At least 16 women from various universities took part in the first ever women’s ten pin bowling competition in Kabul on Monday. 

The tournament titled ‘Women the Symbol of Kindness’ was held ahead of International Women's Day (IWD), March 8, and organized by the Afghanistan Ten Pin Bowling Federation.

“The main goal of the tournament among the university students was to introduce ten pin bowling as a sport to them and to find outstanding players for the national team,” said federation chief Edris Farooqi.

“In cooperation with the National Olympic Committee, we help the federation to introduce bowling as a sport to the people around the country,” said Hafiz Wali Rahimi, head of the department of physical education and sports. 

Four women made their way to the final round of the tournament. Mursal, in her fourth round scored 99 points and was top of the log, while Shairah Shaheer scored 87 points and was second.

“I have been bowling for the past four years and I am proud to get first position at the event,” said Mursal.

“Holding such tournaments will have a positive impact on women and girls,” said Shairah Shaheer. 

Afghanistan Ten Pin Bowling Federation was brought under the auspices of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) three months ago and was accepted as member of Asian and international bowling federations last month.