New Zealand representatives Andrew Kelly, Blake Signal, Sarah Scott and Nicole Toomey are gearing up for a huge week at the prestigious Hong Kong International Bowls Classic, lining up against top worldwide talents in their bid for silverware and international acclaim.

Hosted by the Hong Kong Lawn Bowls Association, the event was inaugurated in 1981 and since that year, more than 700 top overseas competitors have passed through, gaining high praise and reputation as a premier event on the world’s bowling calendar.

The Classic will see participating players from Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, England, Ireland, Malaysia, Malta, Phillipines, Scotland, Thailand, Wales and of course, New Zealand, among a star-studded local field from nearby clubs.

Kelly, last year’s national singles runner-up and PBA representative, will be one to watch as he makes his return to Hong Kong hoping to emulate his 2009 winning efforts in the men’s pairs, this time teaming with Signal, a World Fours Champion and multiple national champion in a combination that promises plenty.

Both Kelly and Signal will be looking to impress in the men’s singles too, with Kelly drawn up against KBGC local Harris Koon and Signal to take on CCC representative Lee Ka Ho in round one.

Meanwhile, former development representatives Scott and Toomey, will be relishing their opportunity to step-up to the big play, with both showing promising form in recent seasons and creating strong expectations around their performance.

In the women’s singles, Scott will line-up opposite Hong Kong Youth Development squad member Cherry Tsoi ,while Toomey will look to get her campaign off to a good start against Tuen Mun Sports Association’ hopeful Cindy Pang.

Both Scott and Toomey will also combine in the women’s pairs to form a formidable obstacle for any opposition, first scheduled to take on the Hong Kong duo of Helen Cheung and Jenny Miu, followed by a tough contest opposite the Brunei pairing of MD Suhana and Muntol Ajijah.

Host venues include the Craigengower Cricket Club, Indian Recreation Club and the famed Hong Kong Football Club premises – renowned for its wide-beauty and welcome culture.

Singles play is set to get underway on November 10, with the cut-throat format providing plenty of pressure and excitement along the way.

-END

For competition information visit Hong Kong Lawn Bowls Association, click HERE