PETALING JAYA: National bowlers competing in the Asian Youth Championships in Hong Kong are bracing for a baptism of fire when the competition starts on Tuesday with the singles event.
Except for Chong Jun Foo, who competed in the World Youth Championships in Bangkok last year, it will be the first high-level tournament for the rest of them.
The others in the boys’ team are Ahmad Muaz Mohd Fishol, Jonathan Ding Sagan and Wan Nadzmi Fikri Mohd Faisal.
Victoria Chin, Nerosha Keligit, Faten Najihah Ahmad Faik and Nora Lyana Nastasia Norakmal make up the girls’ team.
Team manager Maradona Chok said his charges’ inexperience could be an advantage given their desire to succeed.
“They are anxious about competing ... there’s no doubt about it. I can see the fire in them to succeed. They are taking the tournament very seriously and have all pledged to give their best,” said Maradona.
Coached by Steven Teng and Foong Tak Meng, the team have also brought along sports psychologist How Peck Ngor from the National Sports Institute (NSI).
“Every night, the bowlers will have a routine session with our psychologist to ensure they have the mental edge over their opponents,” said Maradona.
The Malaysians took to the lanes yesterday for the official practice. Competition will run until Saturday that culminates with the Masters event. Malaysia missed the championships in Egypt last year due to the political turmoil in the country. In the 2010 championships in Kuwait, Malaysia managed to win three bronze medals.
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