Andover Bowling Club members Cathy Hopwood and Elainne Piper have been formally recognised for achieving a rare and impressive feat during a recent match – earning the title of hotshots.
The pair were presented with official certificates to mark their achievement in a pairs match against Romsey Bowling Club on 12 May, where they recorded a hotshot – an exceptionally rare score in bowls.
A hotshot is when all the bowls delivered by one team count in a single end. In a pairs match, each bowler delivers four woods, meaning Cathy and Elainne achieved a perfect 8-0 end. This requires exceptional accuracy, consistency, and tactical coordination to prevent any opposition bowls from counting.
Although the pair did not go on to win the match overall, the club says it couldn’t be prouder.
A spokesperson from Andover Bowling Club said:
“Cathy and Elainne didn’t just bowl well – they demonstrated outstanding teamwork and precision to achieve something very few players ever do. Becoming hotshots places them in a very exclusive group.”
Their photo, taken by Cindy McLaughlin, captures the pride and joy of the occasion, with both bowlers beaming after receiving their awards. You can see the image on the Andover Bowls Club website.
Well done, Cathy and Elainne – true Andover hotshots.