British Isles Championships 2024- Ladies Singles Preview
We have arrived at the week of the 2024 British Isles championships, which will see Scottish champions compete across 14 different disciplines to test their might against their fellow national championship winners. We have been speaking with all the players and teams prior to the event, to get some insight into their feelings ahead of such an occasion, as well as looking at their journey to Leamington Spa. We also sought some insight on the bowlers, by asking them to pick between one of TVs most divisive duos.
This morning, we are sharing our discussions that we had with our superb singles winners. Our ladies representative, and the reigning 2023 Scottish national champion is youngster Emma Mitchell, who plays her bowls out of Gilmerton BC, in Midlothian.
Similar to all of our other competitors, it was Emma’s family who first introduced her to the world of bowls over ten years ago, with her dad, and older brothers also competing at a high level. Emma recalled how she knew that when watching and supporting her family, it would not be long before she joined them on the green.
When asked about her route to victory at Northfield, Emma explained how it was her first time winning her district’s ladies singles qualifier, so she was incredibly pleased with just qualifying in the first place. She then detailed the purple patch of form that she found during the National finals, which allowed her to get over the line. To win a national title is a fantastic achievement at any point, though it has to be said that lifting the ladies singles title at just 19-years-old, is a remarkable feat.
Emma also expressed delight, and excitement regarding this week at Leamington Spa. Here’s what she had to say:
“I cannot wait for this experience; I’m really looking forward to representing my country”.
We also had the chance to ask Emma about her first year in the USA, as she completes her footballing scholarship, in Connecticut, during the academic year. Showing her versatility as a sportsperson, Emma conveyed her enjoyment so far, across the pond. She touched on the new environment, which she absolutely loves, as well as the challenges she faces while playing. When it comes to transferable skills that she has developed as a result of her scholarship, Emma highlighted patience, and adaptability as two of the most pivotal assets that she has worked on.
The Midlothian bowler was unable to pin her favourite bowler, citing that there are too many to choose from, while she also opted for Dec, over his co-part Ant.
Emma will be in action in the very first session of the first day (26th June, 09:30) where she will face Ireland’s Sarah Kelly in the semi-finals.