Firwood Bowling Club hosts successful Newbies tournament for novice bowlers

Cheryl Waterman

On Saturday May 3, Firwood Bowling Club rolled out the welcome mat for fresh talent as they hosted the monthly Newbies tournament—a competition dedicated exclusively to bowlers with four official years or less on the greens. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Envirosan and Shaun O’Brien, the event continues to grow in popularity, giving new bowlers a well-matched and encouraging environment to develop their skills and compete with confidence.

This month’s event saw 26 pairs teams take to the greens, showcasing a mix of spirited competition and friendly camaraderie. With two games of ten ends played in a 2-4-2 format—which rotates players through both lead and skip positions—the tournament gave participants a valuable opportunity to test themselves in both roles. The format, which awarded one point per end and two points per game, ensured every bowl counted.

After the first round, winners moved forward to face other first-round victors, while those on the back foot had a shot at redemption in the plate section. At the end of a lively morning’s play, it was Hillcrest BC’s Colin Wagner and Marcel Wichura who emerged victorious, notching up an impressive score of 20 + 29. Close behind in second place were Firwood BC’s Kevin Temple and Tye Smit with 18 + 14. Queensburgh BC’s Swan Hezlett and Margaret Brown rounded off the top three with a solid performance.

The plate section also delivered its share of competitive excitement. Wentworth BC’s Terence van der Westhuizen and Dave Pittaway claimed the top spot ahead of Joe Owen and Ryan Reynolds from Durban Collegians BC.

Feedback from participants echoed a recurring sentiment: the Newbies tournament is a rare and welcome chance to play on more even footing, with strength matched against strength. Many confirmed their intention to participate until their Newbie status expired. 

Among the competitors were four young bowlers preparing for upcoming challenges in the PNB Under 25 Singles and the PNB Junior Masters Championship, scheduled for 24–25 May at Amanzimtoti BC. Firwood’s Tye Smit, along with Queens BC’s Keanu Karanja and sisters Jade and Taylor Laden, all praised the Newbies tournament for its inclusive, relaxed atmosphere.

Jade noted how older, more experienced players often step in with helpful advice—a contrast to the often high-pressure tone of open competitions. All four youngsters also expressed appreciation for the support and coaching offered by Michelle Tovey, especially in preparation for the recent BSA Junior Nationals.

Meanwhile, greens around the district were buzzing on Sunday, as round-robin matches kicked off for the Port Natal Men’s Open, Veterans and Under 25 Mixed Singles. The playoffs for the 34 Open Men’s section winners begin at Hillcrest BC on Saturday 10 May, while 45 Veteran winners will battle it out at Parkhill BC. Play continues through Sunday to the finals. Also on Sunday, Amanzimtoti BC will host the qualifying eight Under 25 players as they compete for the 2025 title.