Earning a world title and degree: Beth Riva scores her own path to success
Lawn Bowl Champion and Law student
Balancing the demands of elite sport with academic excellence is no small feat. For Beth Riva, a final-year law student at Edinburgh Napier University and a 2025 World Champion in mixed pairs lawn bowls, success has come from passion, perseverance, and the right support system. At just 22 years old, Beth’s recent victory at the Indoor Bowling World Championships – where she reached two finals and secured a world title – marks a defining moment in a career that has been steadily gaining momentum. “To get to two finals and come away with the world title was just like the stuff of dreams" Beth recalls.
But Beth’s story is about more than podium finishes; it's about how ambition on the green has flourished alongside academic dedication in the classroom. Pursuing a law degree at Edinburgh Napier University, she’s committed to a future that includes justice and public service – proving that champions come in many forms.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Napier,” she reflects. “My best experiences at university have been meeting new people, making new friends… and I’ve also really enjoyed the course. I’m going to be disappointed not to be back here next year – I’ve loved every minute of it”.
Balancing books and bowls: a Dual Career student
While lawn bowls is her passion, Beth’s academic goals are just as ambitious. To support her along the way has been Edinburgh Napier’s Dual Career Policy, a framework designed to help elite athletes thrive both in sport and in study. With tailored academic flexibility, personalised support, and a deep understanding of the pressures faced by student athletes, the policy has enabled Beth to succeed at the highest level without compromising her education.
The Dual Career ethos is simple: to maximise success in both arenas. It’s a philosophy that’s not only applicable to Edinburgh Napier’s renowned athletes but to the university’s coaches and officials striving for excellence in their disciplines. As Beth prepares to graduate and look ahead to the next chapter - whether in sport, law, or both – Edinburgh Napier University has given her the opportunity to excel wherever her ambitions take her.