Gillian aims to impress at national selection, resumes hunt for rankings points
KUCHING: National youth bowler Gillian Lim Siew Giok is looking for a strong start to the new season at the national women’s team selection to be held at Sunway Megalanes from March 25 to 29.
The 24-year-old is aiming for a top four finish to show that she is ready for the challenge at the upcoming 2nd Sonic International Classic in Singapore.
In addition, the top four bowlers will be fully funded by the Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress to compete in the April 18-22 tournament while others will have to pay for their own expenses.
Gillian expects a tough battle at the selection but she remains determined to make the cut.
“Our first international meet this year will be the Sonic International Classic.
“We need to undergo the selection and my target is the top four finish,” said the Miri-born bowler who is in the national Podium Programme.
Now ranked 14th in the Asian Bowling Federation (ABF) rankings, Gillian said she needs to participate in more ABF events to improve her rankings.
“I will be going all out to do my best in every competition that I am participating and try to compete in events that offer ranking points.
“I always emphasise on my basic knowledge on the game and try to hit the pins accurately and in synchronism,” she added.
Gillian did well in national and international events last year where she bagged the trios silver at the 26th Asian tenpin Bowling Championship, Women’s Open bronze at 47th MWA Singha Thailand International Open, women’s team silver at IBF World Bowling Championships, Women’s Open gold and Combine Division fifth place at Pesta Bowling Terbuka Kuala Lumpur and Gen Z bronze at 23rd Storm International Junior All-Stars Bowling Championship.
She is currently in the national squad with Sin Li Jane, Natasha Roslan, Syazwani Sahar, Esther Cheah, Siti Safiyah Amirah Abdul Rahman and Nora Lyana Nastasia Norkamal.
As one of the youngest team members, Gillian said she derived her inspiration from her more experienced teammates.
“They are more experienced and they can withstand immense pressure under the most crucial moments and I will learn from them and treat every competition as a training ground.
“In this way, I can avoid giving myself too much pressure.
“So far, I have gained good experience from competing in more international events and I aim to become a better bowler,” she said.