Winning a national title is one thing, defending it is another. For Clevedon BC’s Laura Holden, achieving back-to-back victories in the National Women’s Two Bowl Singles is a feat she describes simply as “an incredible feeling, and one I will never forget.”

But her 2024 final against Oxfordshire’s Lorraine Kuhler was about more than just the bowls. “It was a little more difficult for me than just the bowls as I was playing against one of my best friends,” she admits. A fast start helped ease the nerves. “It really puts your opponent under pressure as they can run out of ends.”

Despite carrying the weight of expectation, Laura stayed true to her calm, focused mindset. “I didn’t approach it any differently, although I was aware that there was slightly more pressure on me after winning the year before,” she says. “I took each game and challenge as they came.”

That ability to stay grounded has come with experience. “Over the years I have gained enough experience to know that putting pressure on yourself doesn’t enhance your performance. I have taught myself to remain calm and not put too much expectation on myself. I have really noticed the difference in my performances on the green.”

Laura’s 2024 also included the unforgettable honour of representing England at the British Bowls International Series, where the squad struck gold on home soil.

“Playing for England, whatever sport you play in, is an incredible honour, but when you play on home soil, it is extra special,” she reflects. “You get to share it with your family, friends and local supporters.”

The team unity, she says, was England’s X-factor: “Every player is supportive and encouraging of each other. From management, to players to supporters, we are one team and we all feel that energy.”

The revamped format suited England’s versatility. “With the new format, it showed we’re a dynamic squad and have incredibly talented, versatile players which enabled us to flourish.”

Closer to home, Laura’s attention is turning to the Walker Cup Regional Finals in May. Another chance to represent Somerset, a county she speaks of with great pride.

“Somerset has been very supportive of me over the years, so I look forward to representing them,” she says. “It’s a great opportunity for counties and players to demonstrate their talents. I always look forward to it.”

Team spirit is clearly important to Laura, and she believes it can be a deciding factor in close games. “Team spirit in a sport like bowls is massive, it could be the difference between a win and a loss,” she says. “I’ve been very lucky at each level to play with people who are supportive on and off the green.”

This year’s Walker Cup format brings new tactics and opportunities. “It’s exciting to field 10 players rather than 8. The multi-disciplines will draw out people’s abilities to play in different events.”

And what about those watching from the sidelines? Laura encourages everyone to go along and support their local sides.

“People would be surprised at how far bowls has come. It’s a great atmosphere, and a chance to see high-level bowls in your region.”

Looking ahead to the new season, Laura’s ambitions remain high, though always grounded in the love of the sport.

“One of my goals would be to win the Two Bowl for a third year running, that would be incredible,” she says. “I’d also love to qualify for as many National Finals competitions as possible and be successful in those.”

And, of course, the England shirt still calls: “I love playing for England and I hope to continue in the 2025 squad as well. But overall, it’s about enjoying my time on the green and playing well.”

The road to national glory begins this May and June as bowlers from every corner of the country come together to represent their counties in the hotly contested Inter-County Events.

Counties will compete in the Balcomb Trophy, Walker Cup, White Rose Trophy and Amy Rose Bowl to decide the eight teams to qualify from the Inter-County Events for the final stages, which will be held during the Aviva National Bowls Finals at Royal Leamington Spa in August.

Balcomb Trophy and Walker Cup events will take place on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 May. White Rose Trophy and Amy Rose Bowl events will take place on Saturday 31 May and Sunday 1 June.