Summerset National Awards | Para Bowler of the Year | Teri Blackbourn

Living with rheumatoid arthritis since childhood, she has overcome significant challenges to reach the highest levels of the sport.  

After returning to lawn bowls only a few years ago, she has quickly become a leading figure within New Zealand's para bowls programme.  

A highlight of her season was her continued success in international competition.  

Already a world champion after claiming gold in the inaugural Women's Para Pairs at the 2023 World Bowls Championships alongside Julie O'Connell, Blackbourn added further international achievements to her growing résumé.  

During 2025 she secured a silver medal in the World Cup Para Women's Singles and a bronze medal in the Para Mixed Pairs, confirming her ability to perform consistently against the world's strongest para bowlers.  

Her performances also earned selection for New Zealand's para bowls team at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where she partnered with longtime teammate Julie O'Connell in the Women's B6-B8 Pairs.  

The pair produced an outstanding campaign, defeating strong opposition from across the Commonwealth before ultimately claiming the silver medal.  

Beyond the medals and results, Blackbourn has become an inspiring ambassador for bowls. She has spoken openly about her experience living with a largely invisible disability and the opportunities that para sport has provided.  

Her story demonstrates that bowls is a sport where people of all backgrounds and abilities can compete, belong, and achieve success.  

Those who know Teri speak not only of her talent, but also of her positivity, humility, and commitment to her teammates.  

Congratulations to Teri Blackbourn on being named Bowls New Zealand's 2026 Para Bowler of the Year. This award recognises an exceptional year of achievement and celebrates a player who continues to inspire both on and off the green.

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