Dubai: Manohar Hegde, Secretary of Karnataka Sangha Dubai (KSD), has qualified to represent Karnataka at the 34th India National Tenpin Bowling Championship, scheduled to be held in Bengaluru from March 9 to March 14, 2026. Notably, he is the only Kannadiga representing from the United Arab Emirates in the championship.
The qualification trials for the national championship were conducted in the UAE at the Dubai International Bowling Centre (DIBC), where several bowlers competed for the limited slots available to participate in the national event.
Manohar Hegde emerged as the Champion in the trials, securing the top position and earning his place in the prestigious national-level tournament. Sameer finished as the First Runner-Up, and both bowlers qualified to compete in the championship in Bengaluru.
Representing Karnataka from the UAE
Manohar Hegde’s achievement is particularly significant as he is the only Kannada-speaking participant from the UAE representing Karnataka in the championship. His qualification has brought pride to the Kannada community living abroad, especially secretary of Karnataka Sangha Dubai (KSD).
Hegde is a recognised competitive bowler at the Dubai International Bowling Centre, one of the leading bowling facilities in the region. Over the years, he has participated in multiple tournaments and has established himself as a dedicated and skilled player in the sport.
Previous achievements in bowling
Apart from qualifying for the national championship, Manohar Hegde has also achieved notable success in previous tournaments. He earlier won titles such as Graded B Champion at the 7th DIBC Open, highlighting his consistent performance and commitment to competitive bowling.
His active participation in bowling tournaments in Dubai and his dedication to improving his game have helped him gain recognition among bowling enthusiasts in the region.
Selection through UAE trials
The trials in Dubai were organised to select the top two bowlers eligible to represent Karnataka at the national championship in India. Participants competed through multiple scoring rounds where accuracy, technique, and consistency played a key role in determining the winners.
At the end of the competition, Manohar Hegde secured the highest score and finished as champion, while Sameer secured the second position as runner-up.
Pride for the Kannada community abroad
Hegde’s qualification has been widely appreciated by the Kannada community in the UAE. As Secretary of Karnataka Sangha Dubai, he has been actively involved in community activities and cultural initiatives.
His participation in the national championship not only represents his personal achievement but also reflects the continued connection of overseas Kannadigas with their home state of Karnataka.
National championship in Bengaluru
The 34th India National Tenpin Bowling Championship will bring together top bowlers from across India, making it one of the major events in the country’s bowling calendar. Participants will compete in multiple categories, showcasing their skill and precision on the national stage.
As Manohar Hegde prepares to compete in Bengaluru, members of the Kannada community in the UAE and Karnataka have extended their best wishes for his success in the championship.