UAE bowler tops qualifying table

8th April, Bangkok: UAE's Fuaad Al-Mas topped the Men's Open Masters qualifying table of the 34th MWA Thailand International Open underway at S.F. Strike Bowl Ngamwongwan while local seasoned campaigner, Gunnalada Aree of Thailand led the Ladies' Open standings. In the new format of qualifying round introduced at this year's championship which comprised of best 3 qualifying rounds of 3 games each, UAE's Fuaad Al-Mas posted consistent 675, 674 and 666 for a 9-game total of 2015 to lead the Men's Open Masters qualifying table.

PBA Denny's World Championship semifinalist and the Canon Cup 2008 runner-up, Andrew Frawley of Australia could have taken the lead if not for a poor 554 third attempt.. The Aussie had scorched the lanes with an opening 747 and a 690 in his second attempt to total 1991 to take up second spot.

UAE' Hussain Al-Suwaidi finished third with 1953 from 3 attempts of 676, 644 and 633. Meanwhile, newcomer, Rangsiman Thianhirun topped the local pool with 1996 and second overall with Surasak Manuwong second with 1985 and last year's ABF Tour Thailand leg champion, Somjed Kusonpithak third with 1974.

Whilst the overseas participants will arrive in the next two days, seasoned campaigner, Gunnalada Aree has taken top spot in the Ladies' Open Masters qualifying table with 1872. Gunnalada knocked down her best 3 attempts of 663, 605 and 604.

Sariya Chongvarin and Kamalasn Jonbumrung finished second and third positions in the table with 1867 and 1837 respectively. Only two ladies have completed at least 3 attempts in the overseas pool with the lead going to Sabeena Athica of India with 1693 and Rachell Lapig in second with 1570.

Qualifying continues through to Friday, April 11 and the Masters finals will be held over two days on April 12 and 13. The top 16 Asian men and top 16 Asian ladies will also qualify for the ABF Tour Thailand leg which will be held on April 14.

Photos courtesy of Thai Tenpin Bowling Association.