Strikes, Spares, and Smiles Across New Hampshire
Granite State Special Olympics Athletes Shine at the 2026 State Bowling Tournament.
September 30, 2026
Hundreds of Special Olympics New Hampshire athletes took to the lanes on September 26 as the 2026 State Bowling Tournament brought competition, friendship, and celebration to bowling centers across New Hampshire and Vermont. Athletes competed in both candlepin and ten-pin bowling, demonstrating determination, sportsmanship, and skill while representing their local programs with pride.
From first-time competitors to seasoned bowlers, athletes embraced the opportunity to challenge themselves, cheer on teammates, and celebrate one another’s accomplishments. Throughout the day, bowling centers were filled with excitement as athletes, coaches, families, and volunteers came together to make the tournament a memorable experience.
A Growing Tradition in Keene
One of the highlights of this year’s tournament was the continued partnership between Special Olympics New Hampshire and Keene State College Athletics.
For the second consecutive year, student-athletes from Keene State took the lead in organizing and running competition at Yankee Lanes in Keene. Student-athletes representing softball, men’s lacrosse, men’s ice hockey, men’s and women’s golf, and cross country/track and field volunteered throughout the day, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and a commitment to creating an exceptional experience for Special Olympics athletes.
From supporting competition logistics to welcoming athletes and keeping events running smoothly throughout the day, the student-athletes demonstrated a genuine commitment to inclusion and service. Their energy and passion were felt throughout the venue, creating meaningful connections and helping ensure every athlete felt celebrated and supported.
We are incredibly grateful to Keene State Athletics for their continued partnership and for showing what leadership through service looks like in action.
Thank You for Making State Bowling Possible
The State Bowling Tournament would not be possible without the incredible community that comes together to support our athletes.
Thank you to our host venues for welcoming Special Olympics New Hampshire athletes, coaches, families, and volunteers into their facilities. We are also grateful to the dedicated management teams for the time they put into planning and organizing competition day, ensuring athletes had an exceptional experience from start to finish.
Thank you to the volunteers who assisted with check-in, scorekeeping, awards, and countless other behind-the-scenes roles that kept competition running smoothly. We’re also grateful to our volunteer photographers for capturing the determination, excitement, and celebration that made the day so special.
A special thank you to the members of Law Enforcement and the Knights of Columbus who helped present awards and celebrate athlete achievements, as well as the family members, friends, and fans who filled the bowling centers with encouragement and support.
Most importantly, congratulations and thank you to our athletes. Your dedication, determination, and sportsmanship inspire us every day. Thank you for the effort you put into training, the courage you bring to competition, and the way you support and encourage one another on and off the lanes. We are proud to celebrate each of you and your accomplishments.
View Photos and Results
Relive the excitement of the day and celebrate the accomplishments of athletes across the state.