Born: 1978 (Islington, London, England)
Biography:
Shalin Zulkifli, born on March 28, 1978, in Islington, London, England, is a highly accomplished and respected Malaysian professional ten-pin bowler. Throughout her career, she has competed and emerged victorious in numerous national and international tournaments, propelling her to become one of Malaysia and Asia’s most prominent figures in the world of professional bowling.
Zulkifli made history during the 2001 World Tenpin Masters event when she became the first female champion of this prestigious competition. Displaying her exceptional skills and unwavering determination, she defeated Finland’s Tore Torgersen in the finals, proving her dominance in the sport. Notably, in 2004, Zulkifli’s exceptional contribution to the sport was recognized as she was inducted into the International Bowling Hall of Fame, solidifying her status as a bowling legend.
Her talents have also taken her to the United States, where she achieved remarkable success. Zulkifli was a quarterfinalist at the 2008 US Women’s Open and competed in the 2008-09 PBA Women’s Series, showcasing her capabilities on an international stage.
In the Southeast Asian Games, Zulkifli has achieved unparalleled success, making her a true icon in the bowling community. With an astounding 20 gold medals to her name, she has undoubtedly cemented her place as the most successful bowling athlete in the history of the games. Her achievements have not only brought pride to Malaysia but have also inspired a new generation of aspiring athletes.
Born in North Islington and raised in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Zulkifli discovered her passion for bowling at the tender age of 9. Her dedication and exceptional talent led her to join the national bowling team in the late 1980s. Her outstanding performance on the lanes did not go unnoticed, as she was named Selangor’s Most Promising Sportsgirl of the Year in 1991. In 1994, Zulkifli made history as the youngest player and the first-ever Malaysian to win the Ladies Open of the Kent Malaysian All-Stars, further establishing her status as a rising star in the bowling world.
In 1997, Zulkifli added another remarkable feat to her list of achievements by becoming the first woman to bowl a perfect 300 in the QubicaAMF Bowling World Cup. This accomplishment solidified her standing as a trailblazer for women in the sport and showcased her extraordinary skill and precision.
Beyond her sporting achievements, Zulkifli holds a degree in Sports Science, specializing in Sports Psychology and Coaching. This knowledge and expertise have undoubtedly contributed to her success on the lanes, allowing her to understand the mental aspects of the game and guide others in reaching their full potential.
Currently, Zulkifli owns and operates a Tenpin Bowling Alley at The Curve, a prominent shopping mall located in Mutiara Damansara. Her influence on the sport extends beyond her own accomplishments, as she continues to inspire and support aspiring athletes in pursuing their bowling dreams.
After an illustrious 28-year-long international bowling career, Zulkifli retired from the national team, leaving an indelible mark on the sport both in Malaysia and across the globe. Her achievements and contributions have rightfully earned her numerous accolades and recognition throughout her career. She has been honored with the Malaysian Sportswoman Award multiple times (1994, 1996, 1997, 2001, and 2002), highlighting her exceptional talent and exceptional impact on Malaysian sports.
Zulkifli’s success is also evident in her numerous national championships, including the Malaysian National Champion titles in 1996, 2001, 2002, and 2003. She has been recognized with the prestigious Malaysian Olympian Award in 1994 and 1999, solidifying her standing as a role model for aspiring athletes across the nation.
Her dominance in the bowling world extended beyond her national achievements, as she was ranked as the Asian No. 1 bowler in 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2004. Additionally, Zulkifli was bestowed with the International Bowler of the Year award in 2002, solidifying her position as one of the world’s premier athletes in her field.
In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the sport, Zulkifli was inducted into the International Bowling Hall of Fame in 2004, further solidifying her status as a true legend of bowling.
Awards:
– Malaysian Sportswoman Award (1997, 1996, 1994, 2001 & 2002)
– Malaysian National Champion (1996, 2001, 2002 & 2003)
– Malaysian Olympian Award (1994 & 1999)
– Asian No. 1 Rank (2000, 2001, 2002 & 2004)
– International Bowler of the Year (2002)
– International Bowling Hall of Fame Inductee (2004)
– Kent Malaysian All-Stars – Ladies Open Champion 1993
Shalin Zulkifli’s remarkable achievements, trailblazing spirit, and dedication to her sport have not only brought her personal success but have also left an indelible mark on the history of women’s bowling. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, illustrating the power of perseverance, talent, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.