PETALING JAYA: National bowler Rafiq Ismail paid tribute to late Datuk Dr P.S. Nathan after striking down another gold and one silver to his collection in the Asian Championships in Bangkok yesterday.
Rafiq and Co had been down after finding out about former Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) president Nathan’s passing on the eve of the men’s team and All-Events at the Blu–O Rhythm and Bowl and decided to step up their game.
The team had finished fifth after the first block of three games on Sunday but yesterday, they showed character to fight for the gold in the remaining three games.
They came close but eventually finished second behind Singapore.
Rafiq and the others – Syafiq Ridhwan Abdul Malek, Hafiz Zainuddin, Tun Ameerul Hakim Hasnul Azam and Izz Naqiuddin Putera Islahuddin rolled down 6,423 pins, just 26 pins behind the Singaporeans led by Darren Ong.
Hong Kong took the bronze with 6,237 pins.
Rafiq however, showed he is the most consistent bowler by winning the All-Events gold, making it his third in the tournament. He had earlier won the men’s singles and trios gold medals.
The 27-year-old Rafiq said Nathan had always put the interest of the bowlers first.
“We had hoped to win this team event for him, but it was not meant to be. Singapore were just consistent from start to finish despite our strong comeback,” said Rafiq.
“I’ve been with the national team for 10 years now and throughout my days, Dr Nathan had always taken good care of us. It’s sad news that he is no longer with us.
“I last saw him during the Malaysian Open. He had aged and had difficulty breathing. He had left us but his legacy will be remembered forever.”
Meanwhile, Rafiq commended his teammates for showing a good fight in the team event.
“We had the chance as I told them that nothing was impossible and tried to catch up but it was not enough. Singapore maintained their game. There is a tinge of sadness because our main goal was the team gold.
“But we can take heart because all the boys gave a valiant performance in the second block. One or two were under pressure but we minimised the spares. I’m proud of the fighting spirit.
He was happy that he added his third gold through the All-Events yesterday, but his mission is far from over as he is eyeing the Masters gold.
Rafiq amassed a total of 5,354 pins to finish top in the All-Events after 23 games and teammate Hafiz made is a grand day by coming second with 5,303 pins.
“I won four golds in the last Asian meet in Hong Kong. I want to equal that. The job is not done. I want to end this tournament on a high.”
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
