Latest news with #BowlsSA
The Herald
26-05-2025
- Sport
- The Herald
Ferns crowned SA Men's Open singles bowls champion in thrilling Westview finale
Brendan Ferns etched his name into the record books as he claimed the Bowls SA Men's Open Singles title in a gripping showdown against Wayne Perry at the Westview Bowling Club in Gqeberha on Sunday. The final, played in blustery conditions, saw both players locked in a tense race to 21 shots, with the scores remaining neck-and-neck in the early stages. Perry, representing the Wingate Park Country Club, matched Ferns for much of the match with precision draw shots and measured composure. But as the game entered its crucial phases, Ferns — also playing out of the Wingate Park Country Club — found another gear. A string of telling shots allowed him to build a steady lead, applying scoreboard pressure which ultimately proved too much for White to overcome. Ferns sealed the victory 21-16, earning not only the coveted singles crown but also a berth in the prestigious World Champion of Champions event set to be played later this year in Sydney. In the fours final, Paul White's Westville team let an early 8-0 lead slip against the powerhouse quartet led by fellow Gold Squad member Niksa Benguric. Backed by the formidable trio of Driaan van Niekerk, Perry and CP Mathewson, Benguric's side stormed back with clinical shot-making and relentless pressure to claim a resounding 24-14 win. The pairs final saw the Knysna Bowling Club shine brightly as Billy Radloff and John Rimbault delivered a dominant performance. Their aggressive, front-foot style proved too much for Logan Sobramony and Mike Underwood, who struggled to keep pace. Radloff and Rimbault surged to a convincing victory, sealing a proud moment for the coastal club who celebrate their centenary this year. In the veterans' final, it was Otto Holicki who prevailed over Arnie Muscat after soaring out to an initial lead which he never let go of. — Bowls SA
The Herald
24-05-2025
- Sport
- The Herald
Bowls SA Open set for thrilling finale
Perfect bowling conditions greeted players and spectators alike at the Westview Bowling Club as the Bowls SA Men's Open reached a thrilling climax with semifinal action across the pairs, fours, and singles disciplines unfolding on Saturday. A day of top-quality play saw experience and composure shine through under the pressure of competition, which brings the best of the best to Gqeberha. In the pairs, the Knysna duo of Billy Radloff and John Rimbault showcased consistency and tactical precision to edge out Donny Piketh and Mike Herbert of Morningside Country Club. The semifinal was tightly contested, with the momentum swinging midway through the game. In the end, it was Radloff and Rimbault who managed to keep their nerve when it counted most as the pressure finally told down the business end. They secured a 17-11 victory in a match where the scoreline didn't quite reflect the closeness of the battle, earning themselves a deserved spot in the final against Mickey Underwood and Logan Sobramany (Comrades Bowling Club). The fours discipline saw two compelling semifinals unfold in the afternoon, where the sun baked the greens and the perfect surfaces allowed for some excellent shot-making. Current Protea Niksa Benguric led his star-studded team in the final after a fast start against the quartet led by Wilson Malobolo. The match was enthralling as Malobolo's side clawed their way back to within five shots but ultimately fell short in a 28-17 defeat. In the other semifinal, it was an all-Port Natal affair as Paul White's team overcame Wayne Roberts' side 20-11. White's leadership proved instrumental, guiding his team with precision and calm to secure a crucial victory and a place in the gold medal match. Meanwhile, the Open singles semifinals delivered the kind of high-stakes drama expected at this level. Former SA international Wayne Perry was in devastating form as he ended the hopes of Mowbray's Dave van der Walt in a commanding display. Perry's line and length were nearly flawless, and he advanced to the final with a clinical 21-8 win. Awaiting him was Brendan Ferns, who produced a spirited fightback from Aiden De Smidt in a tightly-fought match, eventually triumphing 21-17. Ferns needed to produce quality bowls time and time again as he came from 17-12 behind to move within one of representing SA at the World Champion of Champions later in the year. With brilliant weather and more excellent bowls to follow, the Westview Bowling Club is set to witness a showcase of SA talent on Sunday as new champions emerge with the right to be called national champions. And it might even be a golden day for Perry, who competes in not one but two finals as he looks to win singles and fours gold. Sunday's action starts at 8.30am. — Bowls SA
The Herald
18-05-2025
- Sport
- The Herald
Men's SA Open bowls tournament in full swing throughout Nelson Mandela Bay
The Bowls SA Men's SA Open started on Saturday and is set to continue until Sunday. Hosted by EP Bowls Association, the tournament's headquarters are at Walmer Bowling Club, with Westview Bowling Club serving as the sub-headquarters. The event has attracted a diverse group of competitors, showcasing the depth of talent in South African bowls. After two days of play, the competition has been fierce, with several matches decided by narrow margins. Players have demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship, setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the tournament. Detailed results and match statistics are available on the official Bowls SA website. Rob Forbes, a representative of EP Bowls, spoke about the significance of hosting the event: 'Bringing the Men's SA Open to our region has invigorated the local bowls community. The enthusiasm and participation we've seen are testaments to the sport's growing appeal,' Forbes said. Bowls SA president David Hamer detailed the broader picture. 'Events like the Men's SA Open are crucial for the development of bowls in SA. They not only provide a platform for competition but also foster community engagement and promote the sport's values.' As the tournament progresses, anticipation builds for the upcoming matches. For more information, including match schedules and results, visit the Bowls SA website. — Bowls SA
