Vivian Berkeley

Vivian Berkeley, born on August ninth, nineteen forty-one, is a celebrated Canadian bowls player renowned for her remarkable achievements in the sport of lawn bowling, particularly for the blind and visually impaired. Over her illustrious career spanning from nineteen ninety-four to two thousand fifteen, she amassed an impressive total of sixty medals, including twenty-two consecutive Provincial Gold medals and twenty-one National Gold medals, of which sixteen were straight victories. Her international accolades include seventeen medals from eight different countries, showcasing her prowess with two Gold, ten Silver, and five Bronze medals.

Berkeley's contributions to the sport extend beyond her personal achievements; she played a pivotal role in promoting and developing lawn bowls for the blind and visually impaired both in Canada and internationally. Her dedication to the sport has left a lasting impact, inspiring many athletes to pursue their passion despite challenges.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions and achievements, Vivian was inducted into the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame on November seventh, twenty twenty-one. The ceremony took place at the Fairmont Royal York in downtown Toronto on October twentieth, twenty twenty-two, where an honorary plaque bearing her name and portrait was unveiled. Additionally, she was honored with inductions into the Waterloo Region Hall of Fame on April twenty-four, twenty twenty-two, the Ontario Lawn Bowls Association Hall of Fame on April twenty-eight, twenty twenty-three, and the Glace Bay Old Town Hall Museum on June thirteenth, twenty twenty-three, further solidifying her legacy.

Vivian's philosophy as an athlete emphasizes the importance of year-round physical training and mental preparation. She believes that persistence and dedication are essential for success, and that athletes must embrace both victory and defeat while facing new challenges head-on. This mindset has guided her throughout her career and continues to inspire others in the sporting community.