Bowler Stevenson dies two months after Glasgow gold

Commonwealth Games bowler Mary Stevenson has died just a couple of months after winning a gold medal for Scotland at Glasgow 2026, where her winning throw earned her the moniker Mary Queen of Shots.

Competing just a few weeks before her 74th birthday, Stevenson became the oldest member of Team Scotland and the oldest female gold medallist in her country's history as she won the Para Mixed Pairs B2-B3 alongside Robert Barr, Sarah Jane Ewing and Jim Aitken.

Bowls Scotland stated on Facebook: "Only last weekend, she was back competing for Scotland and in great form. It is difficult to believe she is no longer with us.

"We will remember the joy of that gold medal moment and the part Mary played in it. We will also remember the character and joy she brought on and off the green.

"Our thoughts are with her family, friends, club and team-mates at this heart-breaking time."

A retired chauffeur from Paisley, Stevenson only started playing bowls in 2013 at the age of 61, playing multiple times a week.

When her sight began to deteriorate, she thought she would have to give up the sport until she was introduced to the Blind Bowlers.

Commonwealth Games Scotland chief executive Jon Doig said: "I was privileged to witness Mary winning her gold medal in Glasgow this summer. She was an inspiration to so many and will be greatly missed."

Team Scotland chef de mission Elinor Middlemiss added: "Mary had a quiet determination about her and I think that played a big part in what she was able to achieve at Glasgow 2026.

"She was a delight to have around the team hotel during the Games and had such a kind and caring nature. To win gold alongside her team-mates was a fantastic moment for Mary and the whole team.

"Mary will be greatly missed by everyone at Team Scotland, but her personality and achievements will be remembered for many years to come."