Whirlwind 12 months sees 68-year-old Ken Hanson set for Commonwealth Games debut
At 68 years of age, Ken Hanson is set to make his Commonwealth Games debut with the para-sports bowls team just seven months after representing Australia for the first time. At 68 years of age, Ken Hanson is set to make his Commonwealth Games debut with the Para-sports bowls team just seven months after representing Australia for the first time.
Hanson, who hails from Colac in Victoria, only first began efforts to be selected for the Australian Para-athlete squad 12 months ago, having only ever played in open bowls for his local club City Bowls.
He credits an Australian Jackaroo and now Commonwealth Games fellow squad member Brett Wilkie for his stunning rise.
“I must thank Brett Wilkie, who is a member of the Jackaroos and of the team who suggested to me a bit over 12 months ago why not have a try for it,” he said.
“I’ve always played open bowls but it was Brett’s idea to see if I could qualify for the para-sports team and here I am.”
Hanson was born without a left arm and is part of the seven-man Para-sports squad that selectors will reduce to three for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
“Very humbling and very proud to be representing Australia,” he said.
“Never ever in my wildest dreams had I thought of this happening.”
