn to give him the weekly pork roast. Vicky Williams and Jumbo Nel shared the 60/40 board, with the first prize going to Vicky.

Congratulations must go to Robin de Gouveia and Dave Carroll who competed in the Stella Park novice pairs competition against some formidable opponents on Saturday morning. Wentworth’s boys proved too strong for the opposition as they emerged as overall winners.

On Saturday afternoon Dave was back on the home greens, partnering with John Somerville to contest the men’s nominated pairs final against Terry Mickelson and Brian Smith. The closely fought competition saw the lead change hands a number of times during the game and had spectators completely absorbed in the struggle for supremacy. When the two sides took to the mat for the final end, John and Dave led 16–15. A nail-biting 21st end was won by Terry and Brian who ensured the game was theirs by picking up a vital two shots to take the honours with a 17–16 win. It’s gratifying to watch a game played in the true spirit of sportsmanship. Well done to all concerned.

The community is reminded that the family and friends development bowls held every Wednesday afternoon is an opportunity for all those interested in trying their hand at the game. It is played in a friendly spirit to encourage ‘newbies’ to get involved in the sport. All are welcome.

Thoughts are with club barman, Doug Bird, who returns to hospital this week to undergo tests to establish the best treatment for his ailment. Members hope he regains his health soon.

Condolences are extended to the family of Wentworth’s loyal supporter, Dave McCann, who died last week. The members also commiserate with Ria Haarhof and her family after the untimely death of Ronnie Haarhof, a past bowling member and manager of the club.

The kitchen is open from Tuesday to Sunday for breakfast, pub lunches and Sunday lunches. Call Ina on 082-768-4644 for details. A big screen is available for those wishing to watch sporting highlights. Braai and bowling facilities are available for corporate functions and the hall is available for hiring. Call the club on 031-467-7103.