Bowls: Spalding shows signs of being star of the future after Ayr final

Published on Monday 1 August 2011 11:55

A BRIGHT future in bowls is being predicted for Craigentinny's Josh Spalding, 16, after the teenager made a big impression in his debut season in the senior grade of the sport.

Last week saw the engineering apprentice compete in the Under-25 Junior Singles of the national championships at Ayr Northfield, having earned that right as the District 11 champion, and he performed brilliantly to reach the final where he was edged out 21-17 by Andrew Tattersall of Castlehill Colliery (Carluke).

"I didn't play well enough to win and am disappointed to lose but have no excuses and, over the piece, I have had a great learning experience," the youngster said.

Spalding beat Kenneth Carlin (Anniesland) 21-14, Martin Williamson (Irvine Park) 21-13, Mark Yuill (Inveresk) 21-6 and Steven Fleming (Buchan Park) 21-9 on his way to the final.

Spalding has benefited from coaching and advice from Eleanor Bannerman, the 2000 Edinburgh Open Champion, then latterly mentoring from Margaret Caldwell at Craigentinny. Last year saw the then 15-year old signal his star potential by capturing the prestigious Allan Ramsay Champion of Champions Trophy of the Edinburgh Junior (Under-18) Bowling League.