Yesterday saw the final of the 2023 Bill Hatto Under 25's trophy between Hampshire and Sussex played in the glorious sunshine at Alton Social Bowls Club.
The club provided us with a good green, food and drink throughout the day and parasols to shade under from the hot sun.
The game was played by two very competitive teams with the youngest in the Sussex side only 10 years old and two young ladies.
There was very little in the scores throughout the match with Sussex making a late rally when it looked as if Hampshire were going to have a comfortable win. Sussex were rallied by a 5 on the last end on one of the rinks but just missed out on the win, with Hampshire taking the game 62-59.
Both teams had plenty of support from 'vocal' parents and supporters which helped to create an exciting atmosphere.
Thanks go to Hampshire's Umpiring co-ordinator who was used a number of times to adjudicate on close woods.
Both teams were a credit to their County as they sported their County colours in both shirts and shorts making each of them actually look like a team.
The future looks bright for bowls in both Hampshire and Sussex.
