Ward Sister Chelsea Spencer wants to become a double world champion this week.
The 31-year-old Spalding Lightning competitor is preparing to swap her day job caring for patients on the Acute Cardiac Unit at Pilgrim Hospital in Boston to compete in the World Indoor Bowls Championships.
Chelsea – a third-generation national champ who is ranked number six in England – will be competing in the Ladies Singles and also the Mixed Pairs competitions at Potters Resorts in Hopton-on-Sea, Norfolk.
Ward nurse Chelsea Spencer wants to become a world champ
Chelsea first starting playing bowls when she was nine-years-old and it is very much a family affair as, at the time, her grandparents, dad and brother also played.
Dad Martin Tomlin and grandad Mick Tomlin both competed in the 1990 World Championships.
“I competed at a World Championship qualifying competition and won the event, which means that I now get to go to Norfolk for the Championships,” Chelsea said.
Chelsea Spencer will be compeying in the mixed pairs and singles events
“I am really looking forward to the Mixed Pairs on Friday where I have been paired up with my friend Mark Dawes who is ranked sixth in the world.
“I will then compete in the ladies competition on Sunday.”
Chelsea is part of the Spalding Lightning team that plays at the Castle Complex and has travelled all around the UK playing bowls competing and representing her country.
Chelsea Spencer
“I love my job. It can be quite busy and emotional at times, but when I am on the green I have to forget everything else and just focus,” she said.
“It really is a great escape. In the same way, when I am caring for patients they have my undivided care and attention, I cannot think about bowls and competitions.
“In a way they are a perfect combination for me.”
Pilgrim Hospital in Boston
Chelsea has won a series of national titles including the women’s pairs and national mixed fours title, also captaining England to the British Under 25 team title.
Dad Martin and grandfather Mick won the men’s indoor pairs title five years before Chelsea was born.
Now family, friends and husband Martin, who is also a bowler, will be travelling to Norfolk to add their support.
Chelsea added: “Not too many of my colleagues really know about my bowling.
“I am sure it will be a surprise for them to hear.”