Lawn Bowls is an inclusive sport and with the increased number of inquiries from players how to get classified and different classifications, so these players can enter into the Queensland Multi Disability Championships, Australian Open or even represent Queensland at the Australian Para Nationals.
See more information below regarding the process and click on the links for more information about the procedure and process. If you wish to seek more information about the process, please contact Bowls Queensland.
Lawn Bowls Classification System
Bowlers with a physical disability who wish to bowl in competitive pathways at a state, national or international level will need to be classified. The classification system for lawn bowls is governed by International Bowls for the Disabled (IBD), who keep a database of classified bowlers from around the world. Disability Sports Australia (DSA) provide information on the lawn bowls classification system and the different classes – click here
There are currently two opportunities for bowlers with a disability to be classified in Queensland:
1. Classification Day
A national level classification is obtained by athletes attending a classification session with two qualified classifiers (one medical and one technical classifier) to assess the athlete’s functionality for the sport in a private setting. The classifiers will also observe the athlete in competition. The classifiers will determine if the athlete is classifiable or unclassifiable based on the sport’s classification system, and if classifiable, provide an official card or letter advising the athlete what their classification is and providing a copy of this notice to the governing body of the sport.
A classification day is normally held in conjunction with Bowls Queensland’s annual State Multi-Disability Championships. New participants can be classified at the event, and if found to be unclassifiable, can still compete in the event but will not be eligible for the finals. For more information on QLD Multi Disability Championships click HERE.
2. Provisional Classification (temporary classification)
For athletes unable to attend an official classification day, or seeking classification before the next classification day, Bowls Queensland offer a free provisional classification service for Queensland members. This process takes around six weeks and requires the person seeking classification to get a form completed by a medical practitioner and return with video footage of them participating in the sport they are seeking classification for. This form and footage are then forwarded on by Bowls Queensland to a qualified classifier (volunteer) who will assess the information and footage to provide a provisional classification.
Anyone seeking a provisional classification will need to download the following documents, complete and return to Bowls Queensland who will then be in touch with more information: DOWNLOAD FORM