Suffolk bowls star Katherine Rednall says it’s a “dream come true” to be selected in England’s lawn bowls squad for next year’s Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in Australia.
The 21-year-old two-times World Indoor Bowls champion follows in the footsteps of her father John, who narrowly missed out on a bronze medal in the Men’s Fours at the 2004 Commonwealth Games in Canada.
“Being selected for the Commonwealth Games is dream come true,” said Katherine, from Stowmarket.
“Ever since I started playing bowls at the age of six, I have had the ambition to play for England and one day to represent my country at the Commonwealth Games or World Championships.
“Having a father who has played at this level certainly helps. We often talk about technique and shot selection a lot and also about encouraging our rink-mates and the prestige of representing England.
“I understand that no amount of talking about it will completely prepare me for the Commonwealth Games though and I think you have to wait until you experience it to really know what it’s really like!
“Fast running surfaces are my strength however you certainly can’t compare them to indoor greens due to the additional outdoor weather elements and surface texture.
“Australia is the home of bowls, so I couldn’t think of a better place to make my Commonwealth Games debut.”
Father John said: “I am obviously delighted for Katherine as any proud parent would be.
“She is a remarkable talent and a better all-rounder than I’ve ever been, being able to lead like a specialist and play every shot in the book.
“She also has massive ability to deal with pressure and expectation. I know Katherine played extremely well in the squad preparations in Australia where she adapted brilliantly to the Southern Hemisphere conditions.
“She will represent England to the best of her ability and I appreciated the selectors for having faith in her.”
He added: “I would say that my inclusion for the Commonwealth Games in Canada was one of the greatest honours of my outdoor career to date.
“I remember feeling nervous but excited. We played 10 full length games and only missed out on a medal in the 10th match.”
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