- Sports Anyone? -

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BLIND SPORT

Sport is the ideal means to promote the integration of disabled people in general and the blind in particular. Sport can help the blind and vision impaired overcome their disability by strengthening their self-esteem and their ability to overcome difficulties. Sport is an aid to building confidence in their living environment. In short, sport helps bring about the fulfilment of blind and vision impaired person’s lives.

I have maintained an involvement in sport throughout my life. My diminished vision only increased my desire. I just needed to become aware of what was available. I became reclusive when diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, It was sport that opened doors to self esteem and social activity. My competitive juices flowed once again. I dedicated myself to lawn bowls, practising doggedly to improve my ability. Within six years, I was selected to represent Australia at World Titles in 2005 and play sport internationally. I received an Elite Athlete Scholarship at the Northern Territory Institute of Sport in 2004. This gave me support programs and professional guidance. I could not imagine this ever happening in my sighted life.

I encourage all blind and vision impaired people to get involved in different sports and recreational activities. You too, can become a blind athlete and take part in competitions ranging from social sports to elete level championships for the Blind. This can be at local club level, State and National championships and ultimately International Elete Level in many sports.

I am a passionate tandem cyclist on a social level these days, but l have enjoyed a long list of blind sport interests including, lawn bowls, golf, tenpin bowling, fishing, dragonboat racing, kayaking, bushwalking and indoor bias bowls.

Get out in the fresh air and become involved. There is a level available to accommodate
everyone.

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