Why Bowls?
The game of bowls offers competition, goals, ambition and drive. It’s a sport for all the family - where else could people of all ages and both sexes can compete on an equal footing?
The Welsh Bowls Federation recognises that bowls is much more than a sport – it is a healthy and stimulating activity. In a society which is becoming more and more aware of the dangers of obesity, it is even more vital that people take part in sport – whatever their age.
Stories hitting the headlines recently have told of successes from the oldest and youngest generations in bowls.
At the World Short Mat Bowls Championship in Carmarthen, 15-year-old twins Craig and Luke Guymer from Pembrokeshire were part of the team who won the fours title.
And who would have thought that New Zealander Ivan Kostanic – the oldest of the Professional Bowling Association’s 1000 or so members worldwide - would qualify for the Welsh Masters at the age of 83?
The game of bowls offers its members far more than simply gentle physical activity. In particular for Wales’ older generation, the game can improve mental health and well being, progress general health and improve their quality of life.
It’s often easy to underestimate the impact that growing old can have on individuals. Working during the day can be a central part of life offering regular income, a daily routine, a sense of purpose, status and a social network. Bowls can fill the huge void that retirement can leave in people’s lives.
A group of social friends, regular banter, getting out of the house, travelling to the nearest club, sharing experiences and having an identity as part of a valued team member can bring feelings of self worth, confidence and mental strength.
Even for people who still work, the game can offer great physical stimulation. Working can be very sedentary, and playing bowls provides the opportunity to get out of the house in the evening to engage in an active recreation – rather than languishing in front of the television after work!
Bowls is also a huge hit with younger generations in Wales. Young people have been signing up in droves to play bowls after school and join clubs since the launch of a major junior development scheme, which has given 15,000 teenagers a chance to experience the game since 1999.