Once again, some of our visually impaired bowlers who meet every week to play at CJs in Hockley entered the British Blind Sport Bowling Trios competition. This is the first time that 3 teams have competed and we are pleased to say that all 3 qualified for the finals in Sheffield this year.

The Southend VIPers (Ray, Russell, Gary and Claire) finished third, the Kinch Pins (Anne, Keith and Linda) came fifth, while Norf and South (Liam and Nicky – playing as a satellite team with 2 players from “Up North”) placed sixth.

Everyone who took part should be very proud of their achievement – we knew they could do it! Even Christopher the Guide Dog joined in with his own Southend VIPers blue bandana.

Anne Morris, the bowling activity lead says: “It’s amazing that 3 teams from the top 16 in the country are from Southend and we all finished in the top half. There is such support and camaraderie between all our players, as well as some gentle teasing. I’m so proud of our results. Everyone bowled their best in unfamiliar surroundings and made Southend proud!”

The photo shows left to right: Ray, Russell (with Christopher), Liam, Nicky, Gary, Keith and Linda. Crouching down in front are Anne and Clare.

For more information on visually impaired bowling, please contact Southend in Sight on 01702 342 131.