KUALA LUMPUR: National No 1 women's doubles Chow Mei Kuan-Lee Meng Yean have finally broken their duck on the BWF World Tour when they clinched the Syed Modi International Championships title on Sunday.
In the final in Lucknow, India, the World No 19 saw off local favourites Ashwini Ponnappa-N.Sikki Reddy 21-15, 21-13.
Having wanting a good ending to the year, the title definitely comes as a timely boost for Mei Kuan-Meng Yean as they gear up for the Olympic qualifying period that starts in May.
In July, the Malaysian pair came close to winning their maiden crown this season but fell short in the final stage of the Russian Open.
"I am happy for Mei Kuan-Meng Yean for landing their first title this year.
"They have also proved that they really want a spot in the Olympics.
"As their coach, I will support and do whatever to help them.
"Having said that, we've got two top pairs (along with Vivian Hoo-Yap Cheng Wen) and there is still a long way to go before they can go on to beat world beaters," said national women's doubles head coach, Rosman Razak, when contacted.
Mei Kuan-Meng Yean pocketed US$11,850 (RM50,000) for their efforts while Ashwini-Sikki received US$5,700 (RM24,000).