Kukerin Bowling Club

Pictured: Kukerin ladies in their smart uniforms at the end of the days play,
L-R; Jenny Joyce, Debbie Smith, Therese King, Beverley Davidson, Claudia Faulkner.
Kukerin ladies played their Championship singles last weekend March 10 and 11 in a round robin format. Saturday’s conditions were very trying with strong and gusting winds blowing across the green. Conditions on Sunday were somewhat better, although still trying - however some very close and good matches were played.
The final game and deciding match for this year’s Club Champion was between Debbie Smith and Beverley Davidson – this proved to be a thriller. Debbie came out of the blocks early and held the lead for a big majority of the contest. Bev, with a never say die attitude, closed the gap and finally won in a very good game of bowls. Bev will now represent the club in the League play-offs in April.
The men’s championships commenced on Sunday and some very close and high class bowls were played in the testing conditions. The final four players left in the event to play semi-finals and final next Sunday, are Ross Ditchburn, Peter Davidson, Matthew King, and Ian Faulkner. This ensures there will be a new champion, as the Clive Bahr, winner from the last three seasons, was eliminated during the days play.
Next Saturday March 17, Kukerin will be at home to play the pennant semi-final against Kondinin. Players are reminded the finals commence one hour earlier than usual home and away games. There will be pennant practise commencing at 5.00 pm for all who can attend.
Sunday’s starting time will be advised by the Captain on Saturday evening.
Article by P Adams
Dumbleyung Tennis Club
Dudinin won amid a very tense game against Tarin Rock whilst Dumbleyung played at home against Kukerin – this was always going to be a closely contested game. The wind influenced the days play and blew hot and cold. The comradeship between the two teams has always made for great entertainment and awesome matches during the day. Birthday girl Julie Ditchburn played magnificent tennis, with two tiebreakers - one with husband Nathan (and not having any arguments along the way which I was extremely impressed with, what a great husband/wife combination). What a keeper! Everyone take note of this husband and wife team.
Paul King impressed his wife with five sets for the day and played magnificently - must have been Amy and the kids who spurred him! Howie Ward, one of the stalwarts of the club, made a miraculous recovery and played with all the gusto of years gone by. Knowing that a win would produce another road trip of old.
With Dumbleyung down 10sets to 12sets and going into the mix, everyone was aware of the ‘do or die’ effort which would impact their reputation. After their Pennant practice on Thursday, Captain Ball eventually decided to keep the pair of Jon Ward and his partner together. Though he was not too sure about an older player pushing up, thank goodness for young legs and an awesome, keen, competitive, young Jon -playing exceptionally and winning both mixed sets.
Also remembering the trips of old, Jane Smith as usual excelled herself and with her partners won 5sets - especially the mixed doubles, with a crafty good looking Tom Pearce, every lady wants to partner with! Following last week's efforts by the Dumbleyung team, in winning all their mixed, Captain Ball, had to get this right for them to make the Grand Final. Perseverance prevailed, and Dumbleyung won a very closely contested mixed doubles, 18 sets 153 games to Kukerin 16 sets 154 games.
Some old codger has always said that even if you are losing, in sure you win as many games as you can as this can, as this can be crucial for the end result. An exhibition of fine tennis was played by all on the day. Congratulations to all players from both teams - a fantastic effort Dumbleyung and good luck this week against Dudinin.
Article by T Bartram