JASON Belmonte is hoping for a change in form when he starts his World Men’s Tenpin Bowling Championships campaign today.

The Orange bowler is part of Australia’s six-man team which will compete in the world event in Thailand.

Belmonte said he had been disappointed with his recent form but planned to try and get back on track in time for the first round of competition today, the doubles.

“My last two European events were not so good,” Belmonte said.

“I came fifth in San Marino, which I feel like I should of done better because my ball reaction was great, and 25th in Barcelona. Barcelona I plain and simple was well below par.

“I have put in some hard work since and I do feel like I’m getting closer. I’ll hit the lanes again in Thailand when I land to sharpen up and hopefully by the time the World’s start I’ll be ready.”

This will be Belmonte third adult World Championships to add to his three World Youth Championships.

At the 2006 World Championships Belmonte won bronze for Australia in the doubles and teams events.

This will be the first time professional bowlers will be allowed to contest the championships, which will mean the competition is expected to be hotter than ever before.

“I really am excited to compete,” Belmonte said.

“I really do think a medal is possible, of course I would love for the colour of that medal to be gold but with the teams now so much stronger it will not be easy. If we gel well, there is no reason this Australian team can’t be on the podium.”

Belmonte, who is now based in France, expects America and Finland to provide some of the toughest challenges.

“The Americans have a team full of pros and Finland is the strongest amateur team in the world,” he said.

“I would expect if Australia is to bowl for gold, it would be against one of these two countries.

Joining Belmonte in the Australian team will be Jason Walsh, Andrew Frawley, Jarrod Lean, Mac Stewart and Glen Loader.

They will contest the doubles today and tomorrow and the championships will continue next week.