Commonwealth Games 2026: Wales clinch dramatic Para-bowls bronze

It was a third medal for Thomas who was part of the squad that won bronze on the Gold Coast in 2018 and silver in Birmingham four years later.

The former primary school head teacher from Bridgend took up bowls in 2014 after losing her sight and within two months had won her first Welsh title.

“You want to come and compete and come away with a medal and this whole experience has been completely different because the set-up’s different,” said Thomas.

“I’ve never been in this sort of environment where we’re playing indoors in an arena. The whole format is different and been a bit more tense.

“I didn’t think I was going to like it, but it’s exciting and the crowd participation has been better, so I’m just as delighted I’ve got another medal.”

Thomas was in the celebrations with her faithful guide dog Yoko, who will be eight next week.

“She’s an absolutely amazing dog,” said Thomas.

“I wouldn’t be able to manage something like this without her because you know she’s just so calm.

“If you do get tense, a little cuddle with her is brilliant but she copes with everything.”

Her partnership with James brought fresh momentum after the pair claimed gold at the first-ever Para-bowls European Championships in 2024.

James, now 34, was diagnosed with a eye condition called stargardt when he was 14 and his vision has deteriorated in recent years.

He is now celebrating a medal in his first Games after only taking up the sport three years ago and delivered when it mattered.

“As my brother has told me, pressure is for tyres,” said James.

“It was really hard-fought game and Julie kept her head when mine was starting to go.

“This brought me back down to where I needed to be with some words of wisdom from John and Jamie helped us stay calm and composed.

“Luckily that last final ball paid off for us.”