It was a banner week for Belleville’s Kerr family at the 2025 Bowls Canada U18 Championship in Alberta.
Siblings Isaac, 15 and Elise, 12 delivered outstanding performances on the national stage in the lawn bowling event held from August 11 to 17.
Isaac Kerr captured Gold in the U18 Men’s Singles division — a milestone achievement — and brought the prestigious title back home to Belleville.
His performance not only showcased his individual talent but also highlighted the strength of Ontario’s youth lawn bowlers after a gruelling five-day tournament at the Highlands Commonwealth Lawn Bowling Club in Edmonton.
Facing a competitive field of eight top players from Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario, Isaac battled through ten, two-game matches. He showcased remarkable skill and focus, especially under the challenging weather conditions, to secure his first national bowls championship medal.
Meanwhile, in her first-ever national appearance, Elise Kerr proved she’s a rising star in Canadian lawn bowls. In the U18 Women’s Singles, Elise competed against seven opponents from Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Ontario, narrowly missing a podium finish by just 0.5 points. But Elise didn’t let that setback slow her down. Teaming up with a partner from British Columbia in the Pairs Championship, she demonstrated resilience, determination, and impressive tactical play, earning not only the respect of her competitors but also a Silver medal in the event.
Together, these siblings not only brought home two national medals but also highlighted the strength and depth of Ontario’s youth lawn bowling talent. Their performances signal a bright future for the sport in Belleville and beyond.
(NICOLE KLEINSTEUBER)
