HAMPSHIRE FINISH RUNNERS UP

Yesterday, at the Aviva National Championships at a showery Leamington Spa, Oakley's Mary Varndell and Sue Dixon were part of the Hampshire Over 60s mixed team that finished runners up in the Inter County competition that is played over 6 rinks. Janie Vickers and Ric Newson were travelling reserves.

The morning semi final was so close with neither Hampshire or Worcestershire ever establishing a strong lead but in a nerve wracking, last bowl finish, Hampshire went through by just one shot 115-114.

The afternoon final against Northamptonshire was equally tight with the lead regularly changing hands but as the match reached its conclusion Northamptonshire established a small lead and with the last end being played, Hampshire needed a score of 5 to take the match to an extra end. It was not to be and the County lost 105-111.

It was disappointing to lose but nonetheless a fine achievement for Hampshire to fight their way through the qualifying rounds and the semi to finish runners up in this inaugural mixed competition.