“Grab the moment and take it all in.” That’s the advice to competitors heading to Hong Kong, China, to take part in the World Bowls Junior Indoor Championship which starts on Monday, December 2nd, from first ever winner Scotland’s Darren Burnett.
The World Bowls and International Indoor Bowls Council sanctioned event is celebrating its 25th edition.
A total of 42 players from 21 countries and regions are taking part in the men’s and ladies’ singles and mixed pairs competitions at Hong Kong Football Club.
World Bowls’ media officer Ceris Hewlings spoke to Darren about his memories of being the first-ever champion and going on to be a record-breaking four-times winner of the men’s singles.
WB: How old were you when you first played in the WIBC Under 25s?
DB: I attended my first World Under 25 Championships in 1998 when I was 21 years old. It was the first time it had been held and the first year was a male only event. The second year it returned to Llanelli where men and ladies competed for the first time.
WB: What are your memories of the first event in Llanelli?
DB: I remember heading to my first World Under 25 Championships in Llanelli with excitement but some nerves as it was big step back in those days. It was great meeting players from all over the world and while it was competitive on the green, lots of friendships were being formed off it. I feel lucky to have grown into the sport just as these new Under 25 events were starting.
WB: You went on to win the coveted title four years in a row? How does that feel? Is there anything particular from any of the events that sticks out for you?
DB: I was delighted to win one of these world Under 25 titles but to successfully defend my title over the four years I was able to compete before I was age barred is one of my best achievements. Lots of talented bowlers have come through since my four wins but the record still remains. It will take some performance to match or beat it but I’m sure someone will have it in their sights one day.
WB: And how did playing in the Under 25 championships set you up for a successful career that was to follow?
DB: I think winning this type of event just enhances your confidence that you can compete at the very top level. Being able to compete against the best in the world at any sport can only improve your performance.
WB: What did you learn from those four years?
DB: I think I learned that I had the drive and determination to try and reach the very top in our sport. Winning these events especially over a four-year period requires composure and consistency and I think back in my 20s it was that consistency that was the pinnacle of my game.
WB: Can you believe that first world title was 25 years ago?
DB: Until you start to think about it you don’t appreciate it could possibly be that long ago. I remember so many of my matches and all of my finals as if they were just a few years
ago. Obviously winning the events was a real bonus but getting to know other bowlers from around the world many of whom I’m still in contact with to this day is just as important.
WB: What’s your advice for a player heading to Hong Kong, China, for this year’s event?
DB: I would say grab the moment and take it all in. These things pass so quickly when you are involved in them. I think in these types of events there is always one or two games that will test you. If you can find a way to battle hard and get through, then that’s when your own confidence will increase. Enjoy the experience off the green as I think that always helps your mindset when you are in the zone of competition.
The 2024 World Bowls Indoor Championship event takes place between December 2-8.
For more information regarding event, see www.worldbowls.com
Caption: Bowls International coverage of the first ever event.
For more information regarding event, contact: Neil Dalrymple, CEO, World Bowls, [email protected]
Author: Ceris Hewlings, World Bowls media officer
