The XCEDA Finance Paradise Bowls Tournament is back for another year and promises plenty of excitement.

A full field of 32 men’s teams will battle it out for glory across the two days, with the top 16 battling for overall honours on day two, and the bottom 16 trying to win their division and the wooden spoon.

Ōhope Bowling Club’s Katarina Stepec is pleased to have attracted a full field.

“There are teams forming all over the North Island,” she said.

Palmerston North, Hawke’s Bay, Auckland, Tauranga, Wanangui, Taupō and even South Africa will all be represented at the event this year.

Barry Wakley’s Oamrunui team took out top spot last year and they are hoping to make it back-to-back titles, although there will be plenty of teams looking to run them down.

Stepec said the bowls on display would be of high quality.

“We have first, second and third placegettters all returning, while the 2023 winners are back to try and win the crown back.

The 2023 winner, Dave Jones, is returning not only because they would like another win, but because they love the tournament.

Overall, there is $500 up for grabs,

Stepec said it would be a tough effort to knock any of the hometown men over.

Tonight, the club is hosting the teams for dinner, ahead of play beginning on Saturday.

Earlier in May, the club hosted their women’s equivalent with great success.