Ballarat’s Kellie Hughes will represent the state in tenpin bowling during the Trans Tasman Special Olympics next week. PICTURE: KATE HEALY
BUTTERFLIES will be Kellie Hughes’ good luck charm when she competes with her colourful bowling ball at the Trans Tasman Special Olympics tournament next week.
Hughes has represented Victoria in Special Olympics events in swimming, but this is the first time she will compete at a national level in tenpin bowling.
“It feels really good to represent the state. It’s different to competing in Ballarat – there’s more pressure,” Hughes said.
She will fly to Cairns on October 8 and will compete in single and teams tournaments from October 9 to 11.
Competitors in Special Olympic events have an intellectual disability.
The 28-year-old athlete only started bowling four years ago.
Before then, she had never picked up a bowling ball.
“I love bowling and all sports,” Hughes said.
“It’s a great way to meet new people.”
She hopes during this competition she will break her personal best score of 149.
“Mum will be more nervous than I will,” she said.
“I don’t get very nervous when I’m playing.”
Hughes’ mother Tracey Hughes said Kellie doesn’t let things get to her.
“She might notice later how big an event is, but in the moment she handles pressure really well,” she said.
nicole.cairns@thecourier.com.au