Australian lawn bowler Natasha Scott has her sights set firmly on long-term prizes despite the disruption caused by the global coronavirus pandemic.
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The 29-year-old, who represents Raymond Terrace Bowling Club, wants to defend dual titles at both next year's rescheduled World Championships on the Gold Coast and the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
Scott previously won gold medals in the women's triples and fours at both international events, the 2016 World Championships in New Zealand and most recently the 2018 Commonwealth Games on home soil at Broadbeach.
Clubs and greens, up until this week, had been closed or off limits across the country because of COVID-19 restrictions while competitions at every level remain on hold but Scott hasn't let the forced break impact her focus.
"I just have to look at the future and keep my eyes on the prize," Scott said.
"We have a lot of training to do both mentally and physically off the green, so that has definitely kept me busy.
"World Championships have been cancelled for 2020 but rescheduled for the same time in 2021.
"Commonwealth Games in 2022 is my long-term goal. Training and preparation has started already."
Following last year's victory, Scott has now claimed the Australian Open women's singles crown twice.
Last week Scott endorsed the appointment of fellow Hunter athlete Kurt Fearnley as an Australian team leader for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
Scott has also been named an Australian Institute of Sport and Lifeline community custodian for 2020-2021. She is one of 22 AIS athletes to hold the role.
The partnership between the two organisations is designed to deliver an "impactful community engagement program", with athletes stepping up to help increase awareness around suicide prevention and encourage anyone who needs support to reach out and ask for help.
"I cannot wait to work with the other 21 talented past and present athletes over the next 12 months to raise awareness around mental health and suicide prevention," Scott said.
Bowls NSW issued a statement on April 30 allowing clubs to open outdoor greens. Raymond Terrace have opted for roll ups on Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 8am and 12pm.
