Persistence paid off. After joining a blind bowling club in Virginia in 1986, Marie began competing more seriously. Her biggest win came in 1989 at a national side tournament. “I barely made the cut, then bowled the best series of my life.” She advanced to the finals, tying her opponent in regulation play. A nerve-wracking roll-off followed. “He threw a strike. I threw a strike. Then I got a 9-10 split — and picked it up. That was the game- winner.” That victory remains one of her proudest moments. “Winning that championship jacket — that was my best bowling memory,” she says. In 2002, Marie represented the U.S. at the first international blind tenpin championship in Finland, bringing home medals in every category and a team gold. It was a proud milestone in a career defined by determination and love for the game. Despite her achievements, Marie has faced challenges too — skepticism about her abilities because she is partially sighted, difficulties with fundraising for competitions, and the ongoing struggle to find accessible transportation and accommodations. “People don’t always take me seriously,” she explains. “But I don’t let that stop me. I do what I can do, and I keep going.” Today at Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights, Marie is still going strong — bowling in local leagues and swimming in competitions across the country. Over Memorial Day weekend, she
competed in the American Blind Bowling Association tournament and bowled a 701 series handicap. Her team also took fourth place at the State Special Olympics. In swimming, she recently earned silver medals in the 400m and 800m freestyle, gold in the 1500m freestyle, and a team gold in the 4x50 medley relay. When she’s not competing, Marie enjoys fitness drumming, going to the gym, and walking outdoors when the weather is nice. “Nowhere is perfect,” she says, “but I love it here. The residents and staff are very friendly.” Her outlook remains as inspiring as ever. “I’m blessed,” Marie says. “There are people worse off than me. I can do a lot on my own. I’m so thankful I can walk.” Her advice to anyone facing a new challenge? “Go for it! You’ve got to practice. If you do it to the best of your ability and finish, you’ve won.” Marie Van Liere may not always take home the gold, but her joyful determination, resilience, and refusal to be counted out make her a true champion — on the lanes, in the pool, and in life.
CEDARHURST SENIOR LIVING | SUMMER FLOURISH 2025 19
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