Keith Spear and Bowlingball.com: Crafting a Bowling Ball for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee
Written By: bowlingball.com | Written On: Friday, June 15, 2012 | Updated On: Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee and a Bowlingball.com Milestone
Queen Elizabeth II just celebrated her 60th Year Anniversary as Monarch with the magnificent Diamond Jubilee Celebration, and bowlingball.com was incredibly fortunate to play a small but memorable role in this historic event. This journey began a year prior when the Queen selected two boroughs of London to visit during the Jubilee festivities. Among these was the borough of Bromley, a vibrant and historic community that quickly became the stage for an extraordinary collaboration.

The officials from Bromley reached out to bowlingball.com with an extraordinary request—to design a custom bowling ball for Queen Elizabeth II and her Diamond Jubilee Celebration. For Keith Spear, the CEO of bowlingball.com, this was not just an opportunity but an honor of the highest order. The challenge was immense, but so was the potential for a once-in-a-lifetime achievement. Keith and his team eagerly accepted the challenge, and the journey to create a masterpiece began.
The Design Process: A Royal Journey
Designing a bowling ball for one of the world’s most iconic figures was no simple task. The process was a blend of art, engineering, and diplomacy, requiring countless hours of work and the utmost attention to detail. Keith personally led the effort, working closely with his team and navigating the complex approval process with royal overseers. Over the course of the year, the design underwent no fewer than 30 revisions. Each redesign involved meticulous attention to symbolism, aesthetics, and tradition.

The royal overseers were deeply involved in every step, ensuring the final product reflected the grandeur and dignity of the Diamond Jubilee. Elements such as the Queen’s insignia, the Union Jack, and intricate patterns representing her six-decade reign were carefully incorporated. Keith’s commitment to excellence shone through as he worked tirelessly to meet the rigorous standards set by the royal family. The design was not just a bowling ball; it was a symbol of unity, celebration, and respect for a remarkable legacy.
A Royal Breakfast and the Unveiling at Bromley
On May 15, 2012, the day of the grand unveiling of the Pavilion Leisure Centre in Bromley, Keith Spear was invited to attend a private breakfast with Queen Elizabeth II and 99 other distinguished guests. This invitation was an extraordinary honor and a testament to the significance of the custom bowling ball project. Keith described the experience as surreal, a moment he would treasure forever. To be among the select few in the Queen’s presence, sharing stories and celebrating the Jubilee, was a privilege beyond words.

The breakfast was held in a beautifully adorned hall, with every detail reflecting the elegance and grandeur of the occasion. Keith found himself seated among prominent figures, including local leaders, royal officials, and cultural icons. As he sipped tea and enjoyed the lavish spread, Keith reflected on the journey that had brought him here—a journey of passion, perseverance, and creativity.
Later that day, the Pavilion Leisure Centre was officially unveiled, with Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh presiding over the ceremony. Amidst applause and admiration, the custom bowling ball was presented to Her Majesty. The ball, featuring exquisite images and symbols of the Diamond Jubilee, was a shining centerpiece of the event. Keith stood proudly among the dignitaries, knowing that his work had become part of history.
Symbolism and Craftsmanship
The custom bowling ball was more than just a functional item—it was a masterpiece of symbolism and craftsmanship. On one side, it featured the Queen’s emblem, surrounded by intricate designs representing her reign. On the other side, the Union Jack was displayed, signifying national pride and unity. The colors were vibrant, the details immaculate, and the overall effect breathtaking. Every element had been carefully chosen to honor the Queen and her Diamond Jubilee. The words bowlingball.com and designed by Keith Spear for Her Majesty The Queen were also engraved on the ball next to the unique serial number, ROYAL-1-70-QEII
The manufacturing process involved advanced techniques to ensure precision and durability. Bowlingball.com partnered with OnTheBallBowling, combining their expertise to create a product that was as functional as it was beautiful. From the selection of materials to the final polish, every step was executed with perfection in mind. The result was a bowling ball that not only met but exceeded the expectations of the royal overseers.
A Historic Collaboration
The collaboration between bowlingball.com and the borough of Bromley was a testament to the power of creativity and community. It brought together individuals from different backgrounds, united by a shared goal of celebrating an extraordinary occasion. The kind folks of Bromley, including Kay Coulton, Claire Korney, and Lorraine McQuillan, played an instrumental role in making this project a success. Their support and enthusiasm were invaluable, and bowlingball.com was proud to be part of such a dedicated team.
Reflections on a Once-in-a-Lifetime Honor
Looking back on the experience, Keith Spear described it as a pinnacle moment in his career. “To have the opportunity to create something for Her Majesty the Queen, and to be part of such a historic celebration, is an honor beyond anything I could have imagined,” he said. The journey was filled with challenges, but the rewards were immeasurable. Keith’s dedication to excellence and his ability to navigate the complexities of the project were key to its success.
The impact of this project extended far beyond the event itself. It highlighted the importance of art and craftsmanship in celebrating milestones, and it showcased bowlingball.com’s ability to create products that resonate with people on a profound level. For Keith and his team, it was a reminder of why they do what they do—to bring joy, inspiration, and a touch of magic to the world.
A Lasting Legacy
The custom bowling ball created for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee now holds a special place in history. It stands as a symbol of collaboration, creativity, and respect for tradition. For bowlingball.com, it was a defining moment—a chance to be part of something truly extraordinary. For the borough of Bromley, it was a source of pride and a highlight of the Jubilee festivities. And for Queen Elizabeth II, it was a unique and meaningful tribute to her remarkable reign.
As Keith Spear returned home, he carried with him not just memories of the event but a renewed sense of purpose. The experience had shown him the power of imagination and determination, and it had reaffirmed his belief in the importance of celebrating life’s milestones with passion and creativity. “This was more than a project,” Keith said. “It was a journey, a celebration, and a tribute to a legacy that will be remembered for generations.”