Merz now a dual Masters Singles champion
Key Choice Financial Solutions Ladies Masters Singles 2019/20
This event was held again at Mosman Park BC from February 21st to 23rd. A full field of 64 players fronted up over 2 days to complete the knockout rounds in warm and humid conditions although certainly somewhat of a relief as compared to the previous few days.
With all participants having previously won a club singles event the standard of the competition remains high and it was pleasing to see representation from over 26 clubs – country and metro and some new entrants to the competition as compared to previous years.
Laura Merz (Manning) played on Day 1 after winning the State 100up singles the previous day in very hot humid conditions and progressed with wins over quality opposition in relatively tight games.
Bev Duff (Mundaring) had two very close wins in the first two rounds and managed the third win to progress to Sunday – all wins against Over 60’s and current state players.
Irene Leahy from Boulder travelled far to compete staying down after playing in the State 100up competition. Again, no easy draw but progressed to Day 2 after a battle with Noelene Abe – a fellow State 4’s team mate.
The final quarter finalists from Day 1 – Anne Crabb (Manning) returning to this competition after some years had three very close games and was fortunate to survive a scare against Elileen Hannam from Forrestfield.
Day 2 was disadvantaged slightly by some early rain and the ongoing humidity slowed the greens somewhat. All 4 winners are well known to have progressed deep into this competition previously and/or have achieved excellent results in State events this year. Pam Chalmers score lines indicated that she was definitely in form with solid wins along the way.
Kerry Andresen had a tough draw against her Mossie park team mates – Bev Baker and Trish Cunningham and then a Manning premier player.
Hailey Packer also had to contend with a fellow Manning Skipper Helen Morss; and two Osborne Park players – all quality games.
Roma Dunn from Dudley Park needs no introduction and as a previous past winner is well known to the tournament. Always a reluctant participant, and after a late night due to the North Vs South fundraiser Roma never disappoints and competes in every game beating the current State selector Helens Stevens to get down to Day 2 in a tight one.
The conditions on Sunday for the quarter finals were good early but the steamy conditions were made more difficult with the breeze as we progressed throughout the day. The quarter finals didn’t have the closest contests with Laura, Hailey, Irene and Pam getting into the semis.
Laura battled hard to finally get over the top of Irene; with Hailey beating Pam in a tough game not necessarily reflected by the score line.
The fight to win the semi final for Laura stirred her into action. The bowls were brilliant and the pressure applied by having good close bowls made it hard for Hailey to get involved in the game. When Hailey did, Laura played confidently to convert and when Hailey did the same the result was not always favourable. A convincing win in the end, played in great spirits. A second time win for Laura – a massive achievement after a long week of bowls in trying conditions.
Thanks to Laura from THE FOOT STUDIO (Mt Claremont) for their support and doing the presentations and to KEY CHOICE FINANCIAL SOULTIONS (Subiaco) for their ongoing and generous sponsorship.
