adminHarare Bureau
A TEAM from Thailand arrived in the country yesterday to take part in the Zimbabwe October 5s Bowls tournament expected to get underway on Friday at City Bowling Club. The three-day tournament will have 16 teams taking part and this is the first time that a foreign side is participating in the event. The Thai team comprises Ian Mckissock, Ian Kellioh, Darryl Huppatz and Brian Walker.
Since the visitors have a four-member squad instead of five, the hosts will give them a fifth representative to complete their side.
City Bowling Club manager, Joyce Kachale, said all the teams have confirmed their participation.
“It’s one of the biggest tournaments for us and it’s good that all is in place.
“The Thailand side said they were going to bring in four players so we’ve given them a player from here. Manuel Silva is the player who agreed to help them.
“It’s going to be very interesting and competitive because the teams are free to mix and choose who they want in their team.
“This tournament has traditionally been for bowlers from all over Zimbabwe. The maximum number of teams that can enter is 18 and we believe that competition will be high as we have 16 teams.
“This competition is not strictly a club competition as bowlers can form teams with players from any club. So the best combinations may be formed to make winning teams.
“All is set now and we’re happy with the preparations,” said Kachale.
Zimbabwe Clubs Champion of Champions Clive Robertson said he was ready for the tournament.
Robertson’s team will have Caroline McDonnell, Kerry Stubbs, Ivan Pitout and Les Hayden.
“I’m ready and we’re well prepared. My brother (Colin) played Thailand at the China Open Bowls tournament and he told me they are a strong side.
“I’m sure we’ll be able to handle them, or even beat them, though they’re likely to be competitive.
“Personally, I’m glad to take part in the tournament and I’ll remain focused. I love bowls and am looking forward to October 5s,” said Robertson.
The local teams will have bowlers who have won big competitions before – Tom Craven, Colin Robertson, Kerry Craven, Julie Barnes, Ally Dale, Jono Evans, Malcolm Evans and Pierre de Villiers.
Online Reporter