KUALA LUMPUR – With two consecutive titles and four podium finishes in a row (2016-2019), bowler Natasha Roslan was a star of the National Championships before Covid-19 caused the tournament to be cancelled for two years (2020-2021).
After struggling to deliver her best in the last two editions, Natasha is determined to make amends this Tuesday by returning to the podium and ending the year on a high note.
The reigning world champion has every reason to be optimistic, especially given her outstanding form of late.
At the Asian Championships in Bangkok last month, she secured one gold (women’s doubles), two silvers (women’s trios and women’s team of five), and a bronze (women’s masters).
She followed this up by winning three gold medals and one silver for Selangor at the Interstate Championships last week.
It was the 28-year-old’s best performance in the tournament to date, and she is keen to maintain this momentum.
By virtue of winning the women’s All-Events gold at the Interstate Championships, Natasha automatically qualifies for the top 18 National Championships women’s open final.
Natasha finished third in 2018 and second in 2019.
“Before Covid, I did well in the National Championships, but the last two years have not been great. In fact, last year was my worst, when I finished third from last (15th).
“However, my strong showing at the Interstate Championships has motivated me to try and end the year on a positive note.
“The Nationals will be my last tournament of the year. Doing well will set a good tone for the new season.
“Physically and mentally, I am prepared and hope to maintain this momentum moving forward,” she told Scoop.
Natasha also shared her excitement about major events next year, including the Bangkok SEA Games and the World Championships in Hong Kong.
The National Championships began with qualifying rounds on Saturday, and the finals and stepladder rounds for the men’s and women’s open will be held on Tuesday. – October 6, 2024