SINGAPORE - A unique initiative - the Bowling Cares and 20 Strikes Challenge - led by Singapore Bowling Federation (SBF) vice-president Valerie Teo and co-driven by two former national bowlers Tan Zhi Qiang and Wong Yi Quan - has raised over $40,000 for the Autism Resource Centre (Singapore).

Numerous coaches and national keglers, including the likes of SEA Games champions New Hui Fen, Shayna Ng, Bernice Lim and sisters Cherie and Daphne Tan, set out to complete 20 strikes in 20 minutes.

Their attempts were filmed and shared on the association's Facebook page with links provided to encourage the local community to help raise money for the charity.

So far, nearly 80 coaches and keglers have participated in the challenge and surpassed their target of raising $30,000. They are now aiming to reach a new target of $50,000 by this weekend.

The project is part of A Very Special Walk (AVSW), the signature fundraising event of Autism Resource Centre (Singapore). The project, which has three categories - the 20km Run, 20,000 steps walk and 20 special challenge - is being carried out virtually this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Sign-up fees for AVSW 2020 are $20 and registration ends on July (July 26). Those who wish to donate directly to the cause can do so till Aug 31.

"I have colleagues who have children who have benefited from programmes and initiatives that have come out of the good work done to create an inclusive society and in support of autism", said Teo.

She also told The Strait Times that she has been "supporting the efforts to help raise awareness and support for autism in Singapore for the last 10 years".

More information on the project can be found here.