Catch PNB multi-champion, Glenda Matthews, in action at the BSA Women’s Open from May 2 – 10.
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Excitement is building across the Port Natal Bowls district as PNB prepares to host the prestigious Bowls SA Women’s Open from May 2 to 10. Widely regarded as the biggest event on the local women’s bowling calendar, the national tournament has attracted close to 400 competitors from across South Africa, all vying for honours in a week-long showcase of precision, strategy and sportsmanship.
Preparations are in full swing at eleven host venues across Durban, each putting the finishing touches to greens and facilities to ensure a memorable experience for bowlers and spectators alike.
Tournament headquarters at Parkhill Bowling Club will be the heartbeat of the competition, hosting the opening ceremony, daily games across all disciplines and the closing prize-giving. With games scheduled throughout the nine days, the club is set to be a hive of activity.
Sectional play will take place from May 2 to 6, featuring Open Pairs (May 2–3 ), Open and Veteran Singles (May 4) and Fours (May 5–6 ).
The pressure intensifies from May 7 to 10 as the knockout rounds unfold, culminating in the finals. Steering committee convenor Steve Kelf and his team are ensuring that every detail is in place as the countdown continues.
Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Colleen Piketh, will be chasing victory at the BSA Women’s Open.
Image: Supplied
The tournament will showcase some of the country’s most accomplished bowlers. Among them is Colleen Piketh, whose illustrious career includes a Commonwealth Games gold medal in pairs. Piketh will compete in singles at Westville Bowling Club, pairs at Hillary Bowling Club and fours at Parkhill.
Also in the spotlight is Sue Tarr, the reigning Bowls SA Open Masters Champion. Tarr will contest pairs at Mount Edgecombe Country Club, singles at Parkhill and fours at Hillcrest Bowling Club.
Defending champions will be eager to retain their titles. The 2025 Open Pairs winners, Anneke Scheepers and Megan Ferreira from Goodwood Bowling Club in the Western Province, begin their campaign at Durban Bowling Club, while the reigning fours champions; Tracey Meyeridricks, Taz Bright, Charlotte Roussouw and Colleen Marshall from Henley-on-Klip Bowling Club will open at Hillcrest as they pursue back-to-back success.
Port Natal’s challenge is formidable, with 41 fours teams entered. Among the standout combinations is Glenda Matthews, a multiple national title holder, who teams up with Cheryl Mostert, Jill Hackland (both Umhlali CC) and Stella Park club mate, Natalie Botha. Their sectional games will take place at Umhlali Country Club.
Another inspiring return is that of Susan Nel, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist and current national assistant coach and national selector. Back from a serious foot injury, Nel will compete with her Amanzimtoti teammates Nicky Stirzaker, Hilary Lindsay and Lesley Levy at Hillary, adding depth and experience to the local contingent.
The build-up to the national event has already intensified competition, with the Port Natal Women’s Open and Veteran Singles Championships serving as ideal preparation. Sectional play concluded last weekend, with the final rounds set for Berea Bowling Club this Sunday.
With top talent, strong local representation and meticulous planning, PNB is poised to deliver a memorable Bowls SA Women’s Open, celebrating the very best of the sport.