Chapelton Bowling Club crowns youngest ever champion as teen takes crown

Chapelton Bowling Club has crowned its youngest-ever champion after teenager Emma Jamieson claimed the ladies’ title.

The 14-year-old has followed in the footsteps of father Neil and grandfather George in taking up the sport and she has taken to it like a duck to water, defeating far more experienced players to take home the trophy recently.

Emma’s preparation for matches involves regular practice with her family and participating in fun, informal games.

READ MORE: West of Scotland League chiefs blast back at Gartcairn statement

READ MORE: Motherwell dealt striker injury blow as star ruled out for the season

Her biggest supporters have been her father and uncle Craig, who have always encouraged her to play her best. Emma also enjoys playing carpet bowls with her brother Ross, who is her partner in competitions.

But she admits the success has been a surreal experience.

Emma said: “It feels good and didn’t feel real because I played with adults all the time, and I never expected to win. The moment I realised I had won was overwhelming.

“A lot of people now know me, and a lot of the club members have been telling other clubs.

“The support from the community has been heartwarming and I hope to see more young people get involved in lawn bowling.

“My family encouraged me to start going to the bowling, and I enjoy meeting new people and winning games.

“For anyone looking to play I’d say just try it, give it a go.

“Lawn bowling is not just for older people.”

Emma has big dreams for the future. She hopes to compete at the Northfield National Centre for Bowling with Bowls Scotland, where she can meet more people and gain new experiences.

While she is open to exploring professional opportunities in lawn bowling, she is also focused on gaining as much experience as possible and finding a coach to guide her.

Sandy Gibb, a long-time member of Chapelton Bowling Club, shared his admiration for a fellow club member, saying: “My highlight of the year has been watching the progress Emma has made.

“Her dedication and skill are second to none.

“The club is very lucky to have this role model, and I am looking forward to seeing how she progresses next season.”

Steven Fleming, the president of Chapelton Bowling Club, praised Emma’s achievements.

He said: “Emma is the star of the show.

“Both she and her twin brother Ross are enthusiastic bowlers and are often up at the club.

“Emma’s victory in the Ladies’ Championship, beating some very experienced players, is a fantastic achievement.”

Follow Lanarkshire Live Sport on X via @LanLiveSport, like us on Facebook or find us on Instagram for the latest sports news, pictures and video.