PETALING JAYA − Two 18-year-olds stole the show in the boys’ and girls’ open category in the 21st Storm Under-22 Junior All-Stars Bowling Championships at Sunway Mega Lanes yesterday.
They both couldn’t believe their luck and they both have one goal − to be called up to join the national team.
In the boys’ category, national youth kegler Megat Zaqrul Haiqal Megat Zairudin said he was “blown away” by how effortlessly he eased past senior bowler Hafiz Zainuddin 258-210, 201-187 in the final.
“This win is very meaningful for me after such a long time with no tournament (due to the Covid-19 pandemic). I am so happy that − even after two years of rest − I could still raise my game and beat a senior player,” Megat said.
The Penangite admitted that his goal is to further improve his performance for the 2022 Malaysia Games (Sukma) and be called up to join the national squad one day.
In the girls’ category, Malaysia may have unearthed a new diamond in Sabah teenager Intan Qistina Tamring after she surprised even herself with a sublime performance in the final to overcome Perak’s Nor Baitul Ayu Atisya 175-169 for her biggest crown to date.
“I am happy… I did not expect to win after two years of inactivity,” said the UiTM Kota Kinabalu student in reference to the fact that no tournaments were held in the last two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Intan, who will represent Sabah in Sukma next year, also hopes that she will be given a chance to represent the national squad one day.
While Megat Zaqrul pocketed RM10,000, Intan took home RM6,000. They each also received a trophy after being crowned champions in their respective categories. – Bernama, December 20, 2021
