Karen Murphy Inducted into Commonwealth Games NSW Hall of Fame
It is well known within the bowling fraternity that Karen Murphy AM will be remembered as one of our all-time greatest players. Between her four Commonwealth Games medals, eight World Outdoor Championship medals and countless state and national titles, Karen knows what it takes to perform on the big stage. It’s this same drive and determination that will make her an invaluable asset to the current Jackaroos team as they embark on their Commonwealth Games campaign in Birmingham later this year. Karen is the Assistant Coach of the team and, together with coach Gary Willis, are preparing players for their own chance at Commonwealth Games glory.
While Birmingham 2022 is undoubtedly her highest priority at this time, Karen was able to attend the recent Commonwealth Games NSW Hall of Fame night where she was one of four new inductees along with Bradley McGee OAM (cycling), Jane Saville (race walking) and Patrick Murray (shooting). Commonwealth Games NSW is the peak State body for Commonwealth Games activity in NSW, and their recognition of Karen’s achievements amongst some of the best athletes in Australian history is a well-deserved honour.
Upon accepting her award from CEO Peter Tate and Chair Michael O’Mara, Karen took the opportunity to speak candidly about the reputation of bowls in the sporting world and how far it has come in the last few years. “The sport is working hard to change the stereotype, and I feel privileged to have played a part in that change and development. This recognition isn’t just for me, it’s for bowls.”
Karen went on to express her pride in being inducted into the Commonwealth Games NSW Hall of Fame, thanking everyone who has helped her along the way in what has been a phenomenal career. In closing, she dedicated the award to her mother who was present on the night, and her late father, acknowledging the positive impact they have had and continue to have on her life.
Bowls NSW congratulates Karen Murphy AM on her most deserving induction into the Commonwealth Games NSW Hall of Fame.
