#IBDChamps: SA’s Beetge hopes for singles medal after pairs success

After claiming a bronze in the men’s B7 pairs with his partner, Eric Streso, SA’s Nico Beetge plans to add an individual medal to his tally after winning his opening International Bowls for the Disabled (IBD) singles match at the Benoni Central Bowling Club on May 25.

Beetge defeated England’s Colin Milner 21-11 in a dominant match he led from start to finish despite struggling on a few ends early on.

Milner struggled with his weight and length, with a few of his shots landing in the ditch, but Beetge enjoyed the home-ground advantage, keeping the same line throughout.

“I saw Colin struggle when he got fast. His weight wasn’t great. I feel good. I struggled with getting used to the green in the beginning. There’s a very narrow end. If you take too much grass, the ball hangs out,” he said.

The South African expressed his delight after his win, saying he stuck to his pre-game strategy despite a nervy start to the match.

“I broke my game into three parts. I first got to seven, then 14 and, lastly, 21. I struggled a bit. There were a few ends where Colin picked up about four points, but I told myself to relax,” Beetge said.

“My goal now is to stay on top. I will take it one game at a time and want to be on top in my section.”

England’s Anthony Page described the competition as challenging, saying he was happy to represent his country internationally for the first time.

“It’s a tremendous experience being here and competing at such high-level bowls. The weather is fabulous,” Page said.

“It’s my first time playing internationally. It’s hard. We have to concentrate always. It’s challenging, but I’m enjoying the experience.”

The Englishman started his singles run with a 19-21 loss to Scotland’s Stuart Stevens. He said his goal is to win his first world championship medal.

“The ultimate goal is to try and win a medal. But being part of the experience and meeting new people is eye-opening. We are on a world stage, and I’m enjoying it.

“I’m blessed to be here. It proves what I can achieve and what’s achievable in the game of bowls. Back home, I play at a good level. So, to get picked to play for my country on a world stage is next level. It’s truly amazing putting on this jersey and playing against bowlers from other countries,” Page said.

The competition will conclude with the finals on May 31 at the Delville Bowling Club in Germiston.

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