From social Sundays to silver medals: Caldwyn Lewis takes on national bowls stage

When a family friend invited Caldwyn Lewis to a fun day out at Mill Park Bowling Club in 2018, he had no idea he was stepping into his future. After a single afternoon of "having the time of his life", it only took a few months for Lewis to transition from a casual observer to a competitive athlete.

“A family friend had a team-building event at the club I currently play at," Lewis told Eyewitness News.

"He enjoyed it and invited us to join on weekends to socialise. We loved the opportunity it gave us to enjoy an activity that everyone can do."

For Lewis, the shift to competitive play was a natural progression.

"After a few months, I realised I was competent enough to compete. I am a sportsman and competitive by nature, so it was a no-brainer when I realised I had an opportunity to do well in this sport.”

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THE ROAD TO THE MASTERS

Lewis is currently preparing for the upcoming South African Under-30 Men’s Masters, one of the premier stages for bowls in the country. The three-day competition is set to take place from 6 – 8 February at Wingate Park Bowls Club.

With a gruelling schedule ahead, Lewis emphasises that his "off-green" preparation is just as vital as his time on the grass. To ensure he remains at the top of his game, he focuses on two pillars: rest and reflection.

“I ensure that I get enough rest and always reflect on my games, whether it’s a win or a loss, to determine how I can be ready and better for the next game,” he says.

The athlete enters the tournament with momentum, having recently secured a silver medal at the Eastern Province Men’s Open Singles.

STRATEGY AND SUPPORT

Despite his experience in the BSA U30 and U35 Inter-Districts, the upcoming Masters presents a new challenge. While Lewis is familiar with his opponents, he has yet to face them in an official singles format.

“I am looking forward to playing against everyone in my section and admiring their style of play. I have never played any of them in an official singles match, so I am looking forward to that.”

Behind his success is a strong support system. Lewis credits his teammates and his wife for his mental fortitude on the green.

"My mates always believe in me and trust me to do my job when we play together. And my wife supports me and believes in me more than I do in myself sometimes," he says. He also carries a vital piece of advice with him: 'Always play as if your opponent will play ‘THAT’ shot to beat you'."

"CHESS ON GRASS"

Often misunderstood by outsiders, bowls is a precision sport played on a "green" (grass or artificial surface) divided into "rinks". The objective is to roll asymmetrical balls - bowls - as close as possible to a smaller target ball, known as the "jack" or "kitty".

Lewis describes the game as "chess on grass", requiring a blend of tactical thinking and mental toughness.

“It is action-packed and challenging in the sense that it requires mastering complex techniques. It is also exceedingly accessible and inclusive, a sport for everyone regardless of age.”

ACHIEVEMENTS AND LESSONS

Lewis’s resume is growing rapidly. He is a member of the Green Squad, was named the U30 Inter-District Player of the Tournament in 2023, and holds a silver medal from the Bowls SA B Inter-Districts.

Beyond the accolades, the sport has provided him with a masterclass in discipline. He tells Eyewitness News that bowls has sharpened his ability to adapt and think strategically under pressure.

“The most important lessons I’ve picked up are mental and strategic: concentration, tactical thinking, patience, and composure," Lewis concludes. "You learn consistency in technique, adaptability, and the value of sportsmanship.”