CEDAR CITY, Utah (June 4, 2026) - The Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games programming has been changed and adjusted over the years, but through it all, Adaptive Bowling has remained a consistent staple. On June 3, 31 athletes took to the lanes of the Cedar Bowling Center to take their opportunity to compete.

The annual Adaptive Bowling event gives individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities an opportunity to participate in the Games through an event of their own.

Among these bowlers are some of USG's most seasoned veterans, including Nina Aston, who has participated in every Adaptive Bowling since she moved to Cedar City in 1998. Her collection of medals has grown significantly over the years, and she added two more to the stack in 2026.

"I've been here a long time," Aston shared. "It's so fun. We played singles, had our lunch break, and then just got done doing our doubles. My score was 163."

While Aston has been flashing her bowling talents for some time, RJ Rowley has seen Adaptive Bowling from an outside perspective for nearly as long. Rowley began working at the Cedar Bowling Center in 2003 and has seen the tradition carried out across the years.

"They come out, and they enjoy bowling," Rowley said. "They're usually out here two to three times a week, even outside of Summer Games. Their faces when they get medals are awesome."

Between Aston, Rowley, and Bowling Sport Coordinator Kathy Jones, nobody can remember a time when Adaptive Bowling wasn't one of USG's most beloved events, and each is certain it will continue to be a staple of the Games.

The consistent success of the sport has contributed to growing opportunities for people with physical and intellectual disabilities, including a three-year partnership between Special Olympics Utah and Southern Utah University to host the Special Olympics Utah Summer Games in Cedar City.

Next Up

On Friday, June 5, USG will hold their Block Party, presented by KSL 5 TV from 5-8 p.m. and their Opening Ceremony, presented by State Bank of Southern Utah in Eccles Coliseum at 8:30 p.m. Tickets to the Olympic-style ceremony are on-sale at tbirdtickets.com.

Teams and individuals interested in registering for the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games can visit utahsummergames.org.

Photos by Shania Hopkins: