WENTWORTH Bowling Club member Laura Todkill achieved a remarkable feat by reaching the top eight in the Port Natal Bowls 2024 Women’s Novice Singles Championship on January 20.
The Bluff resident made a notable entrance into the tournament, securing her spot in the last round of 16. This marked Todkill’s inaugural participation in an official bowling tournament. She won the first round against Hillary Bowling Club with a score of 21–14, and she faced a loss in the second round against Westville Bowling Club with a score of 21–15. Todkill posed as a challenge for many bowlers, despite only having been on the greens for five months.
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“It was such an amazing tournament to be a part of, and along the way, I met so many lovely people whom I’ve become close to. I am beyond proud of myself to have come so far in the short space of time I’ve been playing,” said Todkill.
Todkill credited her newfound passion for bowling to her late grandfather, a dedicated bowls player at the club. Fond memories of watching him play in her youth fuelled her interest in the game.
After her grandfather’s passing in 2020 and a move to Durban, Todkill frequented the Wentworth Bowling Club in his memory. Cheryl Waterman, the club president, encouraged her to join, and since then, there has been no turning back.
The rising bowler attributed her recent success in the Port Natal tournament to dedicated practice and hard work. On the day of the tournament, she said she prefers to do the opposite and just remain calm and ensure she keeps a peaceful mindset going into the game. Todkill said this is just the beginning, and slowly but surely, she will claim gold – soon.
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