The weekend marked a historic milestone for Auckland’s lawn bowls legacy as Carlton Cornwall Bowls and Auckland Bowling Club secured a remarkable double victory, clinching the Men’s and Women’s National 7s Championships!
It’s a first-ever for the Auckland region and only the third time since records started in 1991 that a regional centre has claimed both titles!
For Auckland Bowling Club – the history goes further – it’s their first national team victory since their inception in 1861. On the other hand, Carlton Cornwall Women are already in the history books having secured a National Interclub victory, back in 2014.
National 7s competition is hailed as the ultimate club challenge in New Zealand as regional champions from across the country converged in Auckland for an intense battle to claim the title of the strongest club in the nation.
The format of the competition, featuring seven players per team competing in Singles, Pairs, and Fours disciplines, demanded a blend of individual excellence and cohesive teamwork. Both clubs faced tough contenders in the qualifying rounds to advance in the competition, needing two wins out of the three disciplines in each round.
Among the standout performers for Auckland BC were Kerry Chapman and Jamie Hill. Kerry won his fifth National title, earning him the coveted Silver Star and Jamie with his sixth. It was not just seasoned veterans who shone on the green. 15-year-old prodigy, Liam Hill won his first National title, showing composure and skill beyond his years.
A heartfelt congratulations to both teams for their outstanding performances; you’ve brought immense pride to our region with your achievements.