The husband-and-wife combination have been learning from some of the world’s most experienced umpires at World Indoor Bowls Championships, taking place at the iconic Potters Resort venue in Hopton-on-Sea.
It is another benefit of Guernsey hosting two major international events in successive years – the similarly-named World Bowls Indoor Championships in 2024, on top of the 2023 home Island Games – that the duo of young-but-experienced officials and players were noticed at this level.
They umpired and marked multiple matches on home soil and it was there that they caught the eye of World Bowls Tour head official Allan Thornhill.
‘Catherine and Josh and shown themselves to be more than capable at large international events,’ Thornhill said.
‘They are here this weekend to observe and shadow our most experienced team members with a view of inviting them onto our team.
‘The famous portable rink at this World Indoor event can be a daunting place to work for those that have not experienced its unique atmosphere, along with the world’s top players.’
The WBT added in a social media post that they ‘look forward to welcoming them back in future years’.
Guernsey star Ali Merrien, a winner and multiple medallist at Potters, gave her congratulations to both Bonsalls.
‘This is a brilliant opportunity for them both,’ she said.
‘It is great exposure to the bigger umpiring stage and I wish them all the best.’
The championships conclude on Sunday 25 January.
Guernsey’s Jason Greenslade went out in the first round of the men’s singles at Potters after losing 7-6, 10-5 to England’s Tom Holmes.
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