From socials to the masters: Thinus van Zyl’s strategic journey to the green

Thinus van Zyl’s introduction to bowls was a family affair. What began as casual Saturday socials with his father at the Harrismith Bowling Club eventually transformed into a dedicated pursuit of competitive excellence.

“So it started with me going with my dad to play some socials on a Saturday, and once became twice,” van Zyl recalls.

“A few times later, I joined Harrismith Bowling Club as a member and entered club competitions. I enjoy the competitive nature of the game and the mental focus it demands. Every end requires strategy, adaptability, and concentration, which keeps me engaged and motivated to improve and play at a higher level.”

Van Zyl is currently gearing up 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 scheduled to take place from 6–8 February at the Wingate Park Bowls Club.

RIVALRY AND RESPECT

Among the high-stakes matchups on the horizon, one specific fixture stands out for van Zyl: a face-off against a long-time peer.

“I am looking forward the most to the game against Adrian Bookless. We both started off in Harrismith and have competed and trained together,” says van Zyl.

“We have known each other for a long time and have faced each other on numerous occasions. I value our friendship, and we have respect for each other’s game.”

PREPARATION: BEYOND THE GREEN

Speaking to Eyewitness News, van Zyl emphasised that success at the Masters requires more than just technical skill; it demands rigorous physical and nutritional discipline.

“Off the green, I focus on maintaining a well-nutritious meal plan, and ensuring that I am properly hydrated is also key. Working towards being physically fit also helps during the longer games by ensuring that my thoughts aren’t distracted by cramps and my concentration broken by an aching body.”

This holistic approach provides him with the stamina needed for the final stages of a gruelling tournament.

While bowls is historically associated with "pensioners", the sport has seen a significant surge in junior participants. Van Zyl is a vocal advocate for the game’s modern, competitive edge.

“I know bowls does not look exciting at first, but that’s the surprise. It is actually really competitive and a way more strategic game than you would expect,” he says.

“What I like is that you can be social or competitive; it all depends on what you want. Worst case -you try it once and decide it is not for you. Best case - you find a sport that challenges your brain, feeds your competitive side, and has a great vibe.”

RITUALS AND MENTORSHIP

To get into the "right mindset", van Zyl relies on a pre-game playlist and a unique tactical superstition.

“I definitely have a few go-to songs that I like listening to before the day starts,” he says.

“A superstition I have is that when I need a different playing style, either more attacking or more defensive, I change to a different cap.”

Having represented three different districts - KZN Country, North West, and Northern Free State - van Zyl credits a network of mentors for his growth. As he heads into the Masters, he carries a vital piece of advice from his journey: “A lesson I would take into the Masters is not to dwell on a mistake from the previous end but to stay focused in the present end.”