IT was victory in the face of adversity when Russell Island youngster Zayah Morgan scooped this year's under 15 girls singles gold medal in the State Junior Lawn Bowls titles at Capalaba in April.
Less than a year after a fire razed her family home, the year 7 Chisholm Catholic College student rolled into top position as state champion, knocking out favourite and singles state title holder Stephanie Pratt, with her gold medal win 21-7.
It was Zayah's first tournament and she took to the green using borrowed bowls, wearing borrowed clothes and shoes after the fire, in June, destroyed all her possessions.
The plucky 11-year-old had only signed up to play social bowls on Saturday mornings at Capalaba four months before the competition after her club on Russell Island closed for two months for maintenance.
Grandfather Denis Morgan, who plays at Capalaba Bowls Club, urged Zayah into the competition after the devastating fire.
He lent her his bowls and her cousin, Kalib Morgan, lent her his shorts and shoes.
But the victory was not easy and Zayah had a tough time in the semi, winning by only one shot 21-20 against Emma Hossack from Toowong, who took home the bronze.
The proud grandfather cried tears of joy when Zayah won the U15 Girls Singles title.
Mum Debra Morgan said the past year had been traumatic for her family.
She escaped the fire in her Fiji Street home by jumping from a window, only able to salvage the clothes on her back and a handbag.
Redland City Council was able to alleviate some of the family's woes by discounting fees for building approvals for a new house on the block.
Capalaba Bowls Club president Wally Jacobsen said it was an honour to host the State Juniors this year despite some surprising results.
In the singles, 2015 U15 champ Jessie Cottell, defeated home crowd favourite and current Australian U18 singles champ Sophie Young from Capalaba, 21-6.
Silver medallist Sophie said she had been busy with study and had not playeds much bowls. Sophie also took home bronze in the pairs.
"It will go to Caloundra next year, and it's great to share it around the clubs, but we would gladly have had it here again, and we will apply again for hosting duties," Mr Jacobsen said.
