KUALA LUMPUR: Muhamad Hairul Miran’s decision to focus on tenpin bowling after trying out numerous sports paid dividends today when he took the mixed singles TPB1 (blindness) gold at the Kuala Lumpur Asean Para Games (Para KL2017).
He scored a commendable 919 pinfalls to emerge the champion at the Sunway Mega Lanes, a distant 202 pins ahead of Thailand’s V. Tangpoolpun in second place.
K. Kietkongtawee, also from Thailand, completed the podium on 686.
Hairul, who lost his vision in an accident 15 years ago, admitted that it took him time to finally settle on bowling.
“After the accident in 2002, I attempted to pick myself up by trying out a number of sports, including the javelin. I first started bowling in 2010,” said the 30-year-old.
“Honestly, I feel that bowling is a very challenging sport especially for those of us who cannot see. Technique is very important.
“I am grateful that all the hard work I have put into training has paid off. I could only managed a bronze at the Singapore games (2015), so this definitely makes up for that.”
Hairul admitted that he felt nervous going up against the Thai duo but gained confidence as the competition progressed.
“I used my experience to pull through. I would like to thank the coaches, National Sports Council, my family and all Malaysians who have supported us.”