Game can't afford to ignore it

Posté le 27/04/2010 à 11:49 - Laisser un commentaire

MANAWATU'S performance in completing a clean sweep in the regional intercentre playoffs at the weekend was an effort full of merit.

Hawkes's Bay, Wairarapa and Gisborne-East Coast were the other centres involved, but Manawatu's depth and, perhaps, home advantage were the deciders.

The senior men's and women's teams now go on to the national final, but I have to question the shortsightedness of not having such a progression for the development teams.

A **** that has uncertainty about its future surely cannot afford to ignore its next echelon to the top flight.

There would need to be only one more tournament to decide a New Zealand title. More's the pity for our men's development team, which links of london charms only dropped half a **** and would be competitive at any level.

You also have to consider a centre like Gisborne-East Coast, which made a 12-hour return trip. It must be hard for selectors to get their teams' best performances on the green without the incentive to go on to a national title.

Both Manawatu selectors, Lyn Elphick and Eric Watson, have been prepared to make selections that have raised an eyebrow or two, so they can feel vindicated and well-pleased.

* Northern confirmed their status as the club with the best playing depth by winning both men's and women's second-division interclub playoffs and they head to the national finals in late March.

* Barry Wynks and Henselite are arranging a series of demonstration days with Gary Lawson in the Manawatu on March 11-12.

If you would like to be involved, contact Barry on 027.457.1378 or . Gary Lawson may have his troubles, but there is no doubting his genius. Bowlers and non-bowlers alike are welcome.

* I hear a whisper Palmerston North's Pat Horgan is a far better bowler than he is a fisherman and jetskier. Something about the Foxton bar and an unscheduled swim!

* Grant Catterick, who was one of our most promising bowlers before heading to Melbourne three years ago, will settle back in Palmerston North this month.

While in Melbourne, Grant was good enough to win the senior singles at the RSL club he played at, which had more than 600 bowlers. This helped earn him a Victoria state team trial before he moved to Perth and again won his club singles. He will be a welcome addition to the competitive ranks.

* On a personal level, I completed the set of all Manawatu clubs by playing in a tournament at Pahiatua last Friday.

Being on the cusp of the Wairarapa district, they attracted bowlers from both centres. Like most country clubs, they are short of a few members, but they never forget how to welcome guests properly.

Thomas sabo charms * There are some outstanding men's tournaments coming up over the next two months, particularly Dannevirke's classic fours, Terrace End's Aussie pairs and Te Kawau's classic fours.

What stands out, however, is the singular lack of a weekend women's tournament. Looks to be a real opportunity for a club to fill the gap.

* Champion-of-champions triples for men and women is at Hokowhitu this weekend and don't forget Northern's hospice tournament.

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