The bowls National Championships for fours and mixed pairs are being held at Alexandra Bowling Club (ABC) over the next ten days (February 23 - March 2)

ABC manager Paul Jerrom (PJ) said players were coming from across New Zealand which would have great flow on effects for accommodation providers, supermarkets, vineyards, tourist spots and hospitality businesses.

“At last count there were 122 Men's Fours teams, 66 Women's Fours teams and 238 mixed pairs teams,” PJ said. 

“The greens are in great shape, the head greenkeeper and president have them peaking to perfection.”

A grant from Pub Charity and Otago Community Trust has covered the cost of the clubhouse being painted for the first time since 1984. 

“It has been a huge effort by the club members to get ready for this event, but we are very proud of our club and are keen for as many visitors as possible to come along, see our facilities and see what the game of lawn bowls has to offer.”

Commonwealth Games representative from Omakau Pam Walker, local former Black Jack Pat Houlahan, the newly crowned singles champions Selina Goddard (Auckland) and Sheldon Bagrie-Howley (Gore) are some of the big names in bowling who will be there.

Bruce Walker (coach and husband) of award winning para bowler Pam Walker

Current international bowlers Gary Lawson, Jamie Hill, Tony Grantham, Mandy Boyd are also playing and former world singles champions Peter Belliss is playing in the fours and the mixed pairs. 

“Alexandra pair Linley O'Callaghan and Trevor Drake will be strong [too],” PJ said.

“Local businesses have been great… shout outs to Super liquor, Fulton Hogan, and New World especially.”

The rain has been timed perfectly according to PJ.

“Looks like it will be cooler than the mid thirties we were getting… it will be more comfortable for players and spectators.”

Entry is free, a coffee van, barbecue and cafe will be running. Parking is available in the IceInline car park. 

Finals and prize giving for the men’s and women’s fours is on Sunday afternoon/ evening (February 26) and for the mixed pairs it’s Thursday (March 2).

Other bowling clubs in Central Lakes are hosting games including Bannockburn, Clyde, Cromwell, Omakau, Patearoa, Ranfurly, Roxburgh, Waipiata, Wānaka, Arrowtown and Queenstown.

Play will be live streamed on the Bowls New Zealand YouTube channel and the Sky pop up channel 600. 

Find more information on Nationals 2023 here.