The group, who boasts a combined 25 years of competition at the annual event, returned home with a total of four medals.

Erin Constable collected gold in the E grade women’s singles, while Garth Hutchison snared bronze in the B grade triples.

Jennifer McMahon picked up another two bronze – in the B grade women’s singles and B grade triples.

Volunteer carer Honor Minchin said it was a great effort by the three athletes.

“More than 500 bowlers participate at the championships – and there were 2100 entries,” she explained.

“That figure grows every year, too.

“They come from all over Australia.

“Every state and territory is represented.

“Over the years, Erin, Garth and Jennifer have competed at places such as Rockhampton, Hobart, Canberra, Adelaide and Brisbane; everywhere except Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

“So, they look forward to the event.

“And, to win four medals – in elite company – is a massive achievement.”

Although they represented the Singleton Disabled Ten Pin Bowlers at the Rooty Hill tournament, Hutchison hails from Aberdeen, Constable is from Denman and McMahon lives in Muswellbrook.

But, that [rep] base could change in the near future.

“A new bowling alley opening in Muswellbrook is a great thing for Erin, Garth and Jennifer,” Minchin said.

“Hopefully, they can line up for the town in 2018.

“In fact, they were the only Hunter Valley bowlers at the National Disability Championships.”

Minchin said the benefits of the sport were endless.

“It’s something they can do themselves,” she told the Chronicle.

“Plus, tenpin bowling covers all disabilities, whether you’re blind or you’re an amputee.

“They don’t need someone holding their hands.

“I know in the case of Erin, Garth and Jennifer, they also form life-long friendships – and that’s terrific for them.”