Aisyah goes from south to north to strike first Sukma bowling gold for Perlis

Roll to glory: Nurul Aisyah Salleh in action during the women’s singles final. — MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Start

SUBANG JAYA: A change of state has led to a major change of fortunes for bowler Nurul Aisyah Salleh.

After two Malaysia Games (Sukma) appearances and a bronze medal to show for her efforts, Nurul finally attained her long-awaited gold in the women’s singles event yesterday - but by representing a different state this time.

Nurul had previously represented her home state of Johor at the two previous editions.

After taking a break from the sport due to Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations, she was unable to train with the Johor team.

Now competing for Perlis, Aisyah delivered a stunning performance at Sunway Megalanes to claim her maiden Sukma gold and, in the process, make history by securing Perlis’ first-ever bowling gold at the Games.

“I had to take the SPM, so during that time I stopped competing for a while and after that, I was unable to play for the team,” said Aisyah.

“I then received an offer from my former Johor coach, who was then coaching in Perlis. He gave me the opportunity to compete for Perlis and I took it.”

Nurul is hugged by her mother as her grandfather looks on.

It was the perfect stepping stone for Aisyah as it allowed her to return to competition, giving her the chance to chase the medal glory.

Aisyah knocked down 1,344 total pinfalls to clinch the crown, while Selangor’s Adania Mohd Redzwan settled for second with 1,306 at the Sunway Megalanes yesterday.

Perlis celebrated a double podium finish after Nur Alya Qaisara Noor Fazemil claimed bronze with 1,287.

Aisyah admitted that the competition was by no means easy, with the standings constantly changing and the final stages going down to the wire.

The win was even sweeter for Aisyah after she revealed that she suffered a lower back injury during the official practice sessions.

“I really didn’t expect to win. I just gave it my all because I had picked up a slight injury on the last day of training.

“I wasn’t focused on the scores either. I feel I’m able to perform better when I don’t look at the standings.’’