Lawn bowling for the blind was first introduced at an international level by Dr. Julius Sergay in South Africa in 1977. The then six playing countries, Australia, Canada, England, Scotland, South Africa & Zimbabwe were invited to play in the first World Championships and also to form an International association. The International Blind Bowls Association has steadily increased in membership and now has twelve member countries.
In addition to the previously mentioned six Hong Kong, Israel, Kenya, Malaysia, New Zealand & Wales are now members with efforts now being aimed at the USA as well as more African & Asian countries to join the Association. The twelve member countries boast a membership of some 5000 players which makes it the largest outdoor activity for the blind worldwide.
World Championships are held every four years and so far Australia, Canada, England, Scotland, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and New Zealand, have all hosted the Championships. All three Blind Sport sight categories (B1, B2 & B3) have individual championships for men and women as well as a mixed pair’s championship.
In 1994 blind lawn bowling was introduced into the Commonwealth Games and in 1996 into the Paralympic Games, and in both cases the concept was well received. Most countries employ a coaching system which allows the blind competitors to compete very successfully with and against sighted players even at national level.
Most World Bowling Board Associations' endorse the participation of the blind into their greens and facilities be it local, national or international and we are grateful for this courtesy.
Bowls New Zealand has a “No Exceptions” policy which has made joining local clubs as well as participating in this sport much easier for any person with a disability.
There are now close to 50 countries playing lawn bowls and it is hoped that this Association will obtain more and more blind members as the time goes by. It is a wonderful way to spend a day or an afternoon out in the fresh air and sunshine amongst friends in either friendly or serious competition knowing full well that the loss of vision is a minor setback in this sport.
Admin Login