The highly anticipated Northern Cape Bowls (NCB) Mixed Pairs Championships took centre stage in Kimberley this weekend, with 16 of the province’s top qualifying combinations battling it out for district honours and a coveted place at the Bowls South Africa Mixed Pairs Championships later this year.

After a competitive opening day on Saturday, sectional play concluded with the strongest teams securing their places in Sunday’s knockout rounds. With provincial pride and national qualification on the line, spectators were treated to bowls of the highest standard throughout the weekend.

The semi-finals produced two standout performances as the experienced pairing of Andries van der Walt and Elmarie Bredenkamp booked their place in the championship decider alongside the formidable mother-and-son duo of Annelie and CP Mathewson.

The Mathewsons have built a reputation over recent seasons for their ability to absorb pressure in major finals before shifting through the gears at crucial moments and pulling away from their opponents. Time and again they have demonstrated why they are regarded as one of the most accomplished combinations in Northern Cape bowls.

Champions strike early and never look back

This year’s final, however, unfolded in a manner few could have predicted.

Rather than easing their way into the contest, the Mathewsons arrived on the green already firing on all cylinders. From the opening ends they applied relentless pressure, producing accurate draw bowling and clinical conversions whenever opportunities presented themselves.

Every challenge posed by Van der Walt and Bredenkamp was met with an immediate response as the Mathewsons displayed the class that has made them one of the most feared pairings in the country.

In a dominant performance, the Mathewsons ran away with the final to reclaim the NCB Mixed Pairs title they last won two years ago.

The victory now sees them turn their attention to the Bowls South Africa Mixed Pairs Championships in July, where they will once again chase national glory and attempt to add a second national mixed pairs title to their impressive list of achievements.

Outstanding performances throughout the field

Despite falling short in the final, Van der Walt and Bredenkamp can hold their heads high after an outstanding tournament. The pair produced some spectacular bowls throughout the weekend, navigating a difficult field of competitors and earning the admiration of spectators with their consistency, composure, and shot-making ability.

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In the play-off for third and fourth place, Freddie du Plessis and Helena Janse delivered a strong performance to secure the bronze medal and complete the podium.

As the curtain falls on another successful NCB championship, attention now shifts to the upcoming NCB Mini Districts, which will take place in Vryburg next week. Players from across the province will once again gather to showcase their talents.

With another memorable Mixed Pairs championship in the books, the road to national competition now beckons, and Northern Cape’s representatives will be eager to carry the province’s hopes onto the biggest stage in South African bowls.