KUALA LUMPUR: Bowling queen Sin Li Jane is determined to end the year on a high note after a season filled with record-breaking achievements.
Earlier, the 31-year-old clinched four titles on the PWBA Tour in the United States, including a historic win at the US Women's Open, and became the first Asian to be crowned the Tour's Player of the Year.
At the recent Asian Championships in Bangkok, Li Jane continued her winning streak, bagging gold medals in the women's all-events, masters, and doubles events, and a silver in the team event.
"It's been an incredible season — the proudest of my career," said Li Jane upon her return from Bangkok, where she led Malaysia to a record 17-medal haul at the Asian Championships.
"I'm looking forward to maintaining this momentum and aiming for even greater success.
"I still have the passion and desire to excel.
"The victories in the US and Bangkok were fantastic, and I'm hopeful for more before the year wraps up."
Meanwhile, Rafiq Ismail had an emotional week at the Asian Championships, where he won gold in the men's singles, trios, all-events and masters, along with a silver in the team event.
Rafiq's father was hospitalised with a kidney ailment during the singles competition, and shortly after, former Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) president Datuk Dr P. S. Nathan passed away.
"It was an emotional competition. I'm glad we gave our best," said Rafiq, who is a father to nine-month-old Yusuf.
"These victories are for my dad and my son.
"My father was admitted a day before the singles, and I wanted to make him proud."
Reflecting on his success, Rafiq credited his ability to stay grounded as a key factor.
"The biggest thing is not letting it get to my head.
"There's always pressure, but the experience I've gained helps me handle it, and I believe my teammates will soon have that same advantage."