by
Rob Jones
14 year old Iestyn Williams from Penygraig overcame talented opposition in order to become the Wales under 18’s bowls champion. The singles event was held in Merthyr and local support travelled to back their boy. Iestyn beat his club mate Luke Isles in the semi final by a convincing score of 21 shots to 7. There was no hanging around as it was straight on to the final in the afternoon where the Rhondda teenager faced Welsh international and tournament favourite Ryan Davies of Islwyn. Ryan had defeated Jack Breen of Gilfach Goch 21 to 20 as he marched on to the ultimate stage.
In the final the lead changed on every end, but Ryan went into a 7 to 6 lead. Iestyn then went up another gear playing some lovely drawing bowls to take a runaway 18 to 9 advantage/ At this stage Iestyn required three shots for victory. However, Ryan rallied and pulled back to 20 to 16. The pressure was on and Iestyn showed great temperament via a great draw shot to clinch victory and become national number one.
Iestyn attends Ysgol Gyffun Cymmer and he is the youngest person to win this bowls title. Young Williams plays for Penygraig Bowls Club in the summer and this blossoming oulet welcomes anyone who wants to play bowls. The green in Penygraig Park is open mid April and all ages are welcome with free Sunday morning coaching for juniors aged 5 to 18 years.
