Boyd Secures 10th National Title in Thrilling Championship Match

New Zealand bowler Boyd clinched her 10th national title on March 15, 2024, by winning the women’s singles at the national championships held in Christchurch. Competing in challenging windy conditions, Boyd faced a formidable opponent in Leanne Poulson from Takapuna, ultimately securing victory with a score of 21-16. This win not only marked her first national singles title but also capped off an impressive week in which she triumphed in the women’s pairs alongside Kirsten Edwards.

Historic Achievement for Boyd

At 34 years old, Boyd’s achievement of 10 national titles is remarkable. Her titles include one singles, three pairs, and six fours championships. Reflecting on her journey, Boyd expressed her satisfaction with finally breaking through in the singles category after previously losing two finals. “To find some form in the singles has been awesome. It’s been a great week and it’s an amazing way to get to title number 10,” she stated.

The final match against Poulson was intensely competitive, with both players tied at 7-7 after seven ends. Boyd then surged ahead by winning four consecutive ends to establish a 15-7 lead. However, Poulson fought back valiantly, winning six of the next seven ends and narrowing the gap to just one point at 17-16. In a critical moment, Boyd executed a precise drive under pressure, scoring three shots and ultimately sealing her victory in the next end.

“I found it quite nice out there to begin with but I lost my way a bit as the match went on with the wind making it tricky,” Boyd commented. “Thankfully I managed to hold on, play a couple of important bowls and get it over the line.” This victory places Boyd in an exclusive group alongside Millie Khan and Cis Winstanley, the only other New Zealand women to achieve 10 or more national titles.

Exciting Finals Across the Championships

Earlier in the day, Boyd faced a challenging semifinal against Katelyn Inch from Oxford. After falling behind 13-8, Boyd rallied to win six of the next seven ends, eventually finishing with a score of 21-14 to secure her place in the final.

The men’s pairs final was another nail-biter, featuring brothers Ethan and Hamish Kelleher from Halswell against Gary Lawson and Tony Grantham. The Kelleher brothers battled back after Lawson and Grantham took an early lead of 9-4. Tied 14-14 heading into the last end, Ethan executed a brilliant drive that allowed the brothers to clinch a thrilling victory.

In the open disability singles, Darron Wolland from Balclutha showcased his skill by defeating Jono Radka of Papanui with an impressive score of 21-2. Wolland maintained a strong lead throughout the match, demonstrating exceptional performance.

Additionally, at the same championships, Rohan Ware from Belfast captured the men’s singles title, marking his first national victory. He triumphed over Australian competitor Nathan Black with a score of 20-11, adding to his family’s legacy of national titles.

A total of 864 bowlers participated in the national championships, representing 21 clubs across Canterbury, showcasing the vibrant community and competitive spirit of the sport.