World Bowling has put together an international campaign as part of its quest for Olympic conclusion, and players at the Arab Bowling Championships, currently being played in Bahrain's capital Manama, took the opportunity to back the campaign.

The women's event was played at the Arab Championships for a third time with participation by female players on the rise.

Bahrain bowler Nadia Alawadhi is a multi-time gold medallist at the event.

She said: "The sport of bowling has provided many of the women from the Arab countries with a positive and competitive outlet.

"It is an incredible honour for me to represent and win medals for my country in this competition, which is the top level of competition in the region.

"However, the greatest honor for me would be to have the chance to represent my country in the Olympic Games.

"Bowling has provided these women with the opportunity to reconnect with society and provide a positive outlook on life.

"It is a game that most Arab women can play and a sport that we feel proud to represent our countries in.”

Bandar Al-Shafi, secretary general of the Qatar Bowling Federation, added: “Bowling is one of the most accessible sports for both genders in the world, especially in the Middle East.

"The sport continues to grow at a very high pace in the Gulf Region, especially in the women's division in which more investments are being made.

"This is very encouraging."

Bowling is up against baseball/softball, karate, roller sports, sport climbing, squash, surfing and wushu in the race to be included at Tokyo.

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