Changing the face of ‘old man’s marbles’
The sport of lawn bowls has, for many years, been considered a game played by old people only.
Kleinfontein Bowling Club in Mackenzie Park has, however, thrown these views open to debate.
For a while the club has been encouraging and developing young people to take up the sport and is now benefiting from a growing number of u-19 members with sufficient skills to be able to compete at club, district and provincial level.
For the past two years the club has had an active development programme with Ephes Mamkde School, in Wattville, to encourage young boys and girls to enjoy the game.
The success of this programme has already resulted in these youngsters representing the district in inter-provincial competitions. They have also become strong enough to earn selection to represent the club in the premium and first divisions of the district women’s and men’s leagues.
The success story does not end there.
Club chairwoman Wendy Fleetwood said that the club is particularly proud of two of their younger members, Banele Ngam and Mzwakhe Toni, who, through hard work and practise, have managed to reach the final of the club’s men’s pair championship.
“Both players are under the age of 16 years and we believe they are the youngest players to reach such a club final in South African bowls history,” she added.
“To encourage the development of these young bowlers and to give them greater experience, this year we are also entering a full team of u-16 players from Wattville into the district division five league.
“They will be supported and managed by some of our senior players, and we have already received many compliments from other clubs regarding the players’ ability, manners and sportsmanship.
“This exposure will really help them grow.”
The club offers free coaching on Saturday afternoons and on Sunday mornings for all ages and levels of bowlers.
Anyone interested in trying the game can contact club coach Denise Field on 073 100 9683.
