Kurri Kurri bowler Nathan Dawson continued his ­successful 2013 campaign with a nail-biting win in the Hunter District Bowling Association Champion of Champions singles final on Sunday.

Dawson had jumped out to an early 7-0 lead against Wayne Lambourne, but his Maitland City opponent quickly hit back and led for most of the contest.

With only three ends remaining, Dawson drew level and went on to claim a dramatic 31-29 win at Lorn Park Bowling Club.

Earlier in the day, Dawson had coasted through his semi-final with a 31-21 win over Singleton’s Nathan Allen, while Lambourne battled to a 31-28 win over East Maitland’s Michael Smith.

Dawson now progresses to the next round of the annual Bowls NSW knockout competition, with the zone play-offs to be held in the Manning district in late September.

The Champion of Champions tournament will host its pairs event at Telarah Bowling Club next weekend.