Remembering Auntie Shirley for putting Malaysia on a roll
KUALA LUMPUR: To a teenage Shalin Zulkifli, she was “Auntie Shirley”, the reassuring senior beside whom she felt safe.
Shirley Chow, a pioneering figure in Malaysian women's tenpin bowling, passed away at the age of 76. Her legacy includes medals won for Malaysia and contributions to nurturing younger bowlers. Described by those close to her as a reassuring senior figure and a fighter who maintained a smile, Shirley's achievements include a National Sportswoman of the Year award in 1979, an Asian Games gold, and a World Championships silver.
Her influence spanned several generations of bowlers, including Shalin Zulkifli, Lydia Kwah, Lisa Kwan, Sharon Low, and Natasha Roslan. Shirley's quiet confidence enabled young players to learn without feeling pressured to outshine their seniors. Her patience and wisdom went beyond technical advice, encompassing team spirit and perseverance.
For one young protege, Shirley not only taught the fundamentals but also instilled the value of perseverance through personal challenges. Her impact on Malaysian bowling was profound, helping to establish the nation as a force in women's bowling.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
