The East versus West Bowling Championship commenced on Saturday at the Fiji Bowling Club in Suva, creating an exciting atmosphere as athletes demonstrated their competitive spirit. This prestigious event stands out as one of the foremost tournaments that leads to national selection, featuring top bowlers from both regions.
Ramesh Chand, games vice-president, emphasized the intensity of the competition, noting that many of the elite players were representatives from Fiji’s West and trialists from the East. “Competition has been tough,” Chand remarked, expressing gratitude for the favorable weather. “The top bowlers are competing today, and with some new faces, the competition is really good.”
With national selectors present, the stakes were notably high, driving players to excel in their performances for a chance to secure a position on the national team for the upcoming Commonwealth Games. “This is one of our top tournaments, and those on trial are vying for a position in the Commonwealth Games, which is one of the most prestigious tournaments,” he explained. Chand expressed confidence in the athletes, stating, “Everybody is putting in their best; they have been preparing for the last three months, contributing to the closeness of results.”
On the first day of competition, the West team took an early lead against the East, finishing with a score of 5-2, setting the stage for a thrilling tournament ahead.
This championship not only underscores the competitive spirit of the sport but also reinforces community connections, providing players and fans with a shared experience enriched by sportsmanship. As both teams aim for excellence, the event highlights the dedication and resilience of Fiji’s bowlers, fostering optimism and excitement for the future of the sport.