S. Koreans too good for S'pore women bowlers, twice

From left: Shayna Ng, Cherie Tan and New Hui Fen finished second in the trios event at the World Bowling Women’s Championships. Tan was second in the singles. PHOTO COURTESY OF SINGAPORE BOWLING FEDERATION

Singapore's women bowlers had two shots at glory in Abu Dhabi yesterday but were outgunned each time by South Korea.

Cherie Tan and Co ended up settling for silver in the individual and trios competitions at the World Bowling Women's Championships (WBWC).

In the singles final, Tan proved no match for Jeon Eun Hee, posting 189 pinfalls to the Korean's total of 279. Nevertheless, the Singaporean was satisfied with her performance.

"It was disappointing that I didn't come back with the gold, but I'm still happy about a silver," said the 26-year old, who scooped her first-ever individual medal at these championships.

"I didn't expect much, just to focus on the progress of the game. The opponent (Jeon) bowled really well and she deserved to win."

Tan's previous best achievement at this tournament came when she won a silver in the team event in the 2011 edition in Hong Kong.

She also had no luck in the trios final later in the day. The Singaporean trio of Tan, Shayna Ng and New Hui Fen fell 594-695 to Son Hye Rin, Kim Jin Sun and Baek Seung Ja.

Singapore coach Clara Lau said: "The team did well and I'm happy with the performance. The Koreans put in a very good showing and deserved to win both golds.

"Looking forward, we want to focus on our performance day to day. As long as we do our best, the outcome will take care of itself."

Despite the narrow misses, all is not lost for the Singaporeans as the doubles competition begins today.

Tan will pair up with 2011 WBWC singles bronze medallist Ng, New will join Jazreel Tan, while Joey Yeo will combine with Cherie's sister Daphne.

The team event is scheduled from tomorrow to Sunday.

The World Bowling Women's Championships take place every two years. This year's tournament features 30 countries competing for honours.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on December 10, 2015, with the headline S. Koreans too good for S'pore women bowlers, twice. Subscribe