The Lautoka men’s and Tamavua women’s teams were crowned winners of the Rooster Chicken Hutson Cup hockey tournament.
After three days of round robin games for the men, Lautoka and Tamavua were locked at nine points after six rounds as they faced each other in the last round with the West-based side to claim a 13-12 win.
Lautoka, who had the services of Dewar, Niklesh, Amitesh and Zainal won five games and drew one, three of which were won by only one point.
Tamavua, with the experience bowler Semesa Naiseruvati had Olaf Allen, Waisea Turaga and Joape Ravula.
There were close games which reflected how competitive the event was.
Sheraton, the defending champions, started the tournament off well by winning both games on day one but then lost two very close matches by one point to Tamavua and Suva which resulted in they losing their grip on this event.
Tamavua took the runner-up prize after edging out Nadi on a count back.
In the women’s division, Tamavua took top honours after winning three of its four matches and edged out the defending champions, Sheraton.
Sheraton, runners-up after a count back from Suva and Rewa.
Despite the showers on day one, the event was well attended with all Fiji’s top bowlers including those departing for an Oceania event today in New Zealand.
Given this event was first played in 1926, it would make this the 98th year this event has been in existence and would be one of bowls Fiji’s oldest sporting events.
Organisers, Sheraton Bowling Club, are grateful to Rooster Chicken for stepping forward to support this minor sport.
“Rooster Chicken, a minor player in the chicken industry, is now a major player with approximately 47 per cent market share and growing.
