Ian Graham has been participating and competing in visually impaired bowls for 15 years. At 67 years old, sport has taken Ian all around the world and provided him with incredible memories and friendships for life.
“I have enjoyed every minute of it,” he expressed.
As a B2 classified player, Ian shares that the game helps him focus and challenges him physically.
“When you get onto the green, you are most certainly working on the physical side of things, you’re putting your all into it, you’re walking back and forth from end to end delivering balls. At the same time, you are mentally aware, you’ve got to be focused and aware of what you are doing with the tactical side of things.”
Ian was skeptical when it was first suggested that he try bowls.
“When Ron McArthur came to the sensory centre looking for people to play bowls, I declined,” he explained.
Ian was swayed when he spoke to his son, who was also starting out his own journey in Parasport.
“My youngest boy, Niall, played basketball for England All Stars. He became registered as visually impaired as well, and he phoned me up to tell me that he had been pre-selected for the London 2012 Paralympics in Goalball.”
Niall’s success inspired Ian to say yes to the opportunity, and fifteen years later, he wishes he only wishes that he took it up earlier.
Ian now plays for the Forth Valley Visually Impaired Bowlers club, sharing that he enjoys supporting others to give bowls a go and seeing them enjoy the benefits.
“Yes, I have had success, and it has given me a lot of pleasure, but the greatest pleasure that I get is when I am with guys and girls that we’ve recruited as players, and we are on the bowling green speaking.
“They might not be the best bowlers in the world, and they’re just attending for the social aspect, but they are standing and having a blether. That is the greatest achievement because we have got them out of those dark places.”
Though the game indeed has many physical benefits, Ian emphasises that it is the mental and social benefits which can have the biggest impact on players.
“As a person who had pretty much given up on life, thinking it has all passed them by, I can tell you there is nothing better than being able to put the Scotland shirt on and stand with your teammates and represent your country.
“The good thing about bowls is the community. It’s not the biggest sport in the world, but we all meet up together and understand that we are part of the greater movement of bowls. This all adds to the stimulation when you go to meet people.”
Whether aiming to represent your country or simply looking for a new hobby, Ian encourages everyone to give his sport a go.
“Don’t delay, just do it.
“There are plenty of avenues; find your local club - there is so much you can gain from it!”
