It’s All About Keeping It Simple

29th May, Singapore: More than 150 youths and bowling enthusiasts gathered at Orchid Bowl at The Chevrons to pick up a thing or two from American pro, Tim Mack.

It was none other than, three-time world bowler of the year, Tim Mack who was here to conduct 2 bowling clinics for youths under SBF’s National Youth Development programme, U Bowling Club members and bowling enthusiasts.

For a whole hour or so, these youths listened attentively as Tim Mack shared his experience on lane play, physical fundamentals, spare strategies and mental game.

“It’s all about keeping it simple,” he explained to the youth bowlers on possessing strong mental game during any competition.

SBF National Youth Development Programme bowling coach - Samuel Ho’s sentiments are likewise. Samuel said: “If a bowler does too many things at games, in the end, he wouldn't be able to achieve what he had intended to.”Among these youths was Rena Liew, 12 who especially loved the sharing session. She expressed: “The session helped me to understand the game of bowling better and strategies used. It also allowed me to know more about Tim Mack and his training methods.”

After the sharing session, these youth bowlers had a chance to put what they have learnt into practice. On the lanes itself, Tim Mack assessed the techniques used and physical fundamentals of the bowlers as they took turns to bowl. He then advised the bowlers on their techniques and performance.

17 year-old national youth development programme bowler, Kenneth Ong shared: “The on-lane practice really helped me in my game play.”

“It made me realise that my mental game is not strong enough and Tim Mack also helped me identify my physical errors that I wasn’t aware of before.” Practising and improving on his skills is what Kenneth plans on doing to step up his game.Asked to share his views on youths now and then, he said: “Youths these days are better prepared and the talent here is growing exponentially. It’s only a matter of time before they start dominating.”

Apart from all the fun at the bowling clinics, his greatest achievement would be “to make a difference for the kids. I hope to come back to Singapore and to help with my knowledge and experience and also to assist in the programme.”

The bowling clinics today are held in conjunction with the 43rd Singapore International Open which is currently ongoing till 5 June 2010 at Orchid Bowl, Orchid Country Club.

Article written by Marissa of SingaporeBowling.