World Bowls appoints 31 ITOs for Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

World Bowls has appointed 31 International Technical Officials (ITOs) to officiate at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, including Allan Thornhill (England) as Chief Technical Official (CTO).

The ITO group represents eight countries from around the world, with six officials coming from host nation Scotland.

Technical Delegate for Glasgow 2026, Mark Cowan, said the group brings a strong mix of experience and development.

“There is a good blend of experience from previous Games, along with some ITOs attending their first Games as part of the ITO succession plan. Everyone is extremely excited to officiate the new format and feels very privileged that bowls has been included as one of the 10 sports.”

In the lead up to the Games, taking place from 23 July to 2 August, Cowan remains in regular contact with the organising committee through emails and virtual meetings across 12 functional areas.

“These areas include accommodation, transport, accreditation, technical officials, sport entries and catering,” he said.

“With the Games fast approaching, the main area I am working on is the venue itself and the field of play. This includes ensuring the construction of the portable rinks is progressing well, all equipment is supplied, and the layout of the field of play is set — including camera positions for broadcast and electronic scoreboards for players and spectators.”

“It’s a very busy time, but everything is coming together.”