Singles title for Mceldowney

Bowls Taranaki has another national champion.

Val McEldowney produced a stunning comeback to win the New Zealand women’s singles title on finals day at the Paritutu greens in New Plymouth yesterday.

‘‘It’s a big thrill,’’ said the New Plymouth club bowler between congratulatory hugs from family and friends.

‘‘I never dreamed of anything like this. I didn’t even qualify in Auckland last year . . . I didn’t even win a game.’’

McEldowney found herself 17-9 down against Birkenhead’s Reen Stratford in yesterday’s final with the prospects of a home-town victory looking decidedly slim. But the tide turned and McEldowney won the next six ends to win 21-17.

McEldowney, who took up bowls 30 years ago at the Okato club before moving to New Plymouth 81⁄ years ago, said it wasn’t the only time she had clawed her way back to win.

‘‘In my first game in postsection play I was 15-7 down to Clare [New Zealand squad member Clare McCaul from Silverstream] and won that. Then in the second round game, I was down by the same score as today, 17-9, to Margie Davis from Paritutu, and won that. So I wasn’t too worried, I just kept on fighting.’’

McEldowney, 60, said the support had been amazing.

‘‘Grayson’s [her husband] so supportive. I’ve had lots of family here. My sister [Barbara Gault] arrived from Wellington this morning and my brother [Wayne Hopson] was here. It’s been great.’’

McEldowney said she would enjoy the night, ‘‘but not too much’’.

‘‘There’s the fours tomorrow. I’m only learning to skip fours. That’s a different kettle of fish to singles.’’

The men’s singles final was won by Dunedin’s Shaun Scott from the North East Valley club. He beat Onehunga’s Danny Delany 21-10.

McEldowney and Scott will represent New Zealand at the world champion of champions singles bowls tournament Christchurch at the end of the year.

‘‘I’m more frightened about that,’’ said McEldowney.