The finals highlighted exceptional bowling skills, with Kieran Kelly and Keegan Minopetros playing key roles in their team’s success.
The greens of the Northern Cape resounded with the clatter of bowls and the cheers of supporters as the top 16 fours teams competed in the prestigious Northern Cape Bowls Fours competition.
Men’s matches took place at Sol Plaatje West End Bowls Club, while the Women’s matches and the Men’s and Women’s semi-finals were played at Beaconsfield Park Bowling Green Club. The weekend, at both venues, was filled with exceptional talent, thrilling matches, and heartwarming moments of triumph.
In the men’s division, two teams from Beaconsfield Park reached the finals. David Paulse’s team defeated Wihan Smit’s from Bloemhof, while CP Mathewson’s team triumphed over Andries van der Walt’s from Hanover.
The finals highlighted exceptional bowling skills, with Kieran Kelly and Keegan Minopetros playing key roles in their team’s success. Ultimately, David Paulse, Scotty Elliot, and the two youngsters emerged as NCB Fours champions, fulfilling a long-held aspiration for Keegan Minopetros and bringing pride to the entire team.
“While this marks our inaugural year as a unit,” Keegan explained, “I’ve previously shared the greens with Kieran and Scotty in other tournaments, laying the groundwork for our success today.
“Our focus now shifts to representing the Northern Cape in the upcoming quadrangular event, where we’ll pit our skills against formidable opponents from the Northern Free State, Southern Free State, and North West. This expansion from a triangular to a quadrangular format is a historic moment for the tournament.”
Looking ahead, his ambitions extend beyond this victory. His aim is to dominate in more Kimberley sub-district and NC Bowls competitions, carving out a reputation not just within our province but across the nation.
Kieran told the DFA that securing a win in the NC’s main competitions has been a long-time goal, and finally achieving it alongside his teammates fills him with immense pride.
“My camaraderie with my teammates runs deep, particularly with Keegan, one of my closest friends, with whom I’ve shared the greens for nearly three years. Together, we’ve worked tirelessly to showcase our skills and earn the respect of our more seasoned counterparts.
“While I may not have had as much experience playing alongside Uncle David and Uncle Scotty, their wealth of knowledge and unwavering support have made every match a seamless experience,” he said.
Looking ahead, Kieran’s focus shifts to the upcoming quadrangular tournament against teams from the Northern and Southern Free State and the North West. But for now, he is channelling his energy into the groundwork, sharpening his skills, and addressing any weaknesses to ensure he stays grounded and focused.
Yet, his sights remain fixed on the horizon, eagerly anticipating the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.
“My sights are set on the Under-30 nationals, where I aim to uphold the Northern Cape’s honour and bring home the trophy once more.”
Amidst the victories, the runners-up and third-place finishers also displayed commendable performances. CP Mathewson’s team secured the runner-up position, while Andries van der Walt’s team clinched third place in a tightly contested play-off.
In the women’s division, it was a triumphant moment for Marietjie van den Berg, Maryke van der Westhuizen, Lize-Marie van Lill, and Anna-Marie van Zyl from Upington as they emerged as champions. Their victory was met with applause, with Sonja Bean’s team from Sishen securing the runner-up position.
In a heartening testament to the passing of the torch in the Northern Cape’s bowls scene, veteran player David Paulse expressed his elation for the younger generation following their resounding victory in the Northern Cape Fours competition.
Despite boasting personal victories in both the Kimberley Sub District and the Northern Cape Fours competition twice this season, Paulse’s joy knows no bounds for his youthful teammates.
“For me, it’s not about the individual accolades,” Paulse remarked to the DFA. “I’ve tasted success before. But witnessing the triumph of our younger players, who clinched their maiden victory in the Kimberley Sub District competition and subsequently qualified for the prestigious Northern Cape Fours, fills me with unparalleled pride.”
Paulse’s sentiment underscores a shift in focus towards nurturing and celebrating the rising talent within the bowls community. As he graciously steps back to applaud the achievements of his teammates, it’s evident that Paulse’s support and encouragement will continue to pave the way for future successes on the greens.
