Ryan sets record to win title

Experience and communication were the cornerstones of a Manjimup bowler’s overall win in the Vision Impaired and Blind Bowler’s Association of WA State Singles Championships.

John Ryan competed in the B1 men’s division, which means he is completely blind.

“It is a handicap event based on sight and it’s the first time a B1 has ever won overall,” Ryan said.

“Thank you so much to my director, my wife, I don’t go anywhere without her direction.”

As part of the competition, Ryan took direction about the angle and distance needed to bowl.

“Based on the length I’m told I need to bowl, I estimate the power I have to put into it,” he said.

Ryan also said he had been participating in the competition for “a while” but it was the best result he had ever achieved at the championships. The event took place on October 11 at the Perth and Tattersall’s Bowling Club.