KUALA LUMPUR: Rafiq Ismail is all pumped up ahead of his challenge in the upcoming World Championships in Las Vegas following his recent fine performance in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour.
Rafiq described his experience in the tour in Reno, Nevada as one that has made him feel like a true bowler.
On Friday, the 20-year-old completed his PBA World Series of Bowling Tour by representing the Rest of the World team that lost 226-213, 279-191 to the United States at the National Bowling Stadium in Reno.
"It has been a superb experience because this is my first time playing in the PBA Tour. Hopefully, I will get to play in the tour again next year," said Rafiq when contacted.
"My job is far from over, because I am now looking forward to the world meet this coming week. I feel this tour has boosted my confidence.
"To be quite honest, this tour has given me so much that I feel like a true bowler now. I feel like I'm one of those top bowlers too."
Rafiq was also the only Malaysian to qualify for the PBA World Championship where he lost to Australian Jason Belmonte in the opening round.
Compatriots Adrian Ang, Timmy Tan, Alex Liew, Rafiq, Syafiq Ridhwan Abdul Malek, Shalin Zulkifli and professional bowler Zulmazran Zulkifli all failed to make the cut.
Rafiq also made the top 16 cut for the PBA Cheetah Championship match play round.
On his target in the world meet, Rafiq said: "My maiden world meet in 2013 was not up to par.”
"In 2014, I skipped it due to my Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination.
"The format is similar to that of the Kuala Lumpur Sea Games and I'm looking forward to do well. My target is to bring home at least one medal."
Malaysia, under coach Holloway Cheah, will leave for Vegas on Monday. Competition begins on Friday.