The 14th International Friendship Youth Bowling Championship 2026, more popularly known as the Qatar Invitational Bowling Tournament, was successfully held from February 10 to 14 at the Qatar Bowling Federation in Doha, bringing together some of the finest youth bowlers from across the globe.
Participating nations included Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Czech Republic, Sweden, Spain, Scotland, Ireland, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, and host country Qatar, among others – making the event a true celebration of international youth bowling excellence.
Proudly representing the Philippines in this prestigious competition was Antonnette Garcia, a student-athlete from University of St. La Salle, Bacolod City, who delivered an outstanding performance as part of Team Philippines in the girls’ 4-man team event.
The silver medal finish for Team Philippines was achieved with fellow STAI lady bowler Paulene Sta. Ana whose clutch high games contributed to lift Team Philippines to the win.
Team Philippines included Manila-based bowlers Kassandra Yap and Grace Hernandez, who likewise rose to the occasion and played brilliant bowling in the team event, showcasing remarkable consistency, teamwork, and composure under pressure, securing the silver medal in a highly competitive field of 12 international teams.
The Filipina quartet posted an impressive total pinfall of 4,991 over six games, with a strong team average of 207, narrowly edging out strong challengers from Japan and the Czech Republic.
Antonnette Garcia played a crucial role in the team’s podium finish, contributing a solid 1,282 series with a 213.67 average, underscoring her reliability and competitive maturity on the international stage. Her performance complemented the efforts of her teammates and helped anchor the team’s silver-medal campaign.
In addition to the team event, Garcia also demonstrated her individual prowess in the girls’ singles category, finishing 5th overall among elite international competitors. She registered a total score of 1,270 with an average of 211.67, further highlighting her consistency and growing stature as one of the country’s promising youth bowlers.
Behind Antonnette’s international success is a strong support system back home. Special recognition is extended to Lopue’s East Bowling Center, which has continuously provided her with training facilities and support crucial to her development under the mentorship of PSC Coach Herman Santos.
Antonnette Garcia’s achievements in the tournament not only bring pride to Negros Occidental and University of St. La Salle, but also signals a bright future for Philippine youth bowling. Her silver medal finish with Team Philippines stands as a testament to the country’s growing competitiveness on the global bowling stage, and to the effectiveness of grassroots training supported by dedicated coaches and institutions.
With continued support and exposure, Antonnette is poised to become one of the next key figures in Philippine bowling’s international journey.*
