about abba

Bowling is a sport that has been enjoyed by many people both nationally and internationally. Since the 1940's the ABBA has enabled blind and visually impaired youths and adults to bowl alongside sighted friends and family. The development of special guide rails has made this possible.

Throughout the year tournaments are held in many locations in North America. On or around the Memorial Day weekend a National Tournament is held in a predetermined city; this event is open to all leagues and individuals who have chosen to sanction with the ABBA. At designated times during the year, there are Area Associations that sponsor tournaments in their geographic regions; they are the Eastern Blind Bowling Association (EBBA), Midwest Blind Bowling Association (MWBBA), Southeastern Blind Bowling Association (SBBA) and the Upstate New York Blind Bowling Association (UNYBBA). There are also non-sanctioned tournaments that ABBA does lend some assistance to as well.

A publication called "The Blind Bowler" is distributed three times during the bowling season (October, January and April). Articles are submitted from leagues, secretaries and individuals involved in the ABBA. The content of these articles is to inform the membership of such things as ABBA business, tournament events and standings, etc.

The American Blind Bowling Association has also been involved in developing its sport in other countries. Together with the United States Association of Blind Athletes (USABA) bowlers from North America have participated in events hosted by other countries. Efforts are being made to establish bowling as a recognized sport in the Para-Olympic Games.

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