Troy McDowell delivers a bowl at Westville CC.

Image: Tammy Douglas

AT JUST 19, Troy McDowell is already making his mark on the Port Natal bowling scene. 

His 2026 season has been one of remarkable progress, producing a collection of podium finishes that reflects not only his growing ability but also the determination and competitive spirit of a young bowler finding his place among the district’s best.

His introduction to bowls was hardly part of a carefully mapped sporting career. It began with his grandmother and her friends. What started as an occasional, casual game soon became something much more compelling.

“I never expected it to become something I'd be so involved in,” McDowell admitted.

Like many newcomers, McDowell initially regarded bowls as a relaxed pastime, the familiar “old man’s marbles”. It did not take long, however, for him to discover the skill, concentration and strategy hidden beneath the sport’s unassuming appearance.

His first taste of competition came at his club’s novice singles, which he won. Encouraged by that success, he entered the Port Natal Novice Singles and claimed bronze against more experienced opposition. That tournament proved to be a turning point.

TROY McDowell receives his silver medal for the PNB Junior Masters from PNB President, Ken Fann.

Image: Louisa Human

“It was then that I realised what a competitive game bowls really is,” McDowell said. 

Since then, his progress has been impressive. The highlight of his 2026 campaign was undoubtedly gold in the PNB Men’s Fours, while silver in the PNB Junior Masters and bronze in the KZN Singles added to an outstanding season. Reaching the last eight of the KZN Men’s Fours further underlined his ability to compete at a high level.

But perhaps one of Troy’s most significant victories was not measured by a medal. Facing experienced campaigner and Protea bowler, Wayne Roberts, in the PNB Masters he knew he was stepping into one of his toughest games yet. Rather than being intimidated by the occasion, he trusted his ability, stayed calm and concentrated on the next bowl.

The result was a victory that reinforced an important lesson: pressure can be managed, mistakes left behind and confidence maintained when the challenge is greatest.

Troy enjoys playing third, relishing the responsibility of reading the head and attempting difficult shots. 

He describes his greatest strength as staying positive and backing himself, even when the scoreboard is against him. It is a quality that has clearly served him well.

His development has also been shaped by the welcoming environment at Umhlali CC, where members have offered encouragement, advice and support. He makes special mention of Dave Riley, Dougie Bashford, his family and the club’s “Big Five” for helping him along the way.

Representing Port Natal at the U35 Inter-Districts in Welkom was another milestone, giving him valuable experience and a taste of national competition.

Looking ahead, Troy hopes to continue improving, earn further district opportunities and ultimately represent South Africa. Playing alongside Jason Evans, or any bowler who has worn the Proteas colours, would be a dream.

He has a message for young people who might dismiss bowls as a sport for an older generation: “Give it a go! Don't judge the sport before trying it.”

With his competitive nature, determination and willingness to learn, McDowell is doing more than collecting medals. He is showing that the future of bowls is already changing shape, one young bowler at a time.

TROY McDowell (second left) celebrates Umhlali’s gold medal with Dougie Bashford, Les Lothian and Leon Lotter.

Image: Alec Nel