The Welsh Junior Merit was held on Sunday 28^th July at a very sunny Craig-y-Don Bowling Club, Llandudno. Our host County of Gwynedd represented by former President Dave Mathis, introduced everyone there, including members of the WCGBA along with the players and their families.

This year we had a field of 17 entrants. Most, if not all those taking part are Welsh Junior Squad players. This competition is always an enjoyable one where the youngsters get to meet – sometimes for the first time – and play each other in a friendly environment which helps to further their confidence in the game.

That said, the competition aspect is not lost on these young players, and they take it very seriously. Never happy unless both woods are millimetres from the jack if not firmly ‘glued’ to it, the standard of play was very high indeed.

Due to the number of entrants, first on the green was Abbie Bennett and Ifan Farrer. Both of them bowled some great woods with a confidence that belied their years. In the end, Ifan won 21-14. Lois Jones and Arwel Jones were next on and although it was quite a close game at times, Lois won 21-14. There were good wins also for Tomos Williams, Conor Edwards, Jamie Evans, Dylan Thomos, Jack Dougal, Rio Bailey and Jess Lacey.

In round two, Lois and Tomos had a close encounter, with Tomos winning out 21-18. Conor beat Jamie Evans 21-12 and a very determined Dylan won his game with Jack 21-13. Jess had a very comfortable win over Rio 21-8.

In the first semi final, two Wrexham lads, Tomos and Conor went head to head. Tomos got off to a confident start and, considering he only took up the sport some three months ago, he played some brilliant shots. He will be one to watch in the coming years. Not floored by being behind, Conor started to inch his way to 17 across. This became 19 across before Conor finally triumphed 21-19.

In the second semi final, Jess had no problems. She had a very confident 21-8 win over Dylan. As the girl who gets furthest in the Junior Merit, Jess, at this stage, ensured she qualified for the British Junior Ladies Final – a title she won last year.

The final was set to be an interesting one. Probably the most experienced player in the competition, Jess was aiming for the title that had eluded her for so long. Once again Conor got off to a slow start, and Jess was soon 11-3 up. Conor’s philosophy that it’s not over till it’s over, saw him, once again take hold and inch his way forward, reducing Jess’s lead all the time. A brilliant and uncharacteristic strike by Jess kept her firmly in the running. At 20-19 to Conor, was the title again going to pass Jess by? Not on your life. On the last end, Jess secured the two points she needed to become the Welsh Junior Champion 2024.

Jess and Conor both qualify for the British Junior Merit to be held in Sheffield next month, and with the British Junior ladies final for Jess, she has a busy time ahead.