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The five-day all abilities section for disabled bowlers was a highlight for the competition.<\/p>\n
Bangalow bowler Richard Rombouts won the All Abilities reserve singles, while Cudgen’s Fred McConnell took home the bronze medal.<\/p>\n
Rombouts also won the open pairs with Nelson Bay’s John Gibson with James Reynolds the open singles champion.<\/p>\n
“It was special to see how much it meant to them,” Connellan said.<\/p>\n
“I was blown away by the level they were able to compete at, too.<\/p>\n
Each of the 16 divisions in the main draw has a Northern Rivers representative after they came through regional qualification.<\/p>\n
It makes it a rare event to have so many local competitors playing in a state-run competition in their own zone.<\/p>\n
“It’s a great to showcase to the younger generation about the different demographics in the sport,” Connellan said.<\/p>\n
“We’re going to try and use it as a bit of a recruitment tool to draw in some kids if we can.<\/p>\n
Ballina has already secured hosting rights for 2027.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
BALLINA has enjoyed a major economic boost, with hundreds of competitors taking part in the Bowls NSW State Championships this week. It is just the second time the event has been held outside a metropolitan area and is expected to inject at least $2 million into the community. About 900 bowlers have visited the region […]<\/p>\n