Former Blackjack Lisa White and Manawatu representative Dean Gilshnan have combined to take out the 2023 Summerset National Mixed Pairs, defeating the powerhouse pairing of reigning national singles champions Sheldon Bagrie-Howley and Selina Goddard in a calm and composed final.

Held at the Alexandra Bowling Club, the Finals’ action saw eight formidable line-ups take to the greens one final time, concluding an action-packed eight days in the Central Otago region.

In hot and windy conditions, the final had it all – with all four players trading equal shots throughout. Though it was the first-time pairing of White and Gilshnan that took early command, racing out to a 10-2 lead after eight ends, and holding on to win the silverware, 15-9.

Bagrie-Howley and Goddard, who had previously been unbeaten, were chasing their second national title in as many months, following their joint success in Auckland earlier this year. However, not to be outdone, White and Gilshnan proved too consistent, scoring nine of the possible 14 ends and concluding their tournament in national glory.

Earlier in proceedings, White and Gilshnan put a stop to the gallant title run of junior composite Skye Renes and Shaun Goldsbury, who (with just seven years playing experience between them) had impressed onlookers with their careful  consideration, excellent communication and bowls ability well beyond their years. The other semi-final saw Bagrie-Howley and Goddard prove too strong for the Canterbury/Bay of Plenty composite Kerry Becks and Sue Hodges, wrapping up their fixture, 17-11.

Beaten quarter-finalists include the formidable pairing of Kelvin Scott and Serena Matthews, former national singles champions Shaun Scott and Deb White, Pt Chevalier duo Jenny Stockford and Nick Thompson and local hopes Patrick Houlahan and Charlene Puaaka Beckett.

The win marks a first national title for both Gilshnan and White, and brings the curtain down on what has been a memorable week – hosted across 13 clubs throughout the region.

-Sam Morton

Result at a Glance
2023 Summerset National Mixed Pairs, Central Otago

Final
Dean Gilshnan (Takaro), Lisa White (Naenae) def Sheldon Bagrie-Howley (Gore), Selina Goddard (Takapuna): 15-9