Written by Stu Piddington for Timaru Herald
Sean O’Neill is the toast of the Kia Toa Bowling Club after winning the national club singles title.
O’Neill was in a tough battle with Johnston Park’s Steven Love at the Taieri Bowling Club.
They were tied 16-all on the 17th end when O’Neill delivered a killer blow with three shots.
The 44-year-old then grabbed two singles on the next two ends to win 21-16.
O’Neill was totally delighted.
“I’m totally stoked, it was awesome.
“I managed to get a good three on the 17th and it gave me the momentum.”
O’Neill said Love very well and it was a great final.
The former Black Jack also had to battle with Kapiti’s Rhys Hakkens in the timed semi-final before winning 16-13.
To win a national title at any time is great, especially so in singles. There is something about a singles title.
“It is right up their with my open fours title.”
O’Neill said it was great to keep South Canterbury’s flag flying at a national event.
“It is good for Kia Toa too.”
In the women’s singles Burnside’s Tayla Bruce cruised past Clinton’s Wynette McLauchlan 21-11.
McLauchlan started well and was up 6-4 at the seventh end.
Black Jack Bruce however produced four shots on the next end and kept her run going.
âThe win means O’Neill can put his feet up and watch his South Canterbury club-mates in the pairs and fours over the weekend.
“I’ve given the boys a good start, lets hope they can keep things rolling.”
The only slight disappointment for O’Neill was his 11-year-old son Jack did not see him play
The younger O’Neill only took up bowls last year but have already played in the Kia Toa triple championship together with some success.
“Yes Jack wanted to come but it didn’t work out. He will be happy for his dad.”
West End’s Gary Ford and Scott Fisher will play in the pairs while Dinga Bell, Des Shea and Lachie Barnes from Kia Toa will play in the triples.
The four is made up of West End’s Barrie Andrews, Gary Ford, Don Johnstone and youngster Tom Taiaroa.
The National Club Championship start at centre level in the singles, pairs, triples and fours.
The players from each team are all from the same club and progress having won their centre playoffs.
