By MARK REY MONTEJO

Veteran players and promising youngsters compose the national bowling team that is set to compete in the 47th MWA-Singha Thailand International Open on July 25 to 29.

Singapore Open champion Zach Sales Ramin. (Thai Tenpin Bowling Association)

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According to consultant Joe Slowinski, the Thai tilt serves as a training ground for the national team which hopes to improve and gain more exposure as they look forward to the upcoming World Bowling Championship in October and the Asian Indoor and Martial Games in Bangkok next year.

The 17-year-old Zach Sales Ramin, who is fresh from a successful stints in the 2023 Asian Youth Tenpin Bowling Championship and the Singapore International Open, banners the squad along with Southeast Asian Games gold medalists Patrick Nuqui and Ivan Malig, medalists Dyan Coronacion and Rachelle Leon, women’s champion Lara Posadas-Wong, local star JP Macatula and Bacolod Open champ Grace Gella. 

Seasoned bowlers in the likes of Merwin Tan and Alexis Sy will also join the squad along with Slowinski and head coach Jojo Canare.

"Our bowlers have shown incredible dedication and determination throughout the process. Uniting our experienced veterans with young, talented bowlers will be a game-changer for our team dynamics. The Thai Open is a tough challenge, but we are well-prepared and ready to compete at the highest level.” Canare said.

More than 200 participants are expected to take part in the tourney which will be held at the Blu-O Rhythm & Bowl Ratchayothin. 

The tournament offers P560,000 for the men’s Open Division champion and P208,000 for the women's Open winner.