From Tears to World Gold: Anja Vicković's Incredible Journey Conquers Bowling World

At just 21 years old, Anja Vicković has achieved a remarkable feat, returning from the World Bowling Championship with six medals. Three of these came from the U23 competition, and three from the senior category, including two coveted gold medals. She secured the world championship title for both the U23 and senior divisions.

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I'm a very nervous person. In bowling and outside of bowling. A thousand thoughts are in my head. But when I get on the lane, no matter how nervous I am, I try to look calm.

Vicković acknowledges the intense physical and mental demands of bowling, emphasizing the need for concentration and experience. "It's a physically demanding sport, but also very much a mental sport," she stated. "You need concentration, experience, and calmness." Despite appearing composed on the lane, she admits to being a nervous person off the course. "I'm a very nervous person. In bowling and outside of bowling. A thousand thoughts are in my head," Vicković explained. "But when I get on the lane, no matter how nervous I am, I try to look calm."

She shared that her unique way of managing pre-competition nerves involves crying. "I'm known for releasing emotions through crying," she said. "When I'm nervous, some people listen to music, some run, but I have to cry it out." This emotional release helps her approach the lane with a clearer mind, telling herself that everything will be alright. Her parents are her staunchest supporters, with her mother experiencing significant anxiety during competitions and her father being her lifelong fan.

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It's a physically demanding sport, but also very much a mental sport. You need concentration, experience, and calmness.

Vicković's journey into bowling began at age seven when a flyer from a local bowling alley caught her eye. Her brother was already involved in the sport, and after trying it out with friends, she found her passion. While she also pursued judo and acrobatic rock'n'roll, bowling ultimately captured her dedication. Balancing her athletic pursuits with her studies in biology at the University of Zagreb presents a challenge, but one she is determined to manage.

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I'm known for releasing emotions through crying. When I'm nervous, some people listen to music, some run, but I have to cry it out.