SA’s #1 gives back to bowls

The country’s number-one masters lawn bowler Jason Evans gave back to the game by sharing some tips, secrets, techniques and even mental aspects with fellow players at the Krugersdorp Bowling Club on Wednesday October 5.

His most important tips? Be focused, capable, determined and enjoy it.

Born in Wales, Evans moved to South Africa with his family at age 11. He started playing bowls when he was 13.

To date, the 50-year-old has amassed almost 300 caps for the rainbow nation and some of his biggest achievements include winning the Atlantic Championship in Wales, two bronze medals in the World Indoor Championships in Birmingham this year as well as being the current and three-time consecutive SA Masters Champion.

His father was also good bowler in his own right having represented not only Welsh County but Western Province.

With the club packed to the rafters and bowlers listening in amazement, Evans started out by emphasising the importance of consistency for an individual player.

“Do everything exactly the same from your stance on the mat, holding the bowl and keeping your line, to swinging your arm when delivering,” he said.

Regarding stance and line, Evans said, “Everything starts here. Don’t stand square and throw across. Visualise your line. I look for a spot approximately five metres away and throw in the line I visualised. Another very important thing is to point your feet to that line you visualised.”

About delivery, he said, “Keep your palm up. Arm swing is also very important. Keep your arm straight. People talk about quicker and slower greens but it’s all in the swing. Either slow it down or go faster. Again, consistency. It’s about what works for you.”

As far as a team game is concerned, Evans referred to the Lead as the most important player in the side, saying “They sacrifice themselves for the good of the team. They throw the Jack where the Skip wants it, and where the team wants it. 50% of their bowls must be two feet from the Jack.”

The Skip, he said, has to be clever and dictates the game. He or she is the shot-maker. “Encouraging your teammates is also very important. You are in this together.”

About sportsmanship Evans continued, “If you win 21–1 be nice. Go shake the hands of your opponents because it can always happen to you. If you have an off-day, reset yourself.

“Get off the green, drink some water, do something different by changing hats, start again and go through your routine that has been working for you. Go to the bathroom if you must (not every two minutes of course) and even wash your face.”

Asked about his tactics and strategy, Evans replied, “I break it up. Go hard for that first seven ends. Have the ability and belief and back yourself – own the green. Stick to your routine and what has been working and continue the momentum the next seven. Finally, be a ‘bully’ and put the nail in the coffin in the final seven.”