Despite a dip in entries, this year’s 1–5 Triples competition had it all: quality action and thrilling upsets – a display of grit, talent, and emerging stars.

A tournament of highs and surprises

Twenty-two men’s and ten women’s teams, each chasing two wins to progress to post-section. From the get-go, surprises kept spectators on edge. The most notable upset came from the St Heliers women’s trio—despite a lineup shuffle—an uncharacteristic result for a club known for strength in triples.

On the men’s side, both St Heliers teams advanced with ease, while regular contenders Colin Ayris-Webster and Hitesh Ranchhod faced unexpected early exits.

Sunday: A marathon of bowls

Sunday featured four demanding rounds that tested every team’s endurance. 1–5 selectors were out in force, keeping tabs on current squad players and scouting rising talent. The quarterfinals were nail-biters across the board, every match decided by just a few shots—a testament to the tightly matched field.

As the semi-finals began, spectators stayed glued to the action. Nicole and Lee Singer, playing with Rebecca Brosnan, were convincingly toppled 25–10 by Howick’s Lea Hooper-led team. Meanwhile, Mt Wellington’s Sam Brack, teaming up with two newer juniors, edged out Steve Fisher’s side 14–13 with a last-end clincher.

Finals deliver dramatic matches

The finals didn’t disappoint. David Weir, making a return after ongoing Achilles issues, guided his Howick team through three tight matches to reach the final. In a gripping contest, Howick edged out Brack’s side 14–13, securing a hard-fought and tense victory.

The Howick women completed the club double, continuing their semi-final momentum to defeat Blockhouse Bay, skipped by the experienced Hemoata Brown and featuring 1–5 Singles champ Penny Yam.

This year’s 1–5 Triples wrapped up with a great blend of experience and new talent finding success on the green. The juniors now get a short break before winter coaching resumes in late June. Attention turns to the upcoming Winter Rep Quad in Cambridge on 5 July. Player availability has been requested, with team announcements just around the corner—so stay tuned!

Looking ahead

The 1–5 Triples concluded with a perfect blend of experience and fresh faces rising to the occasion. With a short break before winter coaching starts in late June, focus now shifts to the Winter Rep Quad in Cambridge on 5 July. Player availability is in—and the final team announcement is just around the corner – so stay tuned!

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