How Bowls Changed Julie Thomas' Life

As one of Wales’ most decorated visually impaired bowlers, Julie Thomas has rewritten what resilience looks like on the green. A former teacher from Bridgend, she only picked up a bowl for the first time in 2014, yet within two months, she was crowned Welsh Champion. Since then, she has become a dual Commonwealth Games medallist, European Champion and a multi‑time UK Singles champion as well as a role model for para‑athletes across Wales.

I never imagined that bowls would become such a defining part of my life. In fact, before 2014, I had never even picked up a bowl. I was busy juggling family life and a teaching career, living a life that I loved, until everything changed in 2008 when I lost my sight.

Overnight, the world I knew became unfamiliar and I had to rebuild not just my routines, but my whole sense of self.  Finding bowls was unexpected, but it became the turning point I didn’t know I needed.

When I attended a taster session in 2014, I had no idea it would lead me here.  But the moment I stepped onto the green, something clicked and I knew this was for me, I was completely hooked.  It all made sense to me when so much else around me didn’t. Within two months, I became the Welsh Champion.  It still feels surreal to say that, but it was the start of a journey that has taken me around the world and given me a renewed purpose and sense of value.

Although I’m classified as a B1 (visually impaired athlete), I’ve never let that define how or where I play.  I regularly play for sighted teams in leagues and competitions.  I was very proud to be selected as the first blind bowler to play for a sighted County side in 2016.

My guide dog, Yoko, is a gentle, intelligent German Shepherd–Retriever cross.  She’s my constant companion and has been with me through training sessions, competitions and long days of travel.

She has given me back a sense of real independence. She is also my most loyal fan, on hand with a celebratory lick or a quick ‘pick me up’ cuddle if needed.

When I look back, I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, not just because of the medals themselves, but because of what they represent: resilience, reinvention and refusing to give up on myself. 

Some of the highlights of my career so far include: winning four consecutive UK Singles titles.  Earning a Commonwealth Games bronze medal in 2018 and Commonwealth Games silver medal in 2022.  Receiving the Womenspire Champion of Champions Award in 2019.  Inaugural European Champions in 2024.

Every competition has taught me something new about the sport and about myself and I’m proud of all my Welsh and County titles that enable me to play at this level.

I wouldn’t be where I am without the incredible support of the Welsh sporting community.  From local clubs to Team Wales, I’ve always felt surrounded by people who believe in me, push me and celebrate every milestone with me.  I am incredibly lucky to have so much support. From John Wilson who was pivotal to my success, teaching me to bowl and guiding me to medal success through to my club, supporters and family who go that extra mile.

Their encouragement helped me transform from a complete beginner into a world‑class competitor. That sense of belonging has been just as important as any medal.

On the green, my sight loss does not matter, it’s all about the quality of the bowls.  

With my director for clear information, tactile markers and a simple white line I can focus entirely on the game.  Just like any other bowler, weight, line and strategy win the game.  

Bowls demands patience and precision and I love that.  It’s a space where my sight loss doesn’t limit me; its all about my ability.  The sport has given me independence, confidence and a community. It has given me back a part of myself I thought I had lost.

I want to continue representing Wales with pride and to show others, especially those facing life‑changing challenges that it’s never too late to start again.

Losing my sight changed my life, but bowls gave me a new one and I’m grateful every single day for where it has taken me.