Thurso bowler Chelsea Bain says it was 'unreal' to strike gold in national championships
Chelsea Bain struck gold as part of a strong contingent from Thurso Bowling Club who competed at the national championships in Ayr.
The 21-year-old, competing in the ladies' under-25 singles, was hoping to improve on the bronze medal she won at the last championship – and she did so in style.
Chelsea received a bye in her first round on the Sunday and by the Monday she couldn't wait to get on the green. The bowls couldn't have gone any better for Chelsea and she went on to lift the national championship U25 title and gold medal on the Wednesday afternoon, winning the final 21-13.
Throughout the rounds, drawing and heavy bowls helped her upgrade her bronze from 2019 to gold in 2022.
Chelsea said: “I've not had the biggest confidence this season so I was just taking it game by game. To get to the final in itself was a massive achievement.
“When I got to the final I was delighted that I'd just gone better than that bronze three years ago, but to win the gold is absolutely unreal.”
Chelsea was among 12 Thurso bowlers competing at Ayr. A men's over-55 rink consisted of Nigel Gower, Alan Swanson, Brian Tewnion and Douglas Morrison, with Alan and Douglas each making their first appearance in the national championships.
The Thurso ladies' over-55 rink consisted of past national champions Liz Rhodes and Joan Elder along with Lily Wilson and Kay Rosie, who were both making their debuts at national championship level.
The gents' triples were Henny Henderson, Alan Morrison and Ronnie Bain Snr, with Henny and Alan competing at the national championships for the first time.
The men's fours started well, winning their first game. In the next round they found themselves down but fought back, playing some great bowls in the latter stages and putting pressure on their opponents. However, they were narrowly defeated by a team that went on to claim a medal.
The ladies' fours found conditions difficult on green "D" in the blazing sunshine. The hot conditions caused a few of the bowlers during the tournament to require medical assistance.
The ladies were defeated in their opening game but thoroughly enjoyed playing at the championships.
The gents' triples found themselves chasing the game after the first few ends. They came back well before being defeated by two shots.
To play in the national championships is top of the list for many bowlers, so for Thurso to have such strong representation at Ayr reflected well on the club. The focus now is on winning club titles to have the opportunity to qualify for next year's district stages.