Commonwealth Games 2026: Famous uncle and memories of 2014 inspire Riva

Riva took up the sport “around seven”, explaining: “I can’t really remember a time when I didn’t play.”

Her family is steeped in bowls and Marshall is the blockbuster headline act, with an astonishing 15 world indoor gold medals, seven world outdoor golds and five Commonwealth Games golds.

So it is unsurprising he has been a huge influence and inspiration on Riva.

“Within our sport he is a legend and within Scottish sport he is a legend,” she said of her uncle.

“He has been at the top forever and that is a huge inspiration to me. Learning from him and getting to grips with his knowledge and the way he plays the game is definitely what has helped me get to the point where I am today.

“I have followed his game around the world and watching him perform at the highest level over this huge span of time, I have picked up lots of bits and pieces and really learned through his eyes.

“We enjoy playing together when we can. He spends a lot of time in Australia but when he is here we like to play in competitions together and we do learn from each other.”

Riva is already starting to make a name for herself at the top level.

At last year’s World Indoor Championships, the East Lothian bowler won gold in the mixed pairs, alongside Jason Banks, as well as a silver in the women’s singles.

So can she emulate her famous uncle and keep the family legacy of bowling success going for years to come?

“That sounds fantastic, it is some big footsteps to follow in,” said Riva. “If I can have half the career he has had, I will be delighted.”