Pinn family create Burton Cup history

PLAYERS AND THE PRIZE: Burton Cup winners (from left) Geoff Pinn, Paddy Stewart, Karen Pinn and Liam Pinn. Glenys Whiteman played on the first day and was replaced on the second day by Karen Pinn. Picture by Paul Rickard

by Ginny Sherriff and Herald staff

A candidate for most absorbing contest in town over the weekend was Gisborne bowls fraternity versus the elements.

Gisborne Bowling Club’s most prestigious event, the Burton Cup, was held thanks to an amazing effort that enabled the tournament to go ahead after a postponement on Saturday due to the weather (again).

And for the first time, a husband, wife and their son were in the winning team of the Burton Cup.

Geoff and Karen Pinn and son Liam Pinn joined Paddy Stewart in the winning combination on the second day, Monday. Karen Pinn replaced Glenys Whiteman, who played on the first day but had another commitment on Monday, which was not originally set down for play.

Liam Pinn, at 12, is the youngest Burton Cup winner. The previous youngest was Paige Richter, at 15, in 2019.

All hands were on deck to enable a late start on Sunday.

Games were reduced by half an hour — a popular move — and players remained upbeat during an hour-long break during which a newly acquired sponge roller was used to remove water from the greens.

First prize and the Burton Cup went to Stewart, Geoff Pinn, Whiteman and Liam Pinn. Whiteman was replaced by Karen Pinn on the second day.

They won all 10 of their games with a total of 60 points.

Second were Tim Sherriff, Ginny Sherriff, Paul Everett and Peter Mitchell. Hona Huriwai replaced an injured Tim Sherriff for the last three games. This team had one loss and two draws for 49 points.

Third were Andy Tamanui, Dell Tamanui, Mark Walker and Ben Elkington on 43.5 points.

Fourth were July Hoepo-Williams, Willy Murray, Lucy Shanks and Peter Clay on

36 points.

Fifth were Boon McIlroy, Jeff Davis, Joy Davis and Lesley Seymour on 34 points.

Plenty of laughter and outstanding bowls were features of the event.

Those who took part enjoyed the experience of a well-run tournament, thanks to Peter Ferris and club president Chris Bunyan.

Many compliments were directed towards the controllers, greenkeepers and kitchen and bar staff, as well as the workers who willingly gave of their Easter break to help.

The Gisborne club is fortunate to have such a dedicated band of workers and outstanding sponsors in McDonald’s, Eastland Group and Gear Meat.