Auckland’s 1-5 rep squad delivered a statement performance over the weekend, claiming top honours in both the men’s and women’s divisions of the 1–5 Year Winter Quad. A brief downpour flooded the greens during the lunch break, but it wasn’t enough to stop play resuming in the beautiful parkland setting of the Cambridge Bowling Club beside the mighty Waikato River.

Men’s Recap

Auckland was a class above in the men’s competition, completing the day unbeaten with three wins and an impressive +56 shot differential. Waikato followed in second, while Thames Valley edged Counties Manukau for third.

In the singles, Peter McConnell led from the front with three hard-fought wins. The Pairs team of Sam Brack and Graham Lewis battled to earn two determined draws. The Triples, superbly skipped by Phil Garratt, went undefeated with three wins, while the Fours picked up one victory from their matches, playing some excellent bowls in tightly contested encounters.

Men’s Final Standings

1. Auckland – 6 Match Points | 18 Rink Points | +56
2. Waikato – 4 Match Points | 14 Rink Points | +10
3. Thames Valley – 4 Match Points | 12 Rink Points | +3
4. Counties Manukau – 0 Match Points | 4 Rink Points | -69

 Women’s Recap

Auckland continued their winning ways in the women’s division, finishing with three wins and an impressive +79 shot margin. Waikato once again placed second, with Thames Valley and Counties Manukau completing the table.

In singles play, Penny Yam delivered two clinical wins, while Sacha Collins (Titirangi) capitalised on her opportunity with a composed victory of her own. The Pairs, confidently skipped by Hannah Dawson, provided valuable experience for emerging players facing seasoned opponents. After a draw and a loss in earlier rounds, the Triples bounced back with a commanding win over Waikato to finish strong. Meanwhile, the Fours combination of Melanie Swami, Tracey Brayshaw, Donna Davison, and Katey Merritt stayed consistent all day, completing a clean sweep with three wins.

Women’s Final Standings

1. Auckland – 6 Match Points | 17 Rink Points | +79
2. Waikato – 3 Match Points | 14 Rink Points | +32
3. Thames Valley– 2 Match Point | 8 Rink Points | -80
4. Counties Manukau– 1 Match Points | 9 Rink Points | -31

Combined Result

Combining both the men’s and women’s performances, Auckland were the clear overall centre champions, showcasing the strength of our 1–5 Year development pathways.

It was a proud moment for coaches and selectors alike, highlighting the squad’s depth and talent. New players quickly embraced the team culture and made immediate contributions to a successful campaign. The squad now heads into the winter coaching phase ahead of next season’s rep trials. Selectors already anticipate tough decisions ahead of the first fixture in October. Naming a squad, let alone the final 10-player side, will not be easy.