In the third of our “Knowledge” pieces on the Special Olympics Summer Games, we're taking a look at Short Mat Carpet Bowls, one of the twelve sports which will be on display in Bath.
According to World Bowls, Bowls is very similar to Boccia. The objective of the sport is to get one or more of bowls closer to the jack than the opposing individual or team, for which each team is awarded points. The winning team is the team that has accumulated the most points at the end of the game. The number of bowls per player is determined by the number of players per team.
To play Bowls, the basic equipment is a level playing surface, foot mats, a target ball (jack), and a set of bowls (four bowls in a set). It can be played with one up to four players per team.
Bowls can provide athletes with open air exercise, comradeship, and improved mental and physical facilities. Standard competitions normally last around three hours per match.
During the games, the indoor tennis courts at Bath University will be transformed into the home of Special Olympics Bowls as 72 athletes from across Britain compete to be crowned champion of their section.
If you're interested in finding out more about Special Olympics Short Mat Carpet Bowls, check out the website to find out how you can support the awesome athletes from your area competing in Bath.
