Greatness awaits Aiman as he treads path of national legends

PETALING JAYA: Youngster Mohd Aiman Syahin Sulaiman (pic) is on track to follow in the footsteps of several bowling greats who made their mark after capturing the national title at a young age.

On Sunday, the 19-year-old Aiman emerged as the new national champion after defeating top seed Megat Zaqrul Haikal Megat Zairudin of Penang in a thrilling final at the Sunway Megalanes.

The title was decided through a tie-breaker (49–48) after both bowlers were locked in the stepladder finals. Aiman edged Zaqrul 256–242 in the first game, but the Penangite roared back to force a 279–279 tie in the second.

Aiman now joins the ranks of Adrian Ang and Rafiq Ismail, who both won the national title at 18 before going on to make their mark on the world stage.

Meanwhile, Datuk Shalin Zulkifli still holds the record as the youngest national champion, having captured the women’s title at just 14.

Aiman hopes this victory marks the beginning of greater things in his bowling career.

“Honestly, it’s an honour to be mentioned alongside bowlers like Adrian Ang and Rafiq Ismail,” said Aiman.

“They’ve been my inspiration since I started bowling, and to achieve something they did at my age feels really special.

“It reminds me that age doesn’t define what you can achieve, but hard work and focus do.”

Although Aiman is not part of the SEA Games squad to Thailand in December this year, he is determined to break into future major tournaments.

“I believe my current form shows that I’m moving in the right direction,” said Aiman.

“There’s still a lot to learn and improve, but I’m working hard to reach that elite level.

“If I stay consistent, keep my focus, and continue improving both mentally and physically, I believe I can earn a spot in the elite set-up in the future.

“That’s the goal – to keep progressing and represent Malaysia at the highest level.

“I may not be in the SEA Games team this time, but that only motivates me to make the cut next time.”