2011 Australian Open: Darebin International Sports Centre, Melbourne
In the women’s singles final, Gippsland teenager Lisa Philips etched her name into the record books after defeating reigning under-25 world champion Sam Shannahan.
The 17-year-old, who hails from Yallourn but bowls for Richmond Union, became the youngest ever winner of the Southern Hemisphere’s marquee lawn bowls tournament when she triumphed over Shannahan 8-6, 8-8 at the Darebin International Sports Centre.
Amazingly, Phillips’ only singles lost at the Australian Open this week came earlier today when she was downed in the under-18 final by Tasmania’s Mikayla Baker in straight sets.
“I was just happy to get this far,” Phillips said following the biggest win of her career.
“I’m almost 18, so I think a new car may be in order (with the $18,000 winners’ cheque).”
