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RNZAF Bowls Interbase Tournament
By SGT Gary Martinsen
The first Royal New Zealand Air Force Bowls Interbase Tournament, since 2003, was hosted by Base Ohakea and played at the Bulls Bowling Club 13–15 March 2010.
The revival of this popular sport was due to the efforts of Warrant Officer Brian Looker, assisted by Sergeants Paul Millar and Tony Nicholson.
Unfortunately Woodbourne were unable to compete, and so a fourth (Composite) team was made up from Auckland and Ohakea personnel. They proved to be a very competitive team.
The standard of the games was exceptional, and the close games (of which there were many) were as exciting as any sport, at any level, for both competitors and spectators. RNZAF sport was definitely the winner on the day. Everyone involved in the tournament had great fun and several ‘facts’ emerged from the participants:
- Bowls is a very social and competitive sport. It’s open to all RNZAF personnel and can be played all year round. No previous experience is required to play and, with the right discipline and practice, anyone can excel.
- Bowls is sexy. The 2010 Interbase proved this.
Due to the enthusiasm of RNZAF personnel to play this popular sport, plans are already underway to organise an RNZAF Auckland versus Navy game, and several personnel intend to attend the annual Association Tournament over Easter each year at the Bulls Bowling Club. The RNZAF has had a long partnership with the Bulls Bowling Club, and it is great we can continue this relationship for the benefit of future RNZAF personnel and sportspersons.
RNZAF 2010 Tournament Team
- AC Julian Huizinga (Rinks Lead) Base Auckland
- AC Hamish Ward (Rinks 2) Ohakea
- Mr Al Heath (Rinks 3) Composite
- SGT Paul Millar (Pairs Lead) Ohakea
- SGT Dean Johnstone (Pairs Skip) Composite
- F/S Nick Wilson (Pairs Skip) Ohakea
- LAC Andy McGill (Singles) Base Auckland
Results
- McMillan Trophy (Winner, Interbase Bowls 2010): Base Auckland
- RNZAF Bowls Assn Cup (Winner, Rinks 4s Championship): Base Ohakea
- Clinton Cup (Winner, Singles Championship): LAC Andy McGill (Base Auckland)
- Peter Houltham Cup (Winner, Pairs Championship): Mr Rick Bragger and AC Julian Huizinga (Base Auckland)