Wu bowls over Hong Kong's tenpin team
When did you start bowling, and who in troduced you to the sport?
I started when I was eight years old. That summer holiday, my sister suggested we try bowling, and our whole family went together. After that, my father and I were interested in bowling, and went very often. My interest gradually increased.
When, and how, did you en ter the Hong Kong bowling team?
I entered the Hong Kong team at the age of 13. I participated in the Hong Kong team selection organised by the Hong Kong Tenpin Bowling Association and I was selected in the competition.
At the beginning, I played just for fun. If I got a high score I would be delighted.
How does it feel to be in the Hong Kong team?
I am really happy because I have the chance to participate in competitions outside Hong Kong and some international games.
It is very exciting to other players in action. It is a real eye-opener.
Why do you love bowling so much?
It gives me a sense of satisfaction. It is challenging, too. When I see other players get higher scores than me, I work harder to outdo them.
Do you have any unforgetta ble experiences from interna tional competitions?
In the Hong Kong International Open 1999, I was injured during the tournament. Maybe I played too much and too hard. I could not attend the final, which I regretted.
At the beginning, I thought the pain was because of fatigue and I would be alright. But when I went on playing, the pain got more serious. I felt pain even with a slight touch.
How long did the recovery take? Did you learn anything from the injury?
It took about two to three months. Afterwards, I knew I had to protect myself better. I had to learn how to prevent injury.
What have you learned from bowling?
Through bowling, I have learned not to give up when I fail, and not to be conceited when I win.
In addition to that, I have to keep pushing myself.
If you do not improve when others do, you will be left behind.
How do you push yourself to improve?
Practise, practise and practise. And searching for a better way to improve my skills.
Would you like to be a full- time athlete?
Yes. If I get the chance to participate in the Asian Games next year, I may take a year off from my studies to prepare.
How did your family respond when you told them you were considering becoming a full- time athlete?
My parents think studying is more important than bowling. I think study and bowling are both important. I cannot distinguish which is more important.
What is the highest score you had in one game?
300 [full marks]. I made it once in a local competition. I got 299 several times and 280 something in some international competitions.
Do you want to be the next Sunny Hui Cheung-kwok?
I hope I could be as strong as he is. Sunny taught me many things in bowling.
Sometimes he would share his experience with me - teach me how to handle competition situations.
What do you think about your performance?
It is quite good, but it is not the best yet. My performance sometimes is not consistent. I cannot perform as well as during practise.
What is your goal in the near future?
To enter the first five or three positions in the Asian-Pacific Games in May.
And I hope I can qualify for the Asian Games.
Name: Wu Siu-hong
Birthday: October 22, 1984
Birthplace: Hong Kong
Main sport: Tenpin bowling
Occupation: Student
Wu Siu-hong began bowling at the age of eight, and has become recognised as the most talented young bowler in the Hong Kong Tenpin Bowling Team. After he reached adult standard, his coach appointed Wu to that division (above 23-year-old), despite his being only 16. He is tipped to have a chance of becoming the next Sunny Hui Cheung- kwok.
Like other student athletes, Wu struggles to maintain a balance between sports and academic studies.
Graphic: YPSPORGLO
