Ashlyn Mohr got her first taste of tenpin bowling when she was two years old.
Now, 13 years later, the teen was recently selected to represent Australia at the 19th Asian Schools Championships.
Ashlyn will be part of the Female Junior Asian Schools team for the championships held in Taichung, Taiwan, from September 30 to October 8.
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READ NOWThe development of her sporting career is the realisation of a dream.
“My sporting dream ever since I was six years old is about to come true – ‘I’m playing for Australia’,” she said.
Ashlyn has won many medals and trophies in her field. Her first Australian title was when she took home the Restricted Cup at age 10. She has participated in the Australian Junior Championships since 2007, representing her local Bowling Centre, and the state team since 2015.
“Tenpin bowling is a growing sport in Australia. It’s a massive sport in Asia, Europe and the United States,” she said.
“It’s can be played all year round and by people of all ages and abilities – it’s the only sport where the ball comes back to you.”
However, as with many things selection is only part of the process and Ashlyn is looking for help to get to the games.
“My family have to fund a three-week trip that includes a four-day training camp at the Singapore Sports School before travelling to Taichung Taiwan for the 19th Asian Schools Competition,” she said.
“As there is no state or national funding for athletes given this opportunity to represent this awesome country of Australia, I will need financial support.
“I leave on September 25 – it’s a huge ask at short notice, but I’m hoping with the help of the community my participation can become a reality.”
The estimated cost of the entire trip is $6000.
It includes travel to Singapore and Taichung, accommodation, food, uniforms, competition entry fees and travel expenses.
“My mother, through the Australian Sports Foundation, created a sports-based fund me page similar to (Go Fund Me),” Ashlyn said.
“The bonus of using this page is that all donations are tax-deductible.”
“All donations no matter how small will help me represent Australia and will be greatly appreciated.”
Visit https://asf.org.au/athletes/tenpin-bowling-asian-schools-championships-and-beyond/.