Canberra tenpin sharp shooter Nathan Shoesmith was speechless when he was told he’d get to represent his country at the World Youth Tenpin Bowling Championships in Detroit, Michigan commencing later this month.
His selection came on the back of a stellar season that’s seen him place second at the Australian Youth Cup, win the National Youth Team Challenge and bowl a perfect 300 game.
Speaking to Canberra Daily days before he left for Detroit, Shoesmith says it was his first time travelling overseas, and he was very excited.
“I just want to do my best over there without thinking about the hype that comes with American tenpin … that’s something I have to prepare myself for,” he says.
Being given the opportunity to compete on the world stage has been a long time coming for Shoesmith, 20, who bowled his first frame aged seven in his home town of Gunnedah NSW.
His parents have both bowled for over 30 years; and moved to Canberra in 2008.
The competitive tenpin scene in Canberra provides Shoesmith with limited opportunities; but he says he receives amazing support here.
“Zone Bowling Belconnen allow me to bowl all week almost every day; they’ve helped me get to where I am by allowing me to practise.”
Shoesmith says his goal for Detroit is to do his best, and to walk away with a medal would be a cherry on top.
“It’s one of my ambitions to go over there and smash it. Not only that but to also enjoy it, make the most of the trip.”
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