Malaysian bowling great Shirley Chow dies aged 76

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian bowling has lost one of its most distinguished figures with the passing of former national bowler Shirley Chow, a celebrated athlete who went on to shape future generations of the sport. The 1979 Sportswoman of the Year and Asian Games gold medallist died in Ipoh on Sunday, aged 76, following an illness. The Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) confirmed her death in a social media statement, describing it as a significant loss to the country's bowling fraternity. "Her dedication, passion, and commitment to bowling will be fondly remembered by the Malaysian bowling fraternity and all those whose lives she touched throughout her journey in the sport," it said. Shirley enjoyed an illustrious career spanning several major international competitions, with one of her standout achievements coming at the 1994 Hiroshima Asian Games. There, she teamed up with Lydia Kwah and Datuk Shalin Zulkifli to secure gold in the women's trios event, while also claiming silver in the doubles alongside Lydia. Her success continued at the 1995 World Championships in Reno, United States, where she partnered Shalin and Lisa Kwan to win silver in the women's trios. However, her medal-winning exploits stretched back much further, beginning with a team bronze at the 1977 SEA Games, according to an MTBC tribute video. At the 1989 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur, she collected silver medals in both the doubles and trios events before enjoying another successful campaign in Manila two years later. At the 1991 edition, Shirley captured doubles gold alongside Lisa and added a silver medal in the singles event. She enjoyed an even more fruitful outing at the 1993 SEA Games in Singapore, returning with three gold medals in the trios, team and All Events categories, as well as a silver in the singles. After establishing herself as one of Malaysia's leading bowlers, Shirley remained closely involved in the sport, turning her attention towards coaching and nurturing emerging talents, particularly in Perak. Her commitment to grassroots development was also reflected in her involvement in the National Sports Council-MTBC development programme, which was documented in 2004. Even then, she continued to demonstrate her competitive spirit on the lanes, underlining her enduring connection to the sport. MTBC said her influence extended well beyond her achievements as an athlete, with her contributions to coaching leaving a lasting impression on Malaysian bowling. "Her contributions to Malaysian bowling and the legacy she leaves behind will continue to be remembered by generations of bowlers," it said. The national governing body also extended its condolences to her family, loved ones, former teammates and students. "She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered," MTBC said. - November 2, 2026 The post Malaysian bowling great Shirley Chow dies aged 76 appeared first on Scoop .