IBSA Unifies Bowling Disciplines to Boost Global Reach
New Committee Formed to Govern Ten-Pin and Nine-Pin Bowling for Visually Impaired Athletes
The International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) is forging a new path for visually impaired bowling by merging its Ten-Pin and Nine-Pin disciplines. This strategic move aims to enhance sport governance, optimize resources, and foster greater collaboration across the globe.
Streamlined Governance for Growth
Recognizing the shared foundation of Ten-Pin and Nine-Pin bowling, IBSA is consolidating their governance structures. This unification is designed to create a more efficient operational framework, enabling better resource allocation and promoting stronger connections among athletes, coaches, and officials. The ultimate goal is to elevate the sport’s international presence, expand competitive opportunities, and increase the visibility of bowling as an inclusive activity for visually impaired individuals worldwide.
Introducing the New Committee
Following approval from the IBSA Executive Board, the newly established IBSA Ten and Nine Pin Bowling Committee comprises a diverse group of experienced individuals. The committee members are:
- Chairperson: Ruza Markesic (Croatia)
- Asian Representative (Ten Pin Bowling): Vivien Lau (Hong Kong)
- Athletes’ Representative (Ten Pin Bowling): Shlomo Lezmy (Israel)
- Head of Referee (Ten Pin Bowling): Steven Teng Chee Man (Malaysia)
- Technical Sports Manager (Ten Pin Bowling): Nicholas Cheung (Hong Kong)
- Europe Ten and Nine Pin Bowling Representative: Adrian Hibner (Poland)
- IBSA Nine Pin Bowling Representatives: Vedran Dumecic (Croatia), Saso Kajtna (Slovenia), Maria David (Romania)
- Head of Referee (Nine Pin Bowling): To Be Determined
Advancing the Sport’s Profile
This collective brings a wealth of expertise and dedication, positioning IBSA to significantly improve its service to athletes and stakeholders. Their combined efforts are expected to enhance the global profile of bowling within the visually impaired community. In 2023, adaptive sports participation saw a notable increase, with over 400,000 individuals engaging in various para-sports globally, underscoring the growing interest in accessible athletic pursuits (IPC, 2023).
