Mika Koivuniemi, Finland, has been named December 2012 Kegel Bowler of the Month by the International Bowling Media Association. Koivuniemi captured two international tournaments in the month.

The first win was the Round1 Japan Cup, a 268-164 decision over Yoshihiro Kaji, Japan. His trip to the title began with a defeat of Yoshihiro Sakuraba, Japan, 228-171 and a close semifinal win over Sean Rash in a roll off, 39-38, after 223-223 tie.

The Japan Cup win is his second victory in the event, the first coming in 2007.

The World Bowling Tour's 12th Qatar Bowling Open was the second title of December; 544-471 two-game total pins win over Finnish countryman Tony Ranta.

Top-seeded Koivuniemi downed Martin Larsen, Sweden, in the semifinals 442-385 to set up the title match against Ranta.

The two international victories are the 10th and 11th titles of his PBA career.

Others receiving votes were Martin Larsen, winner of the 6th Kingdom International Open; Shayna Ng of Singapore and Syafiq Ridhwan of Malaysia, women's and men's champion at the 48th QubicaAMF World Cup.

 

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