Sue Davies never imagined she would compete at the Commonwealth Games—especially not at the age of 69. A former England international bowler, Davies once dreamed of representing her country on the international stage but missed out on final selection for the 2010 Delhi Games. Now, more than a decade later, she is set to make her debut in Glasgow 2026—not as a player, but as a ‘director’ guiding visually impaired para bowlers.
Davies, from Broadway in the Cotswolds, has been an integral part of the para bowls squad, serving as a guide who helps visually impaired players make strategic shots during competition. Alongside fellow director Elizabeth Shipley, Davies will support visually impaired bowlers Ron Homer and Sally-Ann Lewis-Wall in the upcoming Games. The quartet fondly call themselves “the awesome foursome.”
“My experience with the para bowls squad has been incredible,” Davies shared. “The bowlers are amazing people, and it’s a real buzz to help them improve their games and make the shots they want to, even though they can’t see for themselves. It’s truly rewarding work.”
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Davies’ journey in bowls began in 1995, encouraged by her tennis partner to give the sport a try. She has remained a proud member of Broadway Bowling Club ever since, competing in prestigious events like the Hong Kong Classic and European Championships. Sporting excellence runs in her family too; her nephew Andy Walters and his wife Amy Walters (née Stanton) are both international bowlers.
Having cheered on competitors during Birmingham 2022 when bowls was played at Leamington Spa, Davies is now excited to step into the spotlight herself. “I wasn’t about to miss out on being involved when the Games were practically on my doorstep. Being given this opportunity at my age is just fantastic,” she said.
Davies has been involved with Disability Bowls England for several years and eagerly embraced the director role after training for it. “It’s like a snowball, growing constantly. It’s so important to highlight how inclusive bowls is—anyone with a disability, regardless of age or ability, can play. Bowls has been a huge part of my life, and it really is a sport for everyone.”
Team England is rallying behind athletes like Sue Davies as they prepare to compete to win at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.