Julie Simpson is the winner of the 2024/25 Gippsland Bowls Region (GBR) ladies state singles qualifier, defeating young gun Lacey Kiss in the finale, 25-10, at Bairnsdale Bowls Club last Sunday.
Kiss, the youngest ever singles finalist at just 11 years of age, got off to flying start leading 3-0, before Simpson found her range, playing some extraordinary bowls as she drew shot after shot, her vast experience too much for the youngster to handle.
The event was played in front of a large and encouraging crowd, who rode every bump with the players, applauding great shots and exceptional drawing.
Kiss won a lot of fans for the way she played and her attitude, Simpson praising her efforts at the post-match presentation.
“Lacey is a budding champion who could go all the way at national level because of her ability and temperament,” Simpson said.
Simpson will represent the region in Bendigo during April, taking on Australia’s best.
The quarter, semi and grand finals of the prestigious mixed pairs will culminate at Lakes Entrance this Sunday.