Extra coaching pays off,Richter runner-up in schoolgirls’ singles

Paige Ritcher

BOWLS

Lytton High School’s Paige Richter finished runner-up of the Bowls New Zealand national secondary schools girls’ singles played at Auckland’s Carlton Cornwall Bowling Club this week.

Richter turned in a fine performance in her first appearance at this level, as did Campion College student Angela Gibson-Sam.

Both won their quarterfinal matches. They then had to play each other in the semifinals.

Each player won a set in a close match, which Richter won on a one-end tiebreaker that was only decided by a close measure.

In the final against Waiheke High School’s Laura Tauniva, Richter was unable to match her opponent and lost two sets to nil.

Gisborne Boy’s High School’s Ashli Ferris was unlucky not to make the quarterfinals in the boys’ singles.

In his last game in section play he was up against the undefeated Alex Cross from Southland Boys’ High School. Cross won the game in a last-bowl thriller that denied Ferris a place in the quarterfinals.

All three students had completed two months of intensive coaching and training for the event and this dedication was evident in their results.

Their support crew included centre youth bowls co-ordinator Anne Day, centre president Mark Bain, parents, coaches and helpers in Gisborne. They were represented by Gus McCabe at the venue.

The Lawn Bowls Promotion and Development Trust made a grant towards the cost of accommodating the players and their support crew in Auckland.

A total of 137 secondary school students played in the event and organisers Auckland Bowls are looking forward to a much bigger entry next year.