Hanika the record breaker
Nuriootpa’s Hanika Booth broke a longstanding record when she claimed her first-ever club singles championship recently.
The talented 17-year-old broke Adam Forbes’ 19-year-old record to become the youngest-ever club singles championship winner at Nuriootpa, defeating reigning champion Carmen Isbel in the final.
Hanika, who was a member of the South Australian under-18 girls’ team that took part in last year’s national championships, said it was a special moment when she realised she had won.
“It feels amazing, especially because it was my very first singles championship,” she said.
“It was mind-blowing and incredible the support I have had and I hope to win many more.”
Hanika said it was “crazy” to win the event in her first-ever attempt.
“It was the first time I had entered my club singles and to win it was crazy,” she said.
“I entered it this year because I have graduated high school, so it makes it easier for me to plan what day and time I could play against the ladies.
“Also, I felt ready enough to play club singles and other people wanted me to play it because they thought I was ready as well.”
The promising youngster acknowledged how special it was to set a new club record.
“Adam Forbes won it when he was 18 or 19 back then and I broke the record, which is pretty cool,” she said.
“Getting to be the youngest ever club singles champion at our club is amazing.”
A family connection was what brought Hanika into the sport of bowls.
“My dad got me into playing night bowls and my little brother and sister also got into it and they play pennant bowls now,” she said.
“My dad was impressed with how well I bowled and here we are.”
Hanika explained what it is she loves about playing bowls.
“I enjoy it so much is because of the lovely people you meet, everyone there is like family to me,” she said.
“It also involves a lot of skill and the possibilities of where bowls could take me are endless.
“A massive goal for me is to play for Australia one day.”
Hanika encouraged other young people to get involved with the sport she loves.
“It is not just an old person’s game, it is for anyone and everyone of any age or ability,” she said.
“It is heaps of fun and there are so many great things that come with it.”
Hanika now shifts her sights to the association and regional singles titles as she looks to add to her trophy cabinet.
