Marcus Trlin, Hutt Valley, claims his first National Open title in the singles, proving once again that he is dynamite in this discipline. It was only a few years ago that he won the NZ Henselite Singles in 2018.
Trlin had a terrific run throughout the day, defeating his fellow Mat Blacks Kylie Gould, Teri Blackbourn, and Daniel French in the semi final. Ultimately, he met good friend Caleb Hope in the final, who also put out some top seeds along the way, including Mat Blacks Denise Clarkson and Paul Wright, plus the 2019 Singles Champion Tim Veale. His semi final against 1-5 year player Matthew Burke, Tauranga, had the audience on the edge of their seats. Burke showed incredible determination and grit to force an extra end, but it was Hope who prevailed to create an all Hutt Valley final.
While Caleb has only recently returned to the indoor scene, he has plenty of national experience in outdoor bowls to draw from. He lead 1-0 after two ends, however, Marcus kicked into gear and never looked back. Upon winning, Marcus credited Caleb for his efforts and could not speak higher of him as a person.
Waikato's Annelies Baker won the Truth Cup for lady going the furthest; Kevin Crighton, another Hutt Valley bowler, won the Kath and SEN Smith Trophy for senior going the furthest; and Nathan Trowell, Poverty Bay, adds his name to the Cliff Thompson Trophy for junior going the furthest.