MOHD Feroz Hamdan never imagined he would become an athlete — not until life forced him to start over with a prosthetic leg.
What began as rehabilitation slowly turned into passion, and eventually, a place in Sarawak’s para bowling team.
Behind every medal and every match is a story of patience, humour, and the people who have supported him along the way.
This International Day of People with Disabilities, Sarawak Tribune sat down with him to hear his story in his own words.
When and how did you first get involved in bowling as a para athlete?
I first joined the Sarawak para bowling team after the Para Malaysian Games (SUKMA) in 2016, when one of the coaching staff gave me the chance to try out. My first major competition was the 2018 Para SUKMA in Perak — and I’ve been competing actively ever since.
Who gave you the most support when you first began taking the sport seriously?
Most of the support came from my family and close friends. They encouraged me on the tough days, celebrated the small wins, and reminded me that this new path could be more than just rehabilitation — it could be a way to reclaim confidence and independence. Having people believe in you when you’re learning to walk again, and then learning to bowl, makes a huge difference.
How did you feel the first time you competed as a para athlete?
I was happy, of course, to represent Sarawak. At the same time, I was nervous — it was my first time competing at a national-level stage. I still remember the adrenaline, the mix of excitement and fear, and the thought that this was more than just a game. It was about showing myself that I could still achieve something significant, even after losing my leg.
What was the hardest challenge when learning bowling techniques with a prosthetic leg?
The hardest part was learning to keep my balance when releasing the ball, especially because my leg was still unstable at the time. But with consistent guidance from my coaches, I eventually managed to control it and master the technique.
What basic training routine do you still practise today — the one that really helps you?
One routine I still keep in my daily life is doing light exercises in the morning. It helps with my movement throughout the day, especially when doing work.
Do you have any small rituals or habits before entering the lane — something that helps you focus?
One of my small rituals is listening to music before a match. It helps me tune out distractions, settle my mind, and get ready to perform. That few minutes of focus makes a huge difference when you’re about to compete.
What is the most unforgettable moment so far in your para bowling journey?
One of my most unforgettable moments was winning a bronze medal for Sarawak. I also had the chance to compete at the 2024 Cambodia Open Para Bowling Championship and the 2025 IBF Para Bowling World Championship. Those experiences were eye-opening — not just for the competition itself, but for meeting other athletes, sharing stories, and feeling part of a community that thrives on resilience.
What are your plans or goals in the sport moving forward?
My plan is to stay active in sports and, hopefully, inspire younger disabled athletes in the future. I’m also considering taking a coaching certification so I can become a coach one day.
What new skill are you currently trying to improve or master?
No new techniques — I just take the ball and release it. Haha!
What is the most enjoyable part each time you train or compete?
Meeting other athletes with disabilities. I’ve learned so much from different disability communities, and we always support one another in many ways. It’s more than competition — it’s about sharing experiences, learning from each other, and building friendships that go beyond the bowling lane.
