When Khalila Hussain from Stratton Churchway BC, Wiltshire speaks about her journey to the Aviva National Finals in the Women’s Pairs, her voice carries a blend of excitement and gratitude. Her story is not just about achieving sporting excellence but also about perseverance, partnership, and overcoming physical challenges.
Khalila has been playing bowls with her partner Wendy Anderson for three years. Each year, their journey has seen them reach the last eight, and in their third year together in 2024, they have made it through to the Bowls Wiltshire finals to qualify.
This year, qualifying for the finals holds special significance. “Given Wendy is 87 now, our dream this year was to just get to the last eight again,” Khalila shares. “We always want to help each other achieve, and I wanted to get Wendy back to Leamington after so many years!”
Playing bowls is a passion for Khalila, but it comes with its challenges. She manages her game while dealing with pain and balance issues, using a wheelchair for mobility around the green and a walking stick when delivering a bowl.
“Sometimes with a disability that is not always visible, it can be difficult as it can look as if I am fine and can move around quickly, but that is not always the case while I am playing,” she explains. Remarkably, the adrenaline rush during play often alleviates her pain, allowing her to focus on the game.
One of the standout moments in Khalila’s journey was the semi-final this year. She recounts the thrilling last end in the county semi-final: “We were 13-15 down, holding two at the crossover, and as Wendy bowled, she drew in three of four inches jack high to make us three up. Our opponent, Michelle (Williams), started bowling with weight, but wasn’t able to get the shot and took out some of their own bowls, so we ended up getting a five as Wendy continued to draw her bowls in on the backhand. It was a tough game, so to get a win like that was fantastic.”
Khalila’s success is not just her own; it is shared with a supportive bowls club community, family and friends. Playing in Leamington with Disability Bowls England (DBE), she has found a family that champions inclusion. She is grateful to key figures such as Steve Watson, Maggy Smith MBE, Sue Davies, Judy Plater, and Stuart Aspie, who organizes the competitions. Khalila also highlights the lasting influence of Mo Monkton, a significant figure in her life.
Khalila also recalls a special memory that provided the foundations for her bowls journey. “When I wanted to learn to play and was turned away from a local club, a kind lady named Mary Ballard of North Wilts BC welcomed me to the disabled group there weekly.
“She patiently tried different methods of which would suit me so I could play. Mary then told me about Disability Bowls England and the rest is history…”
For Khalila, qualifying for the Aviva National Finals is a testament to dedication and teamwork. “Getting to Leamington is such an achievement, and we are thrilled to be going, so we will give it all we have got,” she declares.
The Aviva National Finals are just around the corner. Taking place from 15th August to 1st September, the Aviva National Finals will see bowlers from across England competing fiercely to be crowned National Champions. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness more brilliant action and cheer on your favourite players.
Tickets are available from £5.50 for adults, and more information about the event may be found at bowlsengland.com/Aviva-National-Finals.
Whether you’re qualifying for the tenth time or the first, with a partner, a family member, or on your own, we want to hear your story.
Share your journey to qualification this year or in previous National Finals for a chance to be featured on Bowls England’s social media channels and website.