- The annual lawn bowls competition continues to attract interest from across Southern Africa, while organisers expect local players to raise the standard despite fewer international entries this year
GAZETTE REPORTER
The Orapa Duiker Tournament continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Botswana’s notable lawn bowls competitions, attracting teams from across Southern Africa while helping to raise the profile of the sport.
According to Botswana Bowling Association Vice President Edwin Nyoka, the tournament’s growing regional appeal reflects the importance of neighbouring countries supporting one another in developing lawn bowls.
“It first defines the support neighbouring countries offer each other in the growth of the sport,” Nyoka said in an interview. “It also provides the exposure to gauge the level of competitiveness across the region.”
The tournament has previously attracted teams from Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe, giving players an opportunity to compete against regional opposition.
Competition Level
A total of 24 teams have registered for this year’s tournament.
Nyoka expects the competition to remain intense, although he noted that this year’s edition differs from previous tournaments because no international teams have entered.
“It will be high but not as high as before because, for some reason, we have not received any international entries like in the previous years,” he said.
“However, the local lads will raise the bar to battle for the prize money at hand.”
Growing Following
Beyond competition, Nyoka said the tournament has played an important role in building interest in lawn bowls among residents of Orapa.
He said attendance has steadily increased over the years, particularly during the holiday period when the tournament is staged.
“The tournament has attracted an increase in following and attendance over the years for the Orapa residents over these holidays,” Nyoka said. “We experience a good following and understanding of the game now.”
Open Contest
Nyoka said spectators can expect another unpredictable competition, noting that previous editions have shown there is no dominant team.
“Anything or anyone can win on the day as evidenced during the past years,” he said. “There has not been any consistent winners.”
The absence of repeat champions, he said, has helped maintain the tournament’s competitive nature, with every edition presenting a fresh opportunity for participating teams to challenge for honours.