Ron Homer, a visually impaired bowler from Yeovil, has expressed his satisfaction despite narrowly missing out on gold at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Having lost his sight around 30 years ago, bowls has become a significant part of Homer’s life. Partnering with close friend Sally-Ann Lewis-Wall in the competition, the duo reached the final where they were narrowly defeated by Scotland’s Mary Stevenson and Robert Barr in a thrilling contest decided on an extra end.
“You want the gold, but I’ve no complaints to get a medal,” said Homer, who at 74 was the oldest member of Team England’s delegation.
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“It’s been an interesting few days because there were times when I didn’t think we were going to get out of the group stages, so playing for a gold medal was a great result for us.”
“Of course you want to win, but they just played better at the big moments,” he added.
Homer has an extensive international career representing England in disability bowls, including multiple appearances at the International Blind Bowls Association World Championships. He secured his first world title 11 years ago in New Zealand and was honoured with the British Empire Medal for his contributions to the sport.
Reflecting on his journey, Homer shared, “When I lost my sight in the mid-1990s, everything changed. I lost my driving licence, I couldn’t work anymore, and it felt like my whole world had collapsed. Eventually, I was assigned a social worker who mentioned a visually impaired bowls club in Yeovil. I knew nothing about bowls, but I plucked up the courage to join. I’ve loved it ever since.”
“It’s taken me around the world and now I’m a Commonwealth Games medallist. That’s very special.”
Lewis-Wall, who has tunnel vision and can see only about four metres ahead, arrived in Glasgow as a strong contender after winning para women’s gold at the inaugural World Bowls World Cup in Malaysia and bronze in the para mixed pairs event alongside Homer.
“Being at the Commonwealth Games has been fabulous. I’m really pleased with how we’ve played, and it’s been a great experience – I’ve no complaints about a silver medal,” she said.
Looking ahead, Lewis-Wall added, “The next outdoor World Championships are in 2027 in Leamington. We’re looking forward to that and will keep working hard in the hope of being there.”
Thanks to National Lottery players, over £33 million is raised weekly to support good causes including sports, arts, heritage, and community projects, as well as athletes competing at events like the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games across the UK.