Inspiring Bowler Overcomes Life-Changing Accident to Earn Commonwealth Games Spot
Joe Peplow, a 66-year-old from Malvern, is set to make his first Commonwealth Games appearance this summer, representing England in para bowls at the Glasgow 2026 event. This remarkable achievement comes after a devastating road traffic accident in 2009 that resulted in the loss of both his legs and a shattered pelvis.
A Decade-Long Journey to Sporting Excellence
Peplow's bowls journey began a decade ago when a friend invited him to his local bowls club. Initially skeptical about whether the sport was for him, he gradually developed his skills through social play before progressing to competitive levels. "Slowly but surely I got better and better and started playing with better people," Peplow reflected. "It's just amazing to get where I am today."
The Malvern Indoor Bowls Club member has discovered what he describes as "a new lease of life on the greens" since taking up the sport, finding a competitive outlet that he believes he wouldn't have pursued before his accident. "I don't think I could ever have done it when I had legs," he admitted. "I didn't have the temperament for it."
Gold Medal Ambitions and Emotional Motivation
Peplow approaches the Commonwealth Games with clear ambitions, stating: "My attitude to the Games is to go and win." He acknowledges the challenge ahead, noting that "it is going to be hard work for the next three or four months" of preparation, but believes the effort will be worthwhile.
The bowler wants to secure a gold medal as a way to thank everyone who has supported him throughout his recovery and sporting development. "It would be absolutely amazing," he said of the prospect of winning. "I would be amazed if I don't cry."
Family Support and Competitive Spirit
Peplow paid special tribute to his partner Kim and son Ben for their unwavering support. "A lot of it is to do with my partner and my son, without them I don't know where I would be," he acknowledged. "They have just helped me so much, being there for me." He noted that his son was just 12 years old when the accident occurred, forcing him to mature quickly during a difficult period.
Before retiring, Peplow worked for 30 years as a competitive lorry driver selling frozen goods to Chinese restaurants and takeaways, where he developed a strong competitive drive. "I was always competitive but it was always pool and darts, that sort of thing," he explained. "I had to be number one in the sales team so I would go out and work silly hours." He believes this background has prepared him well for the pressure of international competition.
Team England Para Bowls Representation
Peplow will compete in the men's B6-8 classification alongside Kieran Rollings, who won bronze at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. Despite being 40 years Rollings' senior, Peplow brings considerable experience and determination to the team.
He is part of a 14-strong bowls and para bowls contingent representing England in Glasgow, marking the culmination of what he describes as "the big one" in his sporting career. "I have been bowling for 10 years and I have won quite a few things but this is the big one," Peplow emphasized. "This is the one I really wanted to push for because I don't play outdoors."
As he prepares for the Games, Peplow remains focused on his goal while appreciating the remarkable journey that has brought him to this point. His story serves as a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of sport following life-altering circumstances.
