Bowling by persons who are blind is not only possible but can also be highly competitive. Just ask anyone in the American Blind Bowling Association or at the International Blind Sports Association about tournaments, training, and rules!

• Request the assistance of a sighted friend who can help you align your approach for delivery and tell you which pins remain for the next throw.
• Guide rails can help with both your approach and delivery. These lightweight tubular metal rails are easy to assemble and can help guide you straight toward the pins.
• The guide rail is set up from the foul line back toward the seating area, on either the left or the right side of the alley, and ends at the foul line.
• Some alleys or bowling centers may have guide rails already in place or available for loan.
• With practice, using guide rails can be an effective bowling adaptation. The photo (below) from the International Blind Sports Federation illustrates guide rails in use.
• If you have low vision, try keeping score on large paper with a dark marking pen, since some electronic scoring devices may be difficult to read.

Helpful websites about adapted bowling include:

• The American Blind Bowling Association provides information about local leagues and tournaments.
• The International Blind Sports Association provides information about techniques, rules, equipment, and tournaments.
• See Sports & Exercise, Sports Groups, and Recreation, Sports, & Leisure Products for tips, answers to frequently-asked questions, and resources for sports and leisure equipment and activities.