Cowichan Valley’s sports scene has recently thrived with remarkable achievements and exciting events across various disciplines. Whether it’s bowling, rugby, hockey, or rowing, the community is abuzz with talent and dedication. Here’s an overview of the latest news focused on the Cowichan sports community.
Bowling Achievements in Cowichan
The Cowichan area has shone brightly in the bowling spotlight, particularly with Team B.C.’s successful stint at the tenpin National Championships in Edmonton from May 5-7. A standout performance came from Logan Melin, a junior bowler representing Duncan Lanes. He secured a bronze medal after finishing third in the round-robin format with six wins, ultimately advancing to the stepladder finals. This victory is a testament to Melin’s hard work and determination, showcasing not just individual skill but also a commitment to teamwork.
Melin’s success did not go unnoticed, as he also collaborated with fellow bantam and senior bowlers from Richmond, winning gold in the combo teams event. On the girls’ front, Penelope Hawkes also competed valiantly, winning four of her twelve matches and finishing sixth overall. Her efforts contributed to the Team B.C. combo team’s success, which included junior and senior athletes from Richmond and Kelowna. Coach Bob Linde praised the girls’ resilience, despite a tough loss in a three-way roll-off for a medal.
Further highlighting Cowichan’s bowling prowess, Nathan Wymore achieved remarkable success, claiming the Canadian Open Men’s Singles Championship title at the national five-pin bowling championship held in Regina from May 20-24. Wymore’s impressive journey back to bowling is inspiring; after a 15-year hiatus due to his home alley’s closure, he proved that dedication and passion can lead to success. Finishing ahead of competitors from Alberta and Manitoba, Wymore’s triumph adds another feather to Cowichan’s bowling cap.
Rugby Stars Preparing for the World Cup
The Cowichan rugby community is making waves with several local athletes named to the Island Blues for the 2025 BC Rugby Senior Women’s Blue vs Gold games. Among them are standout players Bella Anderton-Teasdale, Skye Koyote, and Carissa Norsten. These games serve as a crucial step for aspiring athletes, as they train and compete to showcase their skills in preparation for the Women’s Rugby World Cup set to take place in England later this year.
Rugby Canada’s Senior Women’s XVs national team head coach, Kevin Rouet, emphasized the importance of this series. It not only provides a platform for female athletes to compete at a high level but also serves as a pathway to the Canadian National Senior Women’s program and the Canada Select team. The first game occurred on May 24 in Delta, with two more matches scheduled for May 31 at UVic and June 7 back in Delta.
Cowichan Capitals New Signings
In the hockey arena, the Cowichan Capitals are gearing up for the upcoming season with two exciting signings. They have brought aboard Noah Lawless, a promising 2007 forward from the Fraser Valley Thunderbirds U18 team, who demonstrated his scoring ability with 21 goals and 20 assists this past season. Additionally, the Capitals have secured the services of 2006 forward Junsu Kwak from the Springfield Jr. Blues of the NAHL, who also showed impressive performance stats with eight goals and 24 assists.
These additions strengthen the Capitals’ roster, promising a competitive and thrilling season ahead for hockey fans in Cowichan.
Rowing Day and Celebrations
In an effort to promote the sport and encourage community participation, rowing clubs across the country are participating in National Come Try Rowing Day. This event offers free introductory rowing sessions for individuals new to the sport. The Maple Bay Rowing Club is hosting its session on June 7, providing locals with the chance to experience rowing on the water in a safe environment. Such initiatives foster a love for the sport in a welcoming setting.
Furthermore, this year marks a significant milestone for the Maple Bay Rowing Club as they celebrate their 50th anniversary. The club will host a celebratory barbecue on June 21 at their headquarters, inviting the community to join in the festivities. This event is a perfect opportunity for newcomers and seasoned rowers alike to learn about the club’s history, see its updated facilities, and rekindle their passion for rowing.
Conclusion
The Cowichan Valley sports community is vibrant and dynamic, filled with athletes making their mark across various sports. With achievements in bowling, exciting rugby preparations for the World Cup, new developments in hockey, and initiatives that promote rowing, there is much to celebrate. The spirit of competition and camaraderie unites the community, setting a positive tone for future endeavors. Whether you’re a participant or a fan, there’s no better time to get involved and support these dedicated athletes. As these sports events continue to unfold, the Cowichan Valley stands poised to keep making headlines with its remarkable talent.
