Special Olympics Proud Of Bermuda Bowlers
Team Special Olympics ten-pin bowlers finished their campaign at the IBF Para World Championships in Hong Kong today [January 21].
The Bermuda team featured Jayvyn Iris, Teven Graham, Alshauntae Symonds, and Ciara Bell, led by head coach Chandra Lee Bascome.
They were supported by assistant coach Juanita Easton, team medic Chris Cunningham, and national director Karen Woollery.
In the mixed competition yesterday, Bermuda came sixth after their four matches.
Meanwhile, in the singles events today, Symonds placed nineteenth and Bell 20th in the female competition. Iris came 27th in the men’s event.
The team withdrew from the doubles competition due to illness and injury.
“Team Bermuda has made remarkable strides at the IBF Para Games in Hong Kong, showcasing their determination and skill in the face of tough competition,” read a Special Olympics Bermuda social media post.
“The Bermuda delegation was the only regular Special Olympics team participating, surrounded by elite competitors who are capable of outperforming Bermuda’s best teams.
“Despite this, Team Bermuda has demonstrated resilience, with athletes honing their skills throughout the ten games played.
“Unfortunately, not all athletes were able to compete at their best due to injuries.”
New to the bowling team were Iris and Graham, who showed resilience and grit throughout their competitions.
“Jayvyn, a strong contender for the team, had sustained bruises while showcasing resilience as he tried to keep pace with the unexpected competition,” the post continued.
“Teven has also faced similar challenges and illness. The two female bowlers, Alshauntae Symonds and Ciara Bell, are no strangers to competition, both having competed in the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany.
“Ciara has consistently pushed through the competition and World Games gold medallist Alshauntae, initially struggling to settle in, has also stepped up her game in a commendable manner.
“Team Bermuda continued to showcase promise for improvement despite being relatively inexperienced at this level of competition.”
The post concluded with high praise for the athletes and their support staff.
“We applaud the athletes and head coach Chandra Lee Bascome for their spirit and tenacity, laying the foundation for future successes in the sport,” the post added.
“Likewise, we commend assistant coach Juanita Easton and team medic Chris Cunningham, who have provided extensive support to the team.
“The experience gained in Hong Kong will undoubtedly fuel Team Bermuda’s passion for bowling as they return home this weekend.”
