9th September, Kuala Lumpur: The bowling lanes of the Pyramid Megalanes are truly alive with the sound of tenpins as the teams from 65 countries get in as much practice time as they can before the start of official competition on Thursday.

The bowling centre is truly a spectacular sight now with the multi-coloured uniforms of the players dominating the overall scene.

Along the lanes are teams are teams from Argentina to Wales, Iceland to Australia. Most of the teams have six women and six men on their roster, but the likes Uruguay have one man and one woman. Whatever the total of players, all have eyes focused on standing atop the winners' rostrum when the medals are presented for each of the events.

Ask around for the favourites for the medals and you'll get some convincing replies: Finland, Sweden say those from Europe; Australia or Qatar say those from Asia; and, of course, the United States say the Americans. But ask the locals and the answer is always the same - Malaysia! And they could be right, there is no more of a determined group than the national team representing the Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress. They'd better strengthen the roof of the Pyramid Shopping Centre when they take to the lanes, the cheers could break the bolts.

For further information, please contact Media Director, Keith Hale at KEITHHALE679@aol.com, media@mtbc.org.my or via the World Championships Media Room Phone +60 3 7492 0902.