Victorians – No.1 with a bullet
It’s official. Australia’s No.1 bowlers are Victorians.
Barrie Lester (Mulgrave Country Club) and Carla Krizanic (Sunbury) have claimed the coveted top ranking at the end of the 2016-17 season, capping a golden year in which both players significantly added to their glittering resumes.
Lester won two State titles, silver at the world championships, and capped his year with men’s pairs success alongside long-time friend and fellow Vic Josh Thornton at the Australian Open.
During the season, Krizanic won two world championship gold medals in triples and fours, the national champion of champions women’s singles title, and a State mixed pairs championship with Nick McIntyre.
But her top ranking was predominantly achieved on the back of incredible consistency right throughout the season at all levels.
The Victorians will pick up $3,000 prize cheques at Bowls Australia’s upcoming Hall of Fame and Awards Night in October for topping the rankings.
Victorians featured strongly at the top of the male rankings, with Deer Park’s Garry Ball finishing third courtesy of an outstanding domestic run, while 2016 Vic Open men’s singles champion Matthew Flapper (Ocean Grove) was fifth ranked.
Krizanic was one of two Victorian-based bowlers in the women’s top five. Canadian international Kelly McKerihen (Caulfield Park Alma) was ranked fourth in Australia for the season.
2016-17 Men’s National Rankings
2016-17 Women’s National Rankings
