The Irish Bowls Federation (IBF) is a federated organisation based in Larne, Northern Ireland. It was established in late 2013 with the goal of developing all disciplines of the sport of bowls in Northern Ireland. The IBF is made up of four bowling governing bodies: the Irish Bowling Association (IBA), the Association of Irish Indoor Bowling (AIIB), the Irish Women's Bowling Association (IWBA), and the Irish Women's Indoor Bowling Association (IWIBA).
The IBF aims to create a positive and inclusive sports culture by providing more sporting opportunities for people of all abilities. They strive to build a stronger and more diverse bowling community, with a particular focus on promoting the sport to individuals with disabilities. The organisation holds assessment days and taster events to encourage participation from para and visually impaired athletes, with the goal of having athletes represent Northern Ireland at prestigious international events.
The IBF is committed to developing and promoting the sport of bowls in Northern Ireland. They have a comprehensive strategy in place that outlines their plans and initiatives for the future. Through their various programmes and events, the IBF aims to engage and support bowling clubs across the region.
One notable achievement of the Irish Bowls Federation is their success in international competitions. They have had athletes win medals at events such as the Atlantic Rim Championships and the European Championships. Additionally, Neil Booth serves as the High Performance Coach for the IBF, guiding and mentoring athletes to achieve their full potential.
The IBF website serves as a valuable resource for members and the wider bowling community. It features news updates, including announcements of upcoming events and reports on recent competitions. The website also provides information on the officers, policies, and development calendar of the IBF, as well as resources for umpires and coaches affiliated with the organisation.
In summary, the Irish Bowls Federation (IBF) is a federated organisation based in Larne, Northern Ireland, consisting of the Irish Bowling Association, the Association of Irish Indoor Bowling, the Irish Women's Bowling Association, and the Irish Women's Indoor Bowling Association. The IBF is dedicated to developing the sport of bowls in Northern Ireland and creating a positive and inclusive culture around the sport. They organise various events, provide resources for umpires and coaches, and support bowling clubs across the region. With their focus on inclusivity and their success in international competitions, the IBF is a leading organisation in the world of bowls in Northern Ireland.