East Lothian Courier | Sport | Colin claims Champion of Champions title again

Thursday, 20th November, 2008

Published: Thursday, 4th September, 2008 09:25

Colin claims Champion of Champions title again

Colin Bonner was the last man standing in the ELBA Champion of Champions and the chorus of approval from the crowded banking at North Berwick last Saturday afternoon was music to the ears of the 26-year old Haddington champion.

Bonner’s 21-7 win in 16 magical ends over Macmerry champion Brian ‘Sconie’ Young saw his named etched on the coveted trophy for a remarkable third time in five years.

Both players traded singles on the opening two ends but Bonner then took complete control of proceedings with a whirlwind run of 2,2,1,2,1,3,3 and 2 to reach 17 without reply after 10 ends.

Young gained some respite with a jack smothering single, then showed signs of a possible fight back as he zipped to 7. But Bonner had the pace of the green in his fingers and his accuracy of weight and line saw him close the game out with a 2, 2 finish.

“I beat a good player today and won well so I feel good about it and am thrilled to bits that my name is on the trophy three times and hopefully there will be more opportunities in the future”, he said.

In the semi-finals, Bonner just pipped North Berwick champion Shaun Tuite in a 21-20 thriller while Young was made to fight all the way before edging out Elphinstone champion Robert French 21-17

East Lothian, meanwhile, have two players included in the under-25s’ squad representing Scotland in the Home Junior International series at Ayr Northfield this weekend: David Sked of West Barns and EL-Coop star Paul McLaren.

The omission of Port Seton ace Derek Oliver – not even given a trial this year – continues to mystify the county’s bowling fraternity.

The curtain falls on the ELBA competitive season next Saturday (September 13) as four clubs battle it out for the final silverware of the outdoor campaign, as Dunbar BC hosts the East Lothian Courier-sponsored ELBA Courier Cup finals day.

The end-of-season tournament will feature East Lothian League champions East Linton, Haddington, Cockburnspath and West Barns A.

ELBA match secretary Keith Fender has confirmed that the semi-final draw will take place shortly before the action gets underway at Dunbar at around 1pm, with the final expected to commence at 3.30pm. All teams are requested to report at the venue for 12.30pm.

l The annual East Linton Open Singles tournament takes place on Monday, September 15. Entries should be made by Sunday evening to Keith Fender on 01620 860654.

l Members of Tranent BC are requested to attend the club’s 82nd AGM on Monday evening at Polson Park Pavilion, from 7pm.

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