State flag one for the history books at Lightning Ridge

Winners are grinners! The successful Lightning Ridge Bowling Club pennants team included Back: Heidi Monch, Phil Morris, Shannon Tighe, Sam Crook, Adam Webb, Jamie Willmott, Trent Jacobson, Sam Pryor, Phil Morris, David Webb; Front: Stacy Morris, Jay Morris, Darren Richards. Photo: LR District Bowling Club

Decades of bowls history and talent came together for Lightning Ridge when the club completed an undefeated three days against some of NSW’s strongest sides to bring home the State Open Pennant Grade Three flag.

Lightning Ridge bowls manager Trent Jacobson said the significance of the state title went well beyond the final scoreboard, with long-serving players, several generations and strong family connections all part of the championship side.

Representing the North West Region, Lightning Ridge was one of 16 regional champions from across NSW to reach the three-day state finals in Sydney, played at Northmead and Dundas bowling clubs.

The Ridge went through the championships undefeated, ultimately claiming the title with a convincing 25-shot grand final victory over Newcastle powerhouse Charlestown.

“We won quite convincingly in every game,” Trent said.

It was a dominant performance at the end of a campaign that began much closer to home. There are about 45 bowling clubs across the North West Region, with clubs nominating teams in various pennant grades.

Lightning Ridge played six rounds fielding Grade Three teams before earning the right to represent the region at the state championships. […]

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