History and structure of the Invitation Masters Singles Tournament

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The Pak'N'Save Invitation Masters Singles indoor bowls tournament has been held on the last Saturday in September since 1980. It is the premier singles event in the country outside the NZIB Nationals.
On 27th September 1980 the first Masters was held. Over the years the highly successful format has remained virtually unchanged and the success of the event is evident as every year many players are on the waiting list to particiate.
The founder of the Masters - Terry O'Connor - shared his idea over a drink with colleagues to assemble top bowlers from around the country for such an event and then set about putting things in motion and the Masters was born!
Top competitor Rod Fleming won that first Masters, defeating foundation committee member Peter Bowden in the final.
The organising committee originally comprised representatives from Auckland, North Shore and Manukau (now Roskill & Districts) Centres and generally this trend has continued over the years.
Well known bowler Helen Bennett is the longest surviving member of the committee - she has held the position of Secretary for 24 years.
As would be expected many illustrious players have secured the Masters crown over the last 26 years with several NZ Federation singles champions among past winners.
Apart from initial winner Rod Fleming, Colin Taylor (3 times!) Basil Rainsford, Robert Frelan, Grant l'Ami and Pat Hoult have had success in the event.
Two players have taken part in the conpetition since it's inception - Auckland's Ken Gash and Waikato's Murray Bryant. Bewteen 125 and 150 participants play in sections to find qualifiers and then do on to a unique two life system in post-section to find a champion.
It is expected that this popular singles tournament will continue into the future and we all look forward to the 50th Jubilee celebrations in 2029!