An impressive turnout of enthusiastic spectators, as well as high-quality bowling by some of Northern Cape Bowls’ (NCB) top lawn bowlers, marked the province’s U30 Masters and Veterans Masters competition the past weekend in Kimberley.
- In the U30 Masters event at the Sol Plaatje West End Bowls Club, CP Mathewson continued his dominant form following his recent Bowls South Africa Masters appearance. In the final, he faced Diann Cilliers, who put up a commendable fight, but Mathewson’s experience and consistency proved too strong.
The battle for third place between Driaan van Niekerk and Diddi Osmers turned into a dramatic showdown, with rain pouring down in the final ends. Both maintained their composure under tough conditions, but Van Niekerk ultimately secured the bronze medal.
- In the men’s Veterans Masters event at the Beaconsfield Park Bowling Club, Shaun Campher continued his outstanding form, adding another major title to his name after strong showings in the Kimberley and Northern Cape Singles. His final match against Esly Lombaard was a well-fought contest, but Campher emerged victorious, securing the 2025 NCB Men’s Veterans Masters title.
Lombaard played a strong and consistent tournament but ultimately fell short in the final.
In the third-place playoff, Stephan Enslin and Wilhelm Malan delivered one of the most thrilling matches of the weekend. Both players showcased incredible skill, but Enslin managed to edge out Malan to claim the bronze medal.
- After finishing as runner-up in the Kalahari and NCB Singles Finals, Susan Leeuwner finally had her moment, producing a brilliant performance to defeat Tereace Schoeman and secure the 2025 NCB Women’s Veterans Masters title.
Schoeman played a superb tournament, dominating her section before reaching the final. Though she fell short, she has plenty to be proud of after an excellent performance.
In another hard-fought match, Laura Fouché battled Louise Oosthuizen for third place. It was a close contest, but Fouché’s experience proved decisive as she secured the bronze medal.
Organisers extended sincere gratitude to the markers who ensure the smooth running of the event. Some traveled from as far as Upington (400 km) and Hanover (320 km) to assist. Their dedication did not go unnoticed and played a vital role in the tournament’s success.
– Driaan van Niekerk
