Pairs title makes drive worthwhile

Summerland Pairs winners Shaun Baker, left, and David Wilcox after cruising to victory in the final against the Ballina father-and-son combination of Craig and Aaron Teys.

Doug Eaton

ST KILDA bowler David Wilcox might have been the luckiest man in Ballina yesterday afternoon.

With less than 48 hours notice and a 20-hour drive from Melbourne, he emerged victorious in the final of the Summerland Pairs with his partner, Australian representative Shaun Baker.

Wilcox replaced Redland Bay bowler Joe Mills, who had been meant to pair with Baker but withdrew due to illness.

Baker and Wilcox defeated the Ballina father-and-son combination of Craig and Aaron Teys 22-8 in the final.

"It was a 20-hour drive and I got here about 20 minutes before my first game yesterday," Wilcox said.

"I only managed about 30 minutes sleep before that too.

"I've been a mate of Shaun's for about 10 years now and I needed a holiday, so it's worked out well."

It was always going to be difficult for the Teys duo to match it with Baker, who represented Australia for the first time in August.

However, Wilcox emerged as the danger man as they jumped toa 13-6 lead midway through the final.

"Dave played exceptionally well and really carried me along the way," Baker said.

"I pulled out a couple of decent shots when I had to, but Dave did all the damage."

Wind played havoc again on the final day of competition.

After a slow start in their quarter-final, Craig and Aaron Teys recovered from 10-2 down to win 17-16 in a thriller against Phil Jordan (Musgrave Hill) and Ken Evans (Ipswich).

However, they appeared to have run out of puff by the time they reached the final.

"They were too consistent and everything we did, they did better," Aaron Teys said.

"It was great to play with Dad again - I haven't seen him for a year and a half.

"Making it this far and getting a bit of money is only a bonus."

When asked what he planned to do with his share of the $3200 winners money, Wilcox said he had plenty of options.

"I used to play on the Gold Coast, so I'm sure there will be a few drinks on up there this weekend," he said.

"I'd love to come back for the singles next week if there are any spots left.

"I'll definitely keep the car at home and catch a flight if I do this time."

The Summerland Singles will begin next Friday.