24th July, Helsinki: The lanes at Tali Bowl were totally packed when 253 players from 46 countries marched in the picturesue opening ceremonies of the 11th World Youth Bowling Championship on Saturday.

Fourty-six countries, minus Egypt who did not show up, paraded in front of a packed house during the short and simple ceremony. WTBA president, Kevin Dornberger gave a short opening speech followed by Finnish Bowling Federation, Harri Jorvinen.

The third speech was delivered by the president of the Finish Sports Federation, Timo Laitinen. He also declared the championship open by rolling the first ball and managed to knock down nine pins.

Players' oath were taken by Roosa Lundon and Perttu Jussia of Team Finland while Seija Lankinen and Timo Manninen tok the officials' oath.

The opening ceremony followed the official practice held earlier today in which teams were divided into four one-and-a-half hour practice sessions. Competition will begin on Sunday with the Girl's Singles split into two squads.

Singapore will be represented by Daphne Tan Shi Jing, Jazreel Tan Shi Hua, New Hui Fen and Shayna Ng Lin Zhi in the girl's division and the four boys are Basil Low Eng Howe, Benjamin Lim Jia Jun, Justin Lim Chun Liang and Justin Lim Chia Loong.

Detailed scores: Championship Schedule | Photo Album.

Photos by Ari Komulainen, Finnish Bowling Federation.