Wales para-bowls bronze medalist's guide dog receives custom kit for closing ceremony
Julie Thomas, a visually impaired bronze medallist in mixed pairs bowls, had her guide dog Yoko fitted with a specially made team kit for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games closing ceremony.
Wales earned a bronze medal in the visually impaired mixed pairs bowls at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, with Steffan James and Julie Thomas joining directors John Wilson and Jamie Jones on the podium. Thomas credited her guide dog Yoko as essential to her participation, describing the dog as her "lifeline" on the greens. After previous requests for a team uniform for Yoko went unmet in 2018 and 2022, Chef de Mission Gethin Jones facilitated the creation of a custom Wales kit.
Volunteer Eirian Thomas, who also assists the Team Scotland board, sewed the outfit, adding Yoko's name in Braille. The kit will be presented on Yoko's birthday, which falls on the day of the closing ceremony, allowing the pair to walk out together as a celebrated part of the team.
Why it matters
It showcases the inclusive support provided to athletes with disabilities and their assistance animals at major sporting events.
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