Two veterans of the game fired into form at the country's pre-eminent bowls event in New Plymouth today.
Peter Belliss and Rowan Brassey advanced to the final 16 in the men's singles section at the National Open Championships.
Belliss has won the men's singles title three times during his career, the last time in 1992.
After something of a hiatus Belliss fired into form to go unbeaten in the first four rounds of post-section play today.
Another veteran Petar Sain fought some challenging battles to earn a sport in the final 16.
For the recently successful Black Jack squad, who brought back a clutch of medals from World Bowls in Adelaide last month, it was not a good day at the office.
Matthew Gallop was picked off by 2011 Men's Singles Champion Shaun Scott 12-21, in the first round, Ali Forsyth was pushed out by Scott Evans 17-21 in the second round, and Richard Girvan came up short against Kevin Robinson 19-21 in the last match of the day.
Former Black Jack Danny Delany will join the other 15 bowlers fighting for a shot at the title, as the round of 16 kicks off at 8:30am tomorrow on greens around New Plymouth.
