CLUB North Haven and Club Lake Cathie recently made history by co-hosting their first State Pennant Playoff for Bowls NSW, featuring Grade 7 Open Bowls Finals for the 2024/25 season.
Running from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 June, the event attracted over 200 players from across the state.
“We had sixteen clubs from across the state all competing for the state flag from Nyngan to Holbrook and beyond,” said Tim Harris, General Manager of Club North Haven.
In order to participate in this three-day tournament, each club had to first emerge victorious in their respective regions.
Day one of the tournament involved all 16 clubs competing in a series of rounds at both Lake Cathie and North Haven.
From here the top four teams from each pool progressed to the Quarter Finals, which were contested on Saturday.
On Sunday morning the Semi-Finals unfolded, ultimately leading to Port City and Manilla securing their spots in the final showdown.
After several closely contested rounds Port City eventually emerged victorious, defeating Manilla to claim the title.
Mick Hayes, captain of the Port City team, said Club North Haven and Club Lake Cathie “ran a great professional tournament”.
The win was the end of a long wait for silverware for Port City.
“Twenty-five years ago our club won a Grade 2 state flag, however this is the first Grade 7 win in the club’s history of 80 years.
“Adding to the win, Sandy Harris, our all-ability bowler, was named Player of the Event.”
Aside from the competitive aspect of the tournament, Mr Harris said the event provides tangible benefits for the region.
“The event provides a great economic boost for the Camden Haven area, with players and their supporters staying in motels, paying for petrol, buying dinner and visiting local shops,” he said.
By Kim AMBROSE
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