22nd Australian MAI Lawn Bowls Carnival

From 4th to 9th August, the tranquil setting of Mermaid Beach Bowls Club was anything but quiet, as it played host to the 22nd Australian MAI Lawn Bowls Carnival. Competitors from Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria joined in a celebration of sport, friendship, and tradition.

Each morning featured pairs competition, followed by triples in the afternoon, ensuring plenty of action on the green. The event culminated in all-Victorian gold medal matchup for both the pairs and triples competition.

Tight Finish in the Pairs Final

In the pairs competition, the Victorian pair of Jan Kamien and Shelley Beder claimed the gold medal after a tense battle against fellow Victorians Gary Lasky and Rob Steinhardt. The final was a gripping contest, with Kamien and Beder leading most of the game. However, the match came down to the very last end, where they held on to secure a narrow 13-12 victory by the tightest of margins.

Triples Showdown

The triples final was another showcase of Victorian talent, with the team of Gary Lasky, Shelley Beder, and Nancy Wicks facing off against David Kinston, Rod Rabinov, and Rob Steinhardt. The match was evenly balanced, and by the 14th end, the score was tied at 13-13. As the last end unfolded, Lasky, Beder, and Wicks appeared to be holding a winning position with three shots.

However, David Kinston delivered a pressure-filled final bowl, knocking out the opponents’ shot bowl and resting on the jack to clinch the game for his team. The match was a thrilling spectacle that entertained the spectators no end.

Victorian Teams Take Top Honours

Victoria’s dominance was evident throughout the carnival, as they won both the men’s and women’s shields. The women, in particular, continued their impressive streak by securing the shield for the third consecutive year.

The carnival concluded with the acknowledgment of the Warren Zine memorial, a moment that has become a tradition at these events. The candle, which is lit at the start of every carnival, was ceremonially extinguished, marking the end of a week filled with memorable competition and meaningful connections.

The 22nd Australian MAI Lawn Bowls Carnival at Mermaid Beach was a resounding success, with plenty of exciting matches. Victoria’s teams, in particular, have much to celebrate – Mazal Tov!