Souths Suburban’s Open Challenge

Thirty-two teams contested the annual Easter Open at Souths Suburban, Mackay on April 8-9. Eight rounds of 2-bowl triples were played, with only two teams winning all games.

Local legends Ray Kurtz and Peter Balderson teamed with Mitchell Mears from Broadbeach to take out the top prize of $4,500. Second place went to Mitch Styles, Jesse Turnbull & Justin Cribbin, with a 20 less margin than the winners.

With a draw in round 6, Joel Downey, Tyler Pettigrew and Jake Rynne finished in third place. A total prize pool of $15,000 was shared between seven placegetters and eight round winners.

Two heavy downpours on Good Friday dented the speed of the grass green, but a hot and humid day on Saturday had the pace much improved for Sunday’s play. The undercover carpet green was much friendlier for the two days.

Visitors came from many parts of Queensland, with the Elliott family from Taralga in Southern NSW playing while up visiting local family. Former Souths Suburban member, Ray McKay, now based in Melbourne also competed this year.

The carnival has been going for many years and the club is very appreciative of the many visiting players who attend each time.