Commonwealth Games bowler Mary Stevenson, known by her incredible nickname “Mary Queen of Shots,” has passed away just a couple of months after winning a gold medal for Scotland at Glasgow 2026. This news hits hard, especially knowing she was still competing at the top level just last weekend. What a legend, gone way too soon after such a monumental achievement.
An Unmatched Gold Medal Moment
Can you even believe it? Stevenson took home that gold in the Para Mixed Pairs B2-B3 alongside Robert Barr, Sarah Jane Ewing, and Jim Aitken. The winning throw that earned her the “Mary Queen of Shots” moniker? That’s the kind of stuff you tell stories about for years. And get this: she was competing just a few weeks before her 74th birthday. That made her the oldest member of Team Scotland and, get this, the oldest female gold medalist in her entire country’s history. Just think about that drive, that sheer will to win at that age. It’s truly inspiring, a testament to what you can do when you love the game.
A Legacy Built on Determination
Her journey to the top is just as wild. Stevenson, a retired chauffeur from Paisley, didn’t even start playing bowls until 2013, when she was 61! She played multiple times a week, absolutely crushing it. When her sight started to go, she thought she’d have to hang it up, but then she found the Blind Bowlers. Talk about not letting anything stop you. Bowls Scotland stated on Facebook, “Only last weekend, she was back competing for Scotland and in great form. It is difficult to believe she is no longer with us.” They’ll remember “the character and joy she brought on and off the green,” and honestly, so should we.
Commonwealth Games Scotland chief executive Jon Doig, who got to see her win that gold, called her “an inspiration to so many.” Team Scotland chef de mission Elinor Middlemiss added that Mary had a “quiet determination” and was a “delight to have around the team hotel.” To win gold with her team was a “fantastic moment,” and you know it was. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, club, and teammates right now. Mary Stevenson’s personality and achievements will definitely be remembered for many, many years to come. What an incredible life and an unforgettable gold medal run.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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