More names in the frames for the 43rd QubicaAMF Bowling World Cup

More and more countries have decided on their representatives for the 43rd QubicaAMF Bowling World Cup and another former champion will join Michael Schmidt of Canada and Lynda Barnes of the USA, both champions in 2005, in the starting line up.

Peter Ljung (right) of Sweden, the winner in Copenhagen in 1986 will be making the short trip to the 32-lane Kontinent Bowling Center in St Petersburg in November. Ljung also played last year in Caracas when he finished 15th.

Several other competitors have a remarkable Bowling World Cup history:

• Ann Maree Putney of Australia has played five times and amazingly has come fifth every single time
• Achim Grabowski of Germany has competed four times and always made the top eight with a best result of runner up in 1992
• Liza Del Rosario of the Philippines came second in 2001 and third in 2003
• Helen Johnsson of Sweden has played in the event three times and never been lower than sixth
• Remy Ong of Singapore came fifth in 2001, was the runner up in 2002 and reached the semi-final in 2004 when the event was held in his home city
• Bill Hoffman of the USA came third in 2003.

Then there is Jason Belmonte (left) who qualified to represent Australia through the South Pacific Classic. However, there were some question marks about his participation as he is due to get married to his fiancée Kimberly Shapter just days after the tournament finishes.

Belmo will be coming and explained: "It wasn't an easy decision, but Kim and I talked about it together and we both feel it's a great opportunity. The World Cup is an event that every bowler wants to win…. and I'm extremely excited to get the chance to do it this year." Jason finished fifth in Singapore in 2004.

In addition some of the QubicaAMF Bowling World Cup 'Sportspeople of the Tournament' will be participating again:

• Sue Abela (Malta) 1991
• Bashar Kalaji (Syria) 2001
• Beatrix Pesek (Hungary) 2003
• Nasheeha King (Mauritius) 2006.

Anne-Marie Board (left), QubicaAMF Bowling World Cup Manager, said: "Of course, I am really looking forward to seeing so many old friends who have taken part in the Bowling World Cup over the years.

"This year will also be special as we will welcome a player from Pakistan for the first time. I am sure Ijaz Ur Rehman – and all our competitors – will enjoy both the competition and the Russian hospitality of the beautiful city of St Petersburg."

To view the latest list of participating countries and players click here.