Swakopmund dominate first match of 2024 league

Lawn bowls
The thrilling opening encounter set the stage for an exciting season ahead.
  • 9 Months Ago 14 February 2024
The National Bowls League for 2024 kicked off with a fascinating match between Walvis Namib Park and Swakopmund Bowls Club last weekend at the latter’s artificial court.

Throughout the game, players displayed skill and technicality as players from the two neighbouring towns engaged in a fierce yet respectful competition.

Players executed calculated shots and placements at each end to obtain the upper hand in the fierce coastal derby.

The tension on the blue playing surface was palpable as momentum shifted back and forth, keeping supporters on the edge of their seats. The Swakopmund Bowls Club dominated Saturday’s matches, defeating Walvis Namib Park in the men’s fours (28-15), as well as in the women’s fours division (25-10).

Despite facing defeats in other divisions, Namib Park secured a win with their first mixed team. Subsequently, the Swakopmund club took the win with their second mixed team.

Ultimately, after a closely fought battle, the final result was announced. Beyond the outcome, the match exemplified the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines the local league.

The thrilling opening encounter between Walvis Namib Park and Swakopmund Bowls Club set the stage for an exciting season ahead in the Bowls League 2024, promising more memorable moments and intense competitions on the greens.

On Sunday, a return fixture for the coastal derby was played at the Walvis Bay club, where won the trips match between the first teams was won 29-20by Swakopmund, while Namib Park’s second team won their trips match 24-20.

According to the president of Swakopmund Bowls Club, Diana Viljoen, the club has seen quite significant growth in the last year. “We have gone from 12 members to 32 in the last year,” she said.

Both Walvis Namib Park and Swakopmund club have made some development to their fields. The clubs have deviated from the original grass lawn and have implemented artificial grass lawns. This implementation has proven to be more cost-effective and easier to maintain.

Walvis Namib Park captain Steven Peake said: “Apart from the artificial lawns being cost-effective it is also a great initiative to get schools more involved and an encouragement to implement bowling lawns of their own.”