Welcome to the official website of the Welsh Association of Visually Impaired Bowlers.
We are the National organisation that administers vision impaired bowls in Wales.
We coordinate a programme of bowling activities, training opportunities and competitions for Welsh bowlers (or those eligible to represent Wales).
There is also designated VI coaching available through affiliated clubs.
We are always keen to recruit new bowlers to our wonderful sport.
Maybe you have stopped playing bowls due to deteriorating vision and you can no longer see the jack.
Maybe you have never considered playing bowls due to sight loss, you didnβt think you could?
Perhaps now is the time to give it a try! You would be most welcome.
Bowls is both social and competitive.
Not only can you learn or improve a new skill, you will make great friends as well as play in competitionsΒ so why not challenge yourself or encourage someone you know with a vision impairment to get in touch with us here
Bowls is an amazing sport and there are so many reasons to play it.
We have members from early 20βs to 102! It is truly inclusive.
Bowls is a sport and can be played socially (club level) or competitively right up to the highest level on the International stage at World and Commonwealth Games.
Many of our players compete in mainstream clubs and play in sighted clubs and competitions successfully.
We believe everyone should be able to enjoy and benefit from playing sport. Bowls gives everyone that chance because it's a sport that CAN be played by ALL. It's INCLUSIVE sport at its best.
Some good reasons to try it:
Its a great way to improve your physical and mental health
There will be a club near you (not far to travel)
The rules are simple so you start playing fast
A very social side to bowls (Bowls clubs are full of people looking to have fun, so bowls is a great way to relax, make new friends and feel part of your local community.
Many varieties to try
Not expensive
Perfect for all
Coaching and Clubs
We have VI coaching available at any one of our listed clubs.
But we work with many clubs and associations to try and ensure you would be welcome at any club near to you.
If you need help with some advice and training at an alternative venue please get in touch. Our Team Manager visits clubs regular to train and coach. He often takes other VI players with him to assist.
We have developed an accredited course for Director training and this assists anyone willing to learn how to best assist and direct a VI bowler in their game.
International Success
Wales has a proud history of success at International level ( find out more here ) achieving its share of medals and titles over the years with representatives playing in National, International, World, Paralympic and Commonwealth Games Championships.
As Para bowls events continue to grow and gather momentum , their place in combined World and European Tournaments becomes more certain and the inclusion of our amazing sport is real.
The first Para European Championships took place September 2024 and was won by Wales. Gold for VI Mixed Pairs.
VI Bowls Community
Bowls offers many opportunities to get involved. As a group each club offers weekly session and WAVIB offers events training and get together.
Outside of our associated clubs, many of our players join the indoor stadiums, play league games, join an outdoor club, play county and Welsh competitions.Β Β There is so much on offer, competitively or just socially.
What is Visually Impaired Bowls?
Although Bowls has been around for centuries it was not until 1959 that people with a vision impairment were introduced to the game of bowling.
In those early days the VI bowler would be placed on the mat and instructed to bowl to the sound of the voice, the clapping of hands or the ringing of the bell from behind the jack.
Today the coaching system used is based on the 'clock' system and enables bowlers to play bowls in a more streamlined and efficient way.
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Olympic gold medallist Dame Mary Peters behind bid for bowls to be included at 2032 Games
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After the success of Team NIβs bowlers at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow - when for the first time everyone came home with a medal - there is a push to have the sport included in the Brisbane 203...
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