More than a roll, Mooketsi finds success in bowling
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday June 1, 2026 06:00
She won the Lebo Mascarenhas floating trophy following an incredible tournament, winning two gold medals and a silver.
Mooketsi scooped a gold medal in the women’s singles category, and she was part of the triples team that won a gold medal. Other team members on the trips included Portia Tsietso and Bolele Boima.
She was also part of the four-team setup of Lesedi Mafhoko, Malebogo Keorotse, and Mighty Morwaagole that won a silver medal. Born 44 years ago in Mochudi, Mooketsi started rolling the bowls in 2012. “I grew up in a small village called Dikgonnye in Kgatleng District, and what attracted me to lawn bowls was the social interaction and its competitive nature,' she explained.
According to the bowler, she plays all positions, but prefers playing as a lead.
Mooketsi told MmegiSport that she was impressed by her performance at the National Championships, and she had prepared for the tournament by doing more practice, assessments and attending tournaments.
She said the victory means a lot to her because it is proof that her adjustment worked. When asked about her style of play, Mooketsi explained that it is about reading the head. A head is an area encompassing all the bowls in play and the jack.
“During a game, I read the head and adjust my target, speed and use my teammates' or opponent's bowls. I prefer to play a resting shot right on the jack. My thought process when deciding to drive (fire) at the head depends on how the head is. For me, I find a lane and do a smooth release to move inside. I play with size 0000 bowls, and the model is Drakes Pride, Protea. I use fingertip grip,” she said. “I am aware that bowls is considered an expensive sport or a sport for the elite members of the community, but I believe it is only expensive if you make it expensive. For me, it is not. My family is supportive, and they keep encouraging me to continue working hard.” When asked about the state of bowling in Botswana, she said there is growth and more youthful players are coming up in the game. Mooketsi said at the moment, she does not fear any local player. The bowler has booked her ticket to the Glasgow Commonwealth Games and the Africa States Tournament (AST). She said, although a bit nervous, she is proud to be part of the Commonwealth Games team.
'I am looking forward to competing with the best bowlers in the world and gaining more experience,' she said.
Mooketsi will partner with Gaoromelwe Mpopi Pelemo and Sebathu Chinky Sinombe for the Commonwealth Games.
The Games in Scotland will take place from July 23 to August 2. The streamlined, sustainable event will feature 10 sports and six para-sports across four iconic city venues, including the Scottish Event Campus (SEC).
Meanwhile, the AST will be held in September in Lusaka, Zambia. The team comprises Mooketsi, Pelemo, Sinombe, Kefilwe Tompie Moleleki, and Goitsemodimo Peo Ramodise.
FACT FILE
Full names: Boikhutso Mooketsi Date of birth: November 25, 1981 Place of birth: Mochudi Sport: Lawn bowler Club: Jwaneng Achievements: Singles champion 2026, Triples Champion 2026, Fours silver medallist Hand: Right-handed Hobbies: Playing, reading, and dancing Favourite meal: Meat and rice