Louise Hoskins, a 76-year-old Australian para bowler, has etched her name into the record books by becoming the oldest gold medallist in Commonwealth Games history. Alongside her partner Serena Bonnell, Hoskins clinched the women's para bowls pairs B6-B8 title at the 2026 Glasgow Games, defeating New Zealand's Julie O'Connell and Teri Blackbourn in a tense final.
A Historic Victory in Glasgow
The Australian duo triumphed with a 6-3, 4-4 win, but not without drama. Trailing 4-1 in the second set, Hoskins and Bonnell faced the prospect of a sudden-death tiebreaker. However, Bonnell produced a moment of brilliance, nudging the jack and scoring three points to level the set and secure the gold.
Hoskins, who was born during the 1950 Auckland Games and is the oldest competitor at the 2026 Games, expressed her disbelief: "It is incredible. I'm still pinching myself. I never thought I'd ever get [a gold medal] at my age. Get out there and have a go, and never give up."
Overcoming a Formidable Opponent
The New Zealand pair, O'Connell and Blackbourn, were the reigning world champions from 2023 and had earlier defeated Australia in the group stage, dropping just one game en route to the final. But Bonnell, who won silver in Birmingham four years ago, had faith they could turn the tables when it mattered most.
Bonnell credited Hoskins' calming influence during a crucial timeout: "I had good weight on my first, crap line on my second and my coach took a time out. [Louise] settled me down, supported me and that was enough for me to play the bowl and win the game."
Dreams Realised on the Green
Bonnell revealed her pre-match mindset: "I have been dreaming and visualising the fact that I was going to have to play big bowls and Louise led exceptionally well. Thankfully I was able to play the bowl when I needed to."
Hoskins, who was the dominant figure throughout the contest, praised her partner's match-winning delivery: "The moment Serena released it I could see she had it. It was amazing and just heading for the jack. You could see it. I knew it was there before it even came through."
A Record-Breaking Achievement
Hoskins' gold breaks the previous record held by Scotland's George Miller, who was 75 when he won Para Mixed Pairs B2-B3 gold at the 2022 Birmingham Games. Her victory adds to Australia's medal tally in Glasgow and serves as an inspiration to athletes of all ages.
When asked about her celebration plans, Hoskins joked that Bonnell still owed her a few drinks. "Whatever Serena's going to give me," she laughed, showcasing the camaraderie and joy that defined their historic run.
