Kia Toa celebrates historic season

Kia Toa Men’s Player of the Year recipients (from left) Rana Matenga and Craig Ridden receive the trophy from Mick Gorman. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

It was a night of celebration and historic milestones at the Kia Toa Bowling Club’s annual awards, as the club reflected on a season defined by clinical precision on the green and a trophy cabinet brimming with South Canterbury titles.

For the first time in the club’s history, the Men’s Player of the Year award was shared. Selector Des Shea admitted to "sleepless nights" attempting to separate the two frontrunners, eventually naming Rana Matenga and Craig Ridden as joint recipients of the trophy, presented by Michael Gorman.

The duo’s crowning achievement was anchoring Kia Toa’s victory in the prestigious Life Members Division 1 Saturday competition. Facing the toughest opposition in South Canterbury, Matenga and Ridden proved a formidable force in the pairs, remaining unbeaten with a perfect 11-0 record. When Matenga was unavailable, Ridden maintained that clinical form to finish the competition undefeated.

Matenga made an immediate impact in his debut season, clinching the Kia Toa Club Singles — widely considered the hardest club title to win in the region. Meanwhile, Ridden showed immense grit in the Champion of Champion Triples, narrowly missing the title on the final end against Temuka. Skip Michael Goodger praised the efforts of Ridden and teammate Richard Bennett for their high-calibre play throughout the tournament.

In the ladies’ division, Sharon Leonard left no room for debate, winning the Bowler of the Year award in convincing style. Leonard’s season was nothing short of extraordinary; she was a member of the teams that swept all four club championship titles and secured a staggering five South Canterbury titles.

Leonard was quick to share the spotlight, highlighting the rise of Marg May. In her first year of bowling, May was instrumental in securing her first South Canterbury titles and was deservedly named the Most Improved Female Bowler.

The club also recognised those who contribute to the culture off the green. Morris Guthrie was named Personality of the Year, cited for his unwavering commitment and the trademark humour he brings to the club.

Most Improved Male Player went to Jack Priddle. Recognised for his "spectacular dedication", Priddle showed immense promise throughout the season and is tipped as a player to watch in the coming years.

Official Results: 2025-26 Season

Men’s Championships

Senior Singles: Rana Matenga

Junior Singles: Paul Brohan

Open Singles: Noel Williams

Colts Singles: James Blissett

Pairs: Dean Harper & Dan Johnston

Triples: Michael Goodger, Craig Ridden, Richard Bennett

Fours: Trevor Cloughley, Lockie Barnes, Michael Leonard, Ian Holley

Mixed Pairs: Trevor Cloughley & Sam McAuliffe