August 15, 2023 Desert Bowler

Vol. 35, No. 8

Tournament Schedule

Local and national tournament schedule on page 12

Agent Ong Open

Oct 19-22: Bowlero Kyrene, $10,000 first place guaranteed. For details on the tournament see ad on page 8

Arizona State USBC

Aug 26-27: State Masters and Queens, Shake, Rattle & Bowl (Cliff Castle Casino, Camp Verde). See ad on page 6

New Mexico Open

Aug 18-20: Tenpins and More (Rio Rancho, NM).

Glenfair Lanes Tournaments

Aug 19: 9-Pin No-Tap Drop Low

Aug 20: Red, White & Blue

Aug 26: 9-Pin Scotch Doubles

Cotton Bowl Tournaments

Aug 19: Color Pin

Aug 20: No-Tap

Aug 27: Scotch Doubles

Sep 30: Scratch 8 Gamer

MPUSBC Tournaments

Sep 14-15: Bowling Belles, Lakeview Lanes

Strike Force Tour Tournaments

Sep 2-4: AMF McRay

Oct 15: Bowlero Christown

MMA Tournament

Sep 23-24: MMA Military Classic at Bowlero Kyrene.

TAT Desert Southwest

Oct 6-8: Cliff Castle

DIGITAL ISSUE

Arizona State USBC Induct Brett Wolfe and Gene Hurley into Hall of Fame

During the Arizona State USBC Annual meeting, held August 13, 2023, two bowlers were inducted into the Hall of Fame for Superior Performance.

Both of these men have shown the dedication it takes to get to this status. Their number of 299’s, 300’s and 800 series are staggering. The Arizona State USBC is proud to announce this award to two men who represent the sport of bowling in Arizona.

Brett Wolfe has earned numerous first and second place honors in Phoenix, Mesa and AZ State tournaments. He was recognized for a USBC Sport Record series of 886 in 2012. He has 20 plus years of maintaining an average over 200, 100 plus 300 games, and multiple 800 series in both league and tournament play. His many accomplishments were recently recognized by his induction into the Metro Phoenix USBC Hall of Fame.

Gene Hurley has 20 plus years with a 200 or above average, 70 plus 700 series, numerous first and second place honors in the Valley.

Arizona

State

USBC Hall of Fame

Gene is a former Board member of both the Metro Phoenix USBC and the AZ State USBC. Gene is a Bronze certified coach that has and still is coaching many of our

Inductees Brett Wolfe and Gene Hurley

youth bowlers. With his assistance the Sunrise Mountain High School Girls team earned back to back undefeated seasons.

THE ROW Reno is Presenting Sponsor for 2024 USBC Women's Championships

ARLINGTON, Texas – The United States Bowling Congress announced THE ROW Reno will be the presenting sponsor of the 2024 USBC Women’s Championships.

THE ROW Reno, which features three downtown resorts just a short walk away from the National Bowling Stadium, also will be the official host hotels and bracket sponsor of the 2024 Women’s Championships.

The three resorts – Eldorado Resort Casino, Circus Circus Reno and Silver Legacy Resort Casino –offer such amenities as award-win-

Strike Force was at Let It Roll Bowl, August 12th. A total of 83 entries (60 qualifying and 23 parlays) paying out over $5,000 in main and side event prize funds.

Congratulations to Joshua Chandler pulling out the win for his 1st AHT SFT title and $800.00! Congrats to Kyle John on 2nd place for $400.00. Also, congrats to Robbie Patterson on 3rd place for $280.00!

ning restaurants, exciting bars and lounges, a luxury wellness escape at The Spa at Silver Legacy, Reno’s only Topgolf Swing Suite and actionpacked gaming options, including slots, table games, sports betting and Caesars Rewards promotions.

All same-day brackets payouts from the 2024 Women’s Championships will be picked up inside the Silver Legacy Resort Casino.

The 2024 event will run from April 27 to June 30 at the National Bowling Stadium, marking the tournament’s 13th trip to Reno and 10th

visit to the Taj Mahal of Tenpins.

“With the National Bowling Stadium at the doorstep of THE ROW, bowling is part of the fabric of the Reno community,” THE ROW General Manager Ken Ostempowski said. “As such, it is truly an honor to once again be the presenting sponsor of the 2024 USBC Women’s Championships. The 2024 attendees are part of our family, and we look forward to offering them an incredible experience when they join us at THE ROW next year.”

(continued on page 9)

The next issue will be September 15th, Deadline is September 14th

See page 13 for tournament schedule

TAT Regional Events Starting in Arizona

Coming on the heels of a very successful PBA LBC Regional Championship tournament held at Bowlero Mesa in April, True Amateur Tournaments (TAT) will begin running regional tournaments on a regular basis starting in October. The new TAT Desert Southwest region plans to run about six tournaments per year throughout the area, which includes Arizona, New Mexico, and portions of California and Nevada. The first regional will be the TAT Cliff Castle Classic in Camp Verde from October 6th - 8th. Then, over Thanksgiving weekend, November 24th - 26th, Mesa East Bowl will host the TAT Holiday Classic. Additional tournaments through the end of 2024 are being planned.

TAT national events continue to grow as bowlers throughout the nation - and internationallymake their way to Las Vegas in February and July each year to bowl for a guaranteed first place prize of $25,000 and a shot at the Progressive Pot that now exceeds $83,000! And now, TAT Desert Southwest will follow the same basic format as national events, only on a smaller scale. For those who haven’t bowled the TAT in Las Vegas, these regionals will be a great stepping stone in a somewhat lower-pressure environment, closer to home. For bowlers with TAT experience, these tournaments will be a chance to enjoy the TAT format more often for a

Randy Blunck Wins 9-Pin No-Tap Tournament at Let It Roll Bowl

by: Josh Anthony

Thanks to everyone that came out to the Grab-Ur-Balls 9-Pin No Tap tournament at Let It Roll Bowl. We had a good turnout. Still a few bugs to work out before next months tournament. Thanks to everyone for their patience and understanding!!

Thanks also to the staff at Let It Roll Bowl for helping work through everything we had going on with the tournament!!

Congratulations to Randy Blunck for picking up the win and edging out Nikki Mack by 5 pins!!! That was probably a fun ride home (lol).

We paid out the top 5 places. Here is the list of the winners!!

1st Randy Blunck - $292

2nd Nikki Mack - $214

3rd Mike Steele - $146

4th Antonio Faulkner - $98

4th Cindy Humphrey - $98

Next months tournament will be on September 3rd at Noon. Complete tournament details will be posted on the Let It Roll Bowl Facebook page.

Let It Roll Bowl is located at 8925 N. 12th St, Phoenix, 602944-4401, www.letitrollbowl.com

low price, but with a still-substantial prize fund.

The TAT Cliff Castle Classic entry fee is $109 with $99 re-entries and a special $99 rate for Friday night squads. Optional $10 Progressive Pot and $5 bracket entries will be available at check-in. Just like at TAT national events, regional prize funds will be guaranteed. 1st prize is $5,000 (when in the Progressive Pot - $4,000 otherwise) and each division winner is guaranteed at least $1,000. If the Progressive Pot is not broken, it will carry over to subsequent tournaments and grow over time. All bowlers making the cut to the TAT Finals on Sun-

day afternoon receive a minimum of $200, with an additional $100 for every round advanced. Bonus prizes will be awarded in all ten qualifying squads, including brand new Storm bowling balls, TAT national entries, free passes to Out of Africa Wildlife Park, lane time with Specto at B3 Performance, and more.

Just as the national events have five divisions, so will the regionals. For Cliff Castle, there will be a scratch division along with handicap divisions for seniors (50+), women, bowlers averaging 190-215, and bowlers averaging 189 & under. There is truly a division for everyone.

TAT and Cliff Castle staff are very excited to host this tournament at a great time of year in the Verde Valley. The weather will have cooled, but it won’t yet be cold. The leaves up north will

be at their height of color. Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon, Flagstaff, Humphreys Peak, the Grand Canyon, several National Monuments, and many other adventures are a short drive away. TAT sponsor Out of Africa Wildlife Park is offering bowlers and their family & friends 20% off entry tickets. With discounted lodging offered to bowlers at the Cliff Castle Casino Hotel, along with the obvious opportunities for gaming, it’s an ideal time and place for a mini-vacation.

With two events already on the calendar in 2023 and six more events in various stages of planning all the way through the end of 2024, it’s an exciting time to be a competitive bowler in the Desert Southwest!

For more information about the TAT Cliff Castle Classic, including online registration, visit https://tatbowl.com/dsw.

Curtis Aemisegger; 300 game; Lakeview Lanes; Senior Traveling Scratch Trio league; August 2, 2023

James Daab; 300 game; AMF Union Hills; West Valley Scratch Trios league; July 5, 2023

Tracy Dumas; 821 series [278278-265]; Lakeview Lanes; Senior Traveling Scratch Trio league; July 26, 2023

Corbin Farris; 300 game; AMF Union Hills; Summer No-Tap league; June 22, 2023

Sheldon Frost; 300 game and 822 series [275-300-247]; AMF McRay; Training Camp league; July 17, 2023

Troy Gallegos; 300 game; AMF Chandler; Virtue Fun league; July 19, 2023

Spencer Jefferson; 300 game; Bowlero Kyrene; Foxes and Hounds league; June 27, 2023

555 Tournament Big Success at Cerbat Lanes

Joe Poma; 811 series [288246-277]; Mesa East Bowl; 9 to 5ers league; July 13, 2023; Ball used: Hammer; Drilled by: Chris Tucker at Virtue Bowling Supply.

Raymond Johnson; 300 game; AMF Union Hills; West Valley Scratch Trios league; June 21, 2023

Brandon Loss; 300 game; AMF Peoria; Nite Timers league; July 31, 2023

Carter O'Neal; 300 game; AMF Peoria; Nite Timers league; August 7, 2023

Devon Ramos; 300 game; Bowlero Gilbert; Hot Mess league; July 18, 2023

Curtis Ryland; 300 game; Bowlero Gilbert; Hot Mess league; August 8, 2023

by: Krysta Deleon

What an amazing tournament! Thank you everyone who came out and bowled!

We had 86 entries which gave us a nice prize fund! Congratulations Gregory J Mintz Jr. for winning the handicap event paying $700 for first and coming in sec-

ond in scratch which paid out $300! And congratulations to Matt Brazeal for taking first in scratch which paid out $400!!!

Our family cannot wait to throw the next 555! Until then, everyone get ready for BTC (Bowlers Tournament Club) coming to Cerbat Lanes November 11th!

Cerbat Lanes is located at 3631 Stockton Hill Rd, Kingman, AZ, phone 928-692-1818

EDITOR: Herb Grassl

TUCSON REPRESENTATIVE: Mike Campbell

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Michael “Chip” Beck, Dave Williams, Frenchy Letourneau, Kathy A. Look, John Johnson

Gregory Mintz, Jr and Krysta Deleon

Las Vegas Open raffle winner Greg Mamac and Krysta Deloen

Cerbat Lanes owners: Frank and Krysta Deleon, Tammi and Dan Nadeau

JBT Results; Tournament of Champions; June 25, 2023

JUNIOR BOWLERS TOUR SCHEDULE

September 9-10, 2023

Cerbat Lanes; Kingman, AZ

September 23-24, 2023

Youth New Mexico Open Tenpins & More Rio Rancho, NM

October 7-8, 2023

Bowlero Kyrene; Chandler, AZ

October 28, 2023

Suncoast; Las Vegas, NV

October 29, 2023

Strike Zone; Henderson, NV

champs & finalists

Two bowlers added to their title collections, while two tasted victory for the first time, at the JBT's annual Tournament of Champs and Future Champs, hosted by Phoenix's beautifully remodeled Let It Roll.

In the all-time champs event, the current JBT bowlers shut the adults out of the finals for the first time in a while, and the resulting stepladder began with Keith Ylvisaker squeaking by all-conference points leader Andrew Guba in round one. Josh Molloy then got past Ylvisaker to reach the title match... where he ran into an absolute runaway freight train in top seed Brandon Rother. Rother won the AZ Invitational the day before, and kept destroying racks here today, starting with the front six to put Molloy away early and earn the 8th title of his JBT career. Rother earned a total of $1,515 on the lucrative weekend, but Josh beat that with a whopping $1,600- $1,000 of that coming from breaking the long PowerBowl drought with a jackpot winning 5-count!

Handicap champs began their stepladder with Terell Coates squeaking by Austin Nash by three pins. Isaac John then beat Coates to setup an all-New Mexico title game between him and top seed Aiden Ruiz Jimenez. A 10-pin in the ninth frame stopped a comeback attempt by Aiden, and John claimed his second career title with the TOC victory.

Both non-champs finals featured commanding ladder-climbs, as Devin Fincham rolled past Nathan Bravo, Zackary Evans, and top seed Sterling Smith, to finally earn his first career JBT title. Dylan Donahue didn't look anything like a nonchamp in the scratch division, as he blasted 712 in a three-game romp over Ryan Zent, Jason Gootzeit, and top seed Nathan Harnit (who was trying out scratch for the first time!), to erase 'non-champ' from his resume.

Gootzeit emerged with the day's U17 win, while Peyton Lee beat Kendall Bollea to take the girls scratch subdivision. Giant thanks to Let It Roll for their usual hospitality, and especially all the JBT alumni coming back to bowl with today's JBT stars and stars in the making. An enormous $11,210 was awarded over the weekend to wrap up an incredible regular season, with roughly double that up for grabs at the TPC in July!

Tournament of Champions; Final Results and Scholarship Winners

June 25, 2023; Let It Roll Bowl

Scratch Division

1 Brandon Rother $515

2 Josh Molloy $1,370

3 Keith Ylvisaker $150

4 Andrew Guba $125

5 Daunte Uribarri $100

Handicap Division

1 Isaac John $500

2 Aiden Ruiz-Jimenez $250

3 Terrell Coates $150

4 Austin Nash $100

5 Evelynn Bollea $75

Over $4,500,000 in Scholarships Awarded to Bowlers of all Skill Levels, age 21 and under

ENTRY FEE: (standard events) $60 Handicap/$60 Scratch plus optional scholarship extras (check website for event details)

‘CLASSIC FORMAT’:

• 2 divisions, scratch & handicap

• bowl 5 games across 10 lanes

• the top 40% advance to semi’s

• semifinal formats vary

• plaques for all finalists

For more information, please email us: director@bowljbt.com or check out www.bowljbt.com. Come experience the fun of the JBT!

Third Annual Pay It Forward Tournament, September 16th

By Mark R. Kerr

TUCSON - One of the great things about our bowling family are those who work hard and give back for the future of our sport, the youth bowler. One is Mr. Cory Knop of Ready to Strike Pro Shop, located in Bowlero Tucson, 114 S. Camino Seco.

Cory works with our younger bowlers and with the Junior Programs at Bowlero, as well with the other similar programs. Two years ago, Cory took it a step further with the creation of the Pay It Forward, which raises funds for all of Tucson's junior bowling programs.

Pay It Forward is more than bowling games at Bowlero. It is about the future of bowling and our junior bowlers, giving them the opportunity to succeed on and off the lanes.

You can bowl and donate through your entry fee. You can also donate to Pay It Forward and score off the lanes too. Cory is working to get sponsors for the third annual event, which Tucson Metro USBC will also be helping with a donation.

For more information, message Cory on Messenger or call Ready to Strike, 520-719-9821.

Tucson Metro USBC Update

By Mark R. Kerr, President

I want to thank the Members of the Tucson Metro USBC Board, who at the monthly meeting held July 16, gave me the privilege of serving again as your President for Tucson Metro USBC for the next two years. I am honored and look forward to continuing the work for the bowlers.

The second annual Welcome Back Tournament begins the season on August 20, at Cactus Bowl, 3665 S. 16th Avenue, at 10 a.m.

The Welcome Back Tournament is a no-tap, color pin bowling event for the first time, tournament bowlers.

A total of 66 spots are open for the Welcome Back Tournament. In addition to the fun and color pins, Tucson Metro USBC will feature the tournaments for the 2023-24 schedule and have prizes to raffle for the early entrants, including USBC Sanction Cards and a free team entry for the winner's choice on the tournament schedule (Masters and Queens Events not eligible).

E-mail Association Manager, Steve Harris at am@tucsonmetrousbc.com for more information and to sign up early. It will also be a walk-in event, check in starting at 9 am, bowling and fun beginning at 10 am. For more information call 520-591-0622.

Due to scheduling issues, some dates and bowling centers have needed to be changed for the bowling events for the 202324 season. What follows is the revised schedule:

Aug 20, 2023: Cactus Bowl, 10 a.m. Tucson Metro Welcome Back Tournament.

Sept 16, 2023: Bowlero Pay-it-Forward (Tucson Youth Bowling Fundraiser).

Sept 23, 2023: Cactus Bowl, 1 p.m., Tucson Senior/Not Senior Sports Shot Sweeper.

Sept 24, 2023: Cactus Bowl, 10 a.m., Tucson Super-Senior (65+) Masters Tournament.

Sept 30, Oct. 1, 2023: Cactus Bowl, Tucson Senior Masters.

Oct. 15, 2023: Cactus Bowl. Bowl for the Cure, Tucson.

Nov. 4 – Nov. 17, 2023: All Tucson Centers, BVL League Scores Tournament.

Nov. 12, 2023: Fiesta Lanes, Junior/Adult Tournament.

Nov. 16-18, 2023; Fiesta Lanes, Special Olympics.

Nov. 18–19, 2023; Tucson Bowl, Tucson 44th Annual Women’s Senior Tournament.

Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 2023: Bowlero Tucson, Tucson 61st Annual Senior Open.

Jan. 20-21, 2024: Tucson Bowl/Cactus Bowl, Tucson City Junior Tournament.

Jan. 27 – 28, 2024: Lucky Strike Bowl, Tucson 74th Annual Women’s Tournament.

Feb. 17-18, Feb. 24-25, March 2-3, 2024: Tucson 80th Annual Open Tournament. Team Event – Cactus Bowl. Doubles and Singles – Fiesta Lanes.

March 10, 2024: Tucson Bowl, 10 a.m., Tucson Open Sport Shot Sweeper.

March 16-17 2024: Tucson Bowl, Tucson Masters/Queens.

March 24, 2024: Bowlero Tucson, Junior Kings and Queens.

For more information Email Steve Harris at am@tucsonmetrousbc.com or call 520-5910622.

Tayler Clark accepted her Girl

of the Year award from Arizona State USBC, Sunday, August 13, at the Arizona State USBC Meeting in Tempe.

Tayler will be leaving for Musk-

ingum University. Tucson is so proud of you and wish you all the best in your bowling career and college adventures!

TUCSON HONOR SCORES

Harrison Cole; 802 series [258298-246]; Cactus Bowl; Cactus Juniors Bowling program; July 22, 2023.

Kyndle Tooke Farrell; 300 game; Lucky Strike Bowl; Dynamic Duos league; July 19, 2023.

Timothy Jacob; 300 game; Lucky Strike Bowl; Dynamic Duos league; July 19, 2023.

Scott Vest; 300 game and 803 series; Lucky Strike Bowl; Dynamic Duos league; August 9, 2023

TUCSON BOWLING CENTERS

Summer Hours

Monday: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Tuesday: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Wednesday: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Thursday: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Friday: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Saturday: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM Sunday: CLOSED

If you have any questions please call or text us

BOWLERS ADVANTAGE

Congratulations to Tayler Clark on receiving the Girl of the Year Award from the Arizona State USBC. She received her award on August 13th during the Arizona State USBC Annual Meeting

The Match Is Set! Robert vs Greg Thompson, Jr 5 Games, $1,000 per Game

Here we go! Thursday, October 19th following the Agent Ong Open sweeper at Bowlero Kyrene in Chandler.

Hold onto your seats, because the showdown we've all been waiting for is about to unfold! Greg Thompson Jr, also known as GT2, has just thrown his hat into the ring and accepted Robert Smith's open challenge!

These two titans will face off in an intense 5-Game Match, with $1,000 per game on the line! The tension is real, and the stakes are sky-high!

That's not even the best part!

This thrilling match is happening right after the Thursday Night Sweeper at the Agent Ong Open on October 19th! GT2 vs. Robert Smith, it's a head-to-head, one-

on-one battle that promises nonstop action and heart-pounding moments!

But wait, there's more at stake here! The Agent Ong Open isn't just any tournament, it's offering a massive $10,000 first-place prize GUARANTEED! So, if you're feeling the fire, the competition, and the urge to be part of something extraordinary, head over to www. agentongopen.com and secure your spot in this incredible event!

Don't miss out on any of the action! Join us live in Chandler, AZ or tune in to BowlStreamTV to catch every strike, spare, and showdown LIVE! Let's light up the lanes and highlight what Arizona bowling is all about!

Let's do this

(Agent Ong Open Press Release)

THE ROW Reno is Presenting Sponsor for 2024 USBC Women's Championships

As the presenting sponsor, official host hotels and bracket sponsor of the 2024 Women’s Championships, THE ROW Reno will provide USBC members with special offers throughout the tournament and be prominently featured at the National Bowling Stadium, on BOWL.com, through USBC’s social media channels and at MyBowlingVacation.com, the official travel partner of USBC.

For the 2024 event, THE ROW Reno is offering participants at the Women’s Championships reduced hotel rates and, for a limited time, will waive resort fees for those who book their stay through MyBowlingVacation.com.

The offer for waived resort fees is available from now until Aug. 30, 2023, and bowlers who book after the deadline through MyBowlingVacation.com still will receive 50% off

(continued from page 1)

the standard $35 resort fee per day ($17.50).

Each offer features no booking or cancellation fees.

“USBC and THE ROW Reno have shared a partnership for many years, and we’re excited to continue that relationship at the 2024 Women’s Championships,” USBC President Melissa McDaniel said. “THE ROW has put together some great offers to help our bowlers save on their trip to the 2024 event, and we know they’ll have an incredible experience while staying at these resorts.”

To learn more about the USBC Women’s Championships and register for the 2024 event in Reno, visit BOWL.com/WomensChamp. Visit THEROWReno.com to learn more about the resort experiences at THE ROW Reno.

The Agent Ong Open Bowling Tournament: A Celebration of Love and Bowling.

In response to a close friend asking me why I decided to take on the challenge of organizing this huge tournament, it made me reflect on my lifelong love for bowling and the significant role it has played in shaping who I am today. This idea of hosting a large tournament has been brewing in my mind for many years, and it wasn't until 2022 that I finally put pen to paper and began creating the event.

Bowling, a sport that has woven itself into the very fabric of my life, holds a special place in my heart and has been an enduring source of joy. Growing up in Tempe, AZ, I was introduced to this beautiful game by my father, William Ong, who was a man of remarkable wisdom and warmth. Despite the significant age difference between us, my father found unique ways to bond with me, and one of those treasured activities was taking me to the local bowling center, Fair Lanes Tempe Village. It was here, amidst the sound of rolling balls and the clattering of pins, that my love for bowling was born.

My father would sit there with his cup of coffee, savoring each moment as he watched me bowl for hours on end. It was evident how much I adored the sport, and to nurture that passion, he signed me up for my first Junior league on Saturday mornings. From those early days, my fondness for bowling grew exponentially, transitioning from recreation to hobby, and eventually, it became an obsession and a genuine love for the game. Bowling became a part of who I am, and through it, I found not just friends but a bowling family.

Bowling also holds a deeper significance for me, as it keeps the memory of my parents alive. Sadly, my father passed away when I was only 17, and my mother, Florence, followed him in January of 2018. But in a poignant moment, I achieved my first 300 ring, a symbol of perfection in the sport, and handed it to my mother as a farewell gift. I wanted her to take it with her, to show my father and let him know that I had finally achieved it, dedicating that milestone to them both.

The sport of bowling has given me a sense of purpose, and I've embraced the thrill of competition, including taking my shot on the PBA Tour during regional events. While I haven't seen great success on the professional front, I cherish every moment I spend on the lanes, embracing the camaraderie and sportsmanship that make bowling truly special.

It is with this immense love and passion for bowling that I proudly present the Agent Ong Open Bowling Tournament. This event is more than just another competition; it's a celebration of the sport and the sense of togetherness it fosters. My intention in organizing this tournament is to try and create something different and to showcase that Arizona can be a destination for tournament bowling on a grander scale. The Inaugural Tournament has my commitment to the integrity of the sport of bowling and genuine competition.

The name of the tournament itself holds a deeply personal significance as it represents who I am — a Travel Agency owner and a Real Estate Agent — thus, The Agent Ong Open was born as a tribute to my parents, using my birth name.

As we embark on this exciting journey, my goal is to create an atmosphere where bowlers of all levels, from aspiring amateurs to seasoned pros, can come together and revel in the joy of the sport. It is my sincere hope that every participant walks away from the tournament with a smile on their face, knowing they were part of an event run smoothly, with fairness and excitement in the air.

This dream-turned-reality could not have happened without the invaluable support of numerous individuals who shared their time, knowledge, and unwavering encouragement. From the papers that were almost shredded to the April of 2023 launch, their contribution has been immeasurable.

The Agent Ong Open Bowling Tournament is not just about the main event itself; we have included sidepots, brackets, and even a Thursday Night Sweeper. One of the highlights is the Smart program, generously provided by USBC (United States Bowling Congress), allowing young bowlers to participate in the tournament through scholarship opportunities.

As we come together for this inaugural event, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to those who played a significant role in making this tournament a reality. Your support means the world to me, and I am excited to welcome participants from all over to the Valley of the Sun, showcasing the incredible charm of Arizona.

In closing, I invite all bowlers, enthusiasts, and supporters to join us for the Agent Ong Open Bowling Tournament. Let us create lasting memories, embrace the spirit of sportsmanship, and bask in the love for bowling that binds us all together. Together, we'll continue to grow and make this tournament an annual celebration of our shared passion. See you on the lanes!

Regards,

Carl Ong

A letter to our participants. This is my "why."

Strike Force Tour AHT $1,500 Labor Day Championships

Who's ready to win $1,500.00!!!

We are only 3 weeks away from our Labor Day 3-Day Major Event at AMF McRay. There are multiple qualifying days with multiple squads on Saturday, Sunday & Monday. Each day is a separate chance to advance to the Labor Day Quarterfinals on Monday, September 4th at 3:30 PM!!!

We will have tons of side action with a Special 3-Day Sweeper guaranteeing $300.00 for first place. There will be $100.00 high game side pots (with handicap) for the 3:00 PM squads on Saturday & Sunday. Also, the 11:00 AM squad on Monday will have this feature with a bonus $200.00 high game

Color Pin at Cotton Bowl

Color-Pin event will be held at Cotton Bowl in Casa Grande, AZ, with two squads 6pm and 9pm, paying out day of event. Cost details are:

• $40 entry fee

• $14 lineage and expenses

• $3 mystery score (included with entry)

• $5 handicap series side-pot (included in entry, pays 1:5)

• $18 towards each entry goes into the 'color pin pot' (strikes and spares with certain color pin combinations get PAYED ON THE SPOT!)

Additional sidepots available

side pot (with handicap) on the 1:00 PM squad.

Also, we will be offering a Super Saver Package which will include: Two (2) Main Event Entries ($105 value), One (1) Free Track Bowling ball of your choice ($170 value), One (1) Special SFT AHT Towel ($10 value) & Ten (10) extra raffle tickets for our MEGA Labor Day Raffle ($10 value), for $239.95!!!

For more information, please visit our website at aht.strikeforcetour.com.

We hope to see you all out there for our major event!!!

(Strike Force Tour AHT Press Release)

will be: handicap game $10, scratch high game $10, scratch series $10 (pays 1:4).

Cotton Bowl Lanes is located at 1740 N. Pinal Ave, 520-836-7304, Casa Grande.

Sign Ups Today for the Virtue PBA Experience League

by: Tawna McDonald

The Virtue PBA League is open to all calibers of bowlers. The main objective of the league is to have fun in a competitive match play format. Majority of the bowlers utilize this league to learn to adjust to the different patterns and topography of the lanes. This coming season we are learning to Master the lanes.

I have been running this league now for approximately 5 years. I am looking for bowlers who are willing to challenge themselves and learn to grow their own bowling. We have Virtue Bowling Supply as our sponsor and I couldn't ask for a better team then those there.

The league bowls at Bowlero

Mesa, 1754 W. Southern Ave. Practice starts at 6:30pm Monday nights, beginning August 21st. I am looking forward to another season. To signup or for additional information I can be contacted at tmcdonald.cbl@gmail.com or 509290-3966

Sun City High Scores

Weekly league high games and series as reported by www.LeagueSecretary.com. BELL

Trios) Martin Purnell 290 (Summer Traveling Scratch Trios)

Randy Blunck 279 (Practice Up)

MEN'S HIGH SERIES Randy Blunck 761 (Practice Up) Tyler Perry 717 (Employee and Friends)

Derek Lewis 716 (Practice Up)

WOMEN'S HIGH GAME

Lora Summers-Franklin 263 (Summer Traveling Scratch Trios)

Talia Wooten 235 (Friday Fun Times)

Chris Gonos 234 (Employee and Friends)

WOMEN'S HIGH SERIES

Talia Wooten 636 (Friday Fun Times)

Kim Monroe 624 (Practice Up)

Jeanette Higgins 610 (Practice Up)

July 16-22, 2023

MEN'S HIGH GAME

Tracy Stevenson 290 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

William Graham 289 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

Mike Dirmyer 279 (Employee and Friends)

MEN'S HIGH SERIES

Mike Dirmyer 759 (Employee and Friends)

Rich Stroman 726 (Practice Up)

Randy Blunck 720 (Practice Up)

WOMEN'S HIGH GAME

Andrea Lewis 247 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

Dawn Bounds 228 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

Lori Williams 226 (Ladies Summer Match Point)

WOMEN'S HIGH SERIES

Sonja Echeverria 619 (Employee and Friends)

Lori Williams 619 (Ladies Summer Match Point)

Talia Wooten 589 (Employee and Friends)

July 23-29, 2023

MEN'S HIGH GAME

William Graham 279 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

William Cross 279 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

Tracy Dumas 278 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

Sean Beck 278 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

MEN'S HIGH SERIES

Gary Demeny 711 (Practice Up)

Tracy Stevenson 695 (Practice Up)

Richard Souddress 689 (Friday Fun Times)

WOMEN'S HIGH GAME

Lora Summers-Franklin 261 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

Kim Monroe 244 (Practice Up)

Dawn Bounds 242 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trios)

WOMEN'S HIGH SERIES

Lori Williams 626 (Ladies Summer Match Point)

Kim Monroe 600 (Practice Up)

Debbie Coleman 585 (Employee and Friends)

July 30-August 5, 2023

MEN'S HIGH GAME

Curtis Aemisegger 300 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trio)

Randy Norton 289 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trio)

Randy Blunck 268 (Practice Up)

MEN'S HIGH SERIES

Randy Blunck 674 (Practice Up)

Michael Vere 650 (Employee and Friends)

Fred Glendenning 648 (Friday Fun Times)

WOMEN'S HIGH GAME

Dawn Bounds 278 (Senior Traveling Scratch Trio)

Nikki Mack 266 (Practice

2023-2024 MPUSBC TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

Bowling Belles (Senior Ladies): September 16-17, 2023 • Lakeview Lanes

Senior Open: Sep 23-24, Sep 30 - Oct 1, 2023

BVL: November 11, 2023 • AMF Union Hills

Classified Senior Masters & Queens: Nov 18, 2023

Senior Masters & Queens: November 19, 2023

Military & Guest Tournament: Dec 9-10, 2023

Youth Open: January 13-14, 2024

Youth Royalty (King, Queen, Duke & Duchess): February 25, 2024

Women’s Championships: March 2-3, 2024

Open Championships: March 16-17, 23-24, 2024

Classified Masters & Princess: May 4, 2024

Masters & Queens: May 5, 2024

Office Hours

Monday-Thursday10am-4pm;closedFridays (OthersHoursAvailablebyAppointment)

Metro Phoenix USBC Association 602-263-9700

3320 W. Cheryl Dr, Ste B-123, Phoenix www.phxusbc.org visit the Metro Phoenix USBC Facebook page

Column Sponsored by: VitalSignsProShop www.vitalsignsbowling.com (see their ad on page 5)

METRO PHOENIX

DESERT BOWLER

TournamentSchedule

to add an upcoming tournament, send tournament information to herb@desertbowler.com

ARIZONA TOURNAMENTS

August 19, 2023

AMF Union Hills

E&BC Classic Worlds Tourn.

August 19, 2023

Glenfair Lanes

9-Pin No-Tap Drop Low

August 19, 2023

Cotton Bowl

Color Pin

August 19, 2023

Bowlero Kyrene

TNBA Phoenix Bowling Senate

No Tap Singles Tournament

August 19, 2023

Plaza Bowl

Northern Arizona Bowlerettes

August 20, 2023

Cotton Bowl

No-Tap

August 20, 2023

Cactus Bowl

TMUSBC Welcome Back Tourn.

August 20, 2023

Cactus Bowl

Sport Shot Sweepers

August 20, 2023

Glenfair Lanes

Red, White and Blue tourn.

August 25-27, 2023

Shake, Rattle & Bowl

(Cliff Castle Casino)

Arizona State USBC

Masters & Queens

August 26, 2023

Glenfair Lanes

9-Pin Scotch Doubles

August 26, 2023

Bowlero Mesa

Baker Doubles

August 2-25, 2023

South Point

High Roller Military Team Classic

August 13-16, 2023

Riverside Lanes (Laughlin)

Laughlin Blast

August 19, 2023

Suncoast Lanes

BTC tournament

September 2-4, 2023

South Point

TAT Las Vegas Open

August 27, 2023

Cotton Bowl

Scotch Doubles

August 27, 2023

AMF McRay

Strike Zone 6 Gamer

August 27, 2023

Cactus Bowl

Sport Shot Sweepers

September 2-4, 2023

AMF McRay

Strike Force Tour

September 3, 2023

Let It Roll Bowl

Format TBD

September 9-10, 2023

Cerbat Lanes

JBT

September 16, 2023

Bowlero Tucson

Pay-It-Forward Fundraiser for Tucson Youth Bowlers

September 16-17, 2023

Lakeview Lanes

MPUSBC Bowling Belles

September 17, 2023

Bowlero Mesa

CBE Open

September 23, 2023

Cactus Bowl

Tucson Senior/Not Senior

Sport Shot Sweeper

September 23, 2023

Cactus Bowl

Tucson Super Senior (65+)

Masters Tournament

September 23-24, 2023

Bowlero Kyrene

MMA Military Classic

Sep 23-24 & Sep 30-Oct 1, 2023

MPUSBC Senior Open

Location TBD

September 29, 2023

Bowlero Mesa

PBA Virtue Bowling Supply

Open Pro-Am

September 30, 2023

Cotton Bowl

Scratch 8 Gamer

October 6-8, 2023

Shake, Rattle & Bowl (Cliff Castle Casino)

TAT Cliff Castle Classic

October 7-8, 2023

Let It Roll Bowl

Arizona State USBC Senior

Women's Championships

October 7-8, 2023

Bowlero Kyrene

JBT

October 14, 2023

Bowlero Via Linda

Bowl for the Cure

October 14-15, 21-23, 2023

Let It Roll Bowl

Arizona State USBC Senior

Open Championships

October 15, 2023

Cactus Bowl

Bowl for the Cure

October 15, 2023

Bowlero Christown

Strike Force Tour

LAS VEGAS & NEVADA TOURNAMENTS

September 2, 2023

Suncoast Lanes

BTC tournament

September 16-17, 2023

National Bowling Stadium

Reno, NV

Storm Youth Championships

September 16, 2023

Sam's Town

BTC tournament

September 23, 2023

Strike Zone (Sunset Station)

Balls & Babes Team Classic

October 7, 2023

Gold Coast

BTC tournament

October 8-13, 2023

Gold Coast

High Roller Columbus Day

Seniors Team Classic

October 21-22 & 28-29, 2023

Riverside Lanes (Laughlin)

Nevada State USBC Senior Singles

October 28, 2023

The Orleans Balls & Babes Doubles

NATIONAL TOURNAMENTS

March 10-November 19, 2023

Hoinke Classic

Western Bowl

Cincinnati, Ohio

August 18-20, 2023

Tenpins & More (Rio Rancho, NM)

New Mexico Open

March 2-July 22, 2024

2024 USBC Open Championships

Las Vegas, NV - South Point Plaza

October 15, 2023

Lakeview Lanes

CBE Senior

October 19-22, 2023

Bowlero Kyrene

Agent Ong Open

October 22, 2023

2nd Annual MMA Youth Fun

Tournament - Location TBD

October 29-30, November 5-6, 2023

Fiesta Lanes

Arizona State USBC Youth Open

October 29, 2023

Let It Roll Bowl

Take Out 10 For Cancer

November 11, 2023

AMF Union Hills

MPUSBC BVL Tournament

November 11, 2023

Cerbat Lanes

BTC Tournament

November 12, 2023

Let It Roll

CBE Open

November 12, 2023

Rim Country Bowl (Payson)

3rd Annual MMA Turkey Trot

November 18, 2023

Classified Senior Masters &

Classified Senior Queens Location TBD

November 19, 2023

Senior Masters & Senior Queens Location TBD

November 24-26, 2023

Mesa East Bowl

TAT Holiday Classic

October 28, 2023

Suncoast Lanes

JBT

October 29, 2023

Strike Zone (Sunset Station)

JBT

November 3-5, 2023

The Orleans

TNBA Western Regional

November 18, 2023

Strike Zone (Sunset Station)

Balls & Babes Turkey Time Trios

April 27-June 29, 2024

2024 USBC Women's Championships

Reno, NV - National Bowling Stadium

NORTHERN Arizona Bowlerettes

by Karen Blomgren NAZB VP

It was quite the warm day in Prescott on Saturday, July 15th, 2023, when the ladies began to arrive at Plaza Bowl, the center they like to call home! The NORTHERN Arizona Bowlerettes were gathering for their 11th tournament of the season. For the second month in a row, Prez Linda Tilley had to do some quick work to find us a bowling center for our July tournament as Rim Country Lanes in Payson was unable to host us. We can never go wrong with Plaza Bowl: awesome quick thinking Prez Linda!! We had 64 ladies signed up for this tournament, and 64 ladies burned up the lanes (pun intended: it was hot in Prescott!)!

As always, the officers and directors were ready to go early. The ladies like to gather early and

chat with each other, and as more came in, the volume went up! And the smiles were in evidence as they greeted each other! We don’t need music, just the happy voices of ladies enjoying each other’s company!

The check-in table was a busy one from the get-go! Sec/Treas Pam Cirasole was checking ladies in and collecting their money. Some paid for bowling, some for the End-of-Season banquet, and some even paid for next season’s renewal fees! Pam was a busy lady! Next to her was VP Karen Blomgren who was handing out tickets for our drawing for a free entry for August, handing out entry forms for August, AND handing out cards for a free game at either Antelope Lanes or Plaza Bowl. The owner, Brian Miller, wanted those cards handed out to encourage the ladies to try out Antelope

Lanes where String Pinsetters have just been installed! Next to VP Karen was Director Ann Monagle who was rapidly selling 50/50 tickets. Director Gracie Dominick was next to her also rapidly selling raffle tickets for 3 wonderful raffle prizes created by Prez Linda Tilley.

Next to the raffle prizes were the birthday goodies set out by VP Karen Blomgren. These ladies are special, and we want to celebrate their special day! Happy July Birthday to: Nancy Johnston (7/2), Norma Gillett (7/5), Claire Mulliner (7/6), Gracie Dominick (7/7), Lorrie Goeke (7/7), Myrna Dragon (7/7), Jen Tidroski (7/16), Olga Rodstrom (7/18), Deb Fincher (7/20), Dawna Solymos (7/27), Linda Evans (7/28), Michelle Broxmeyer (7/29), and Mary Robinson (7/31). Happy birthday ladies! Hope your day was/is extra

special!

Time for some congratulations! First, a super huge congratulations goes out to NAZB member Brenda Peaslee! She was just elected to be a Board Member of Central Arizona USBC! We are proud of you; you’ll do a grand job! Also congratulations go out to the elected officers for our 20232024 season: Prez Linda Tilley, VP Karen Blomgren, & Sec/Treas Pam Cirasole!

Winners?? You want winners?? We have lots of happy ladies who mastered No-tap bowling on Saturday. In Division #1 (ladies with averages up to and including 145), Jen Tidroski (819) was the top, top, top bowler (and it was her first tournament!)!! Way to go Jen! She was followed by Norma Cox (740), Monika Menser (737), Shirley Stephenson (730), Sherron Steinman (723), Sande Bobango (713), Barbara Palmer (702), Pam Cirasole (701), Belinda Patrizi (695), Grace Dominick (692), Michelle Broxmeyer (690), Linda Tilley (690), Mary Robinson (683), and Juliette Piercy (680). Fourteen ladies out of forty-three placed in Division #1. Super Duper bowling ladies!

Time for more scores! In Division #2 (ladies with averages of 146 and above), Karen Blomgren (808) was the tippety-top bowler! Nice bowling Karen! She was followed by Brenda Hoff (797), Valerie Ames (764), Cathy David (736), Loretta Hood (727), Pam Frendian (727), and Karen Freyslaben (721). Seven ladies out of twenty-one in Division #2 placed; way to go ladies!

Winners, winners, and MORE winners! Find your tickets! Patty Willis was excited to have her number drawn for a free entry in August! The following ladies came zooming up as their numbers were announced for 50/50 & raffle prizes: Myrna Dragon, Gail Jedlund x 2 (yup, double winner!), Toni Sherrill, Chris Healy, and Dawn Howle! Congratulations ladies!

The ladies will finish their 20222023 season on Saturday, August 19th, 2023, bowling 3 games at Plaza Bowl (another yippee!). Bowling begins at 11:00A.M. If you are cooling off in our area that day, come watch some hot bowling! Sorry you won’t be able to bowl unless you are a NORTHERN Arizona Bowlerette, because we PACK, PACK, PACK THE PLAZA!

The NORTHERN Arizona Bowlerettes are a spectacular group of ladies of all ages from all over Northern, Central, & Western Arizona. Ladies do NOT have to be sanctioned to bowl with this group. If this sounds good to you, please contact Sec/Treas Pam Cirasole (928-227-1258). New members are always joyfully welcomed!

Baker Doubles at Bowlero Mesa; July 29, 2023

Mesa Metro USBC Association

950 W. Birchwood Ave, Suite 2 Mesa, AZ 85210 • 480-969-6944

www.bowlmesa.com

by: Kristi Thompson

Congratulations to our July winners!

We had 84 entries. 44 in our 370 division and 40 in our 430 cap and we raised $168 for the Mesa Strikers youth bowlers.

21 teams made cashing rounds. We paid out $4370 in prize money, and $1362 in side pots. We had a few come close to getting the 300 pot, but it eluded them once again. Our 300 pot rolled over and now sits at $1166

The Strike Pot is at $846

I want to take a second and thank Justin Foos, whose been live streaming our finals to our Facebook. I'd also like to thank Deirdre Rose for volunteering your Saturday. I much appreciate you both.

“Thank You”

370 Division: Finals came down to Steve Cordes/Curtis Stock vs Michael Hegarty/Isaias Galarza, with Michael & Isaias pulling off the win 235-185

High Games paid out $76 to each team: David Cash/Russ Rohlicek 225, Steve/Curtis split game 2 with Rene Raudales/Cecil Carrasco 223, Game 3 split between Kevin Curtis/Francisco Rodriguez & Kenny Koen/Joe Quihuis 257, Tricia Todd/ Lee Borne 259, Andre Dozier/Edmond Smith 276, and Dan Friedline/ Sonny James 228

High Series paid $222: Edmond & Andre - 1277

430 Division: Finals were Barry Gilitiuk/Gary Kresse vs Sean Casey/ Derek Hamm. Sean & Derek got the win 224-189.

High Games paid out $76 each team: Game 1 split Justin Foos/ Shawn Grant & Jeremy Simpson/Justin Simpson 268, Jeremy/ George 269, Jared Kapoor/David Black 248 & 299, Sean Casey/Derek Hamm 277 & 295

High Series paid $228: Jeremy Opp/George Pasalano - 1502

Don't miss the next Bakers Doubles at Bowlero Mesa is set for August 26th. See you all then!

USBC Debuts New Membership Benefit, First Frame Powered by Bowlers Journal; USBC Online Membership Portal Upgraded

ARLINGTON, Texas – The United States Bowling Congress announced the debut of First Frame powered by Bowlers Journal, a free digital offering emailed to USBC members.

First Frame features select articles and photos from the latest edition of Bowlers Journal International. Through First Frame, USBC members will enjoy player features, instructional articles, tips and insights from the pros, and the latest news from the world of bowling.

“First Frame provides our members a sample of what a full edition of Bowlers Journal has to offer,” said USBC President Melissa McDaniel. “We’re proud to provide this content to USBC members and we think they’ll enjoy the benefit of having it emailed to them each month.”

Through First Frame, members have access to selected content from the current issue of BJI. Full editions of BJI offer instructional articles, expanded tournament coverage, profiles on players from the youth level to the pros and seniors, features on bowling history and interesting takes on all things bowling from BJI columnists.

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE FOR 2023-24 SEASON

Tournament Entry Forms Now Available at Local Bowling Centers & on our website

www.bowlmesa.com

5th Annual Mesa Metro Military Classic

September 23-24, 2023 @ Bowlero Kyrene

2nd Annual Youth Fun Tournament

October 22, 2023 @ TBD

3rd Annual Turkey Trot

November 12, 2023 @ Rim Country Lanes (Payson)

2023/24 Sr. & Super Sr. Masters / Sr. Queens

As noted, the benefit of receiving First Frame comes with being a USBC member. For those interested in joining the USBC, or for those renewing their membership, the USBC has completed an upgrade of its online membership portal that makes it even easier and more efficient to join or renew a membership online.

Using the modernized online registration system provides members immediate access to their membership card. Buying your membership online is the no-hassle, streamlined way to gain access to all the benefits a USBC membership provides, including access to the new First Frame powered by Bowlers Journal offering.

The new online membership portal is optional. Members can still join USBC through the traditional membership form at their local league.

For information on how to get access to First Frame, powered by Bowlers Journal, go to: BOWL. com/FirstFrame.

To use the online registration system to purchase or renew a USBC membership, head to: BOWL.com/join.

December 2, 2023 @ TBD

33rd Annual Sr Open Championship

January 6-7, 2024 @ TBD

19th Annual Youth Tournament

January 20 & 21, 2024 @ TBD

68th Annual Women’s Championships

February 3 & 4, 2024 @ TBD

67th Annual Open Championship

February 17,18 & 24,25, 2024 @ TBD

40th Masters

March 9, 2024 @ TBD

2024 Queens

March 10, 2024 @ TBD

Belmonte Is Just That Good

by Dave Williams

Growing up in the tiny community of Sebastopol, California, most noted as the residence of Peanuts cartoonist Charles M. Schulz in those days, also had its share of notable bowlers that one could sit and watch on any given day for hours. Ron Lisher, Bruce Lofgren, Steve Wallack, Tony Kozlowski, Marlin Shimizu and countless others could be viewed as they honed their craft on the drives at L & L Lanes. A couple of these men averaged above the 200 mark at a time when it was considered “as scarce as hen’s teeth.”

The greatest bowler of them all in that era was Don Carter of St. Louis, the first million dollar athlete in any sport. Everyone had to have the ball that he made famous, the Don Carter Gyro Balanced Ball by Ebonite. My parents drove me to Oakland, Calif., to meet George Gee, the best ball driller in the area. My average improved greatly with the purchase of the Gyro, and soon I was aver-

aging over 200 in junior leagues. Today a similar story must be taking place in many towns around the world, as the image of two handed bowler Jason Belmonte has changed the game of bowling, perhaps like no other athlete in any sport, for at least a generation. Some have com-

pared Belmonte to Tiger Woods in golf, or even Babe Ruth or Shohei Ohtani in baseball. But when you add to his record the revolutionary two handed style employed by Belmo, you begin to see the overall impact he’s had on every facet of bowling.

A recent article in GQ Magazine (“The Man Who Broke Bowling”) brought to light the amazing accomplishments of the 39 year old Belmonte. Author Eric Wills put into words what many of us have known for more than a decade… Belmonte is just that good! Wills writes, “When he first alighted on the scene, Belmo, as he’s known to his fans, resembled an alien species: one that bowls with two hands.”

Wills continues, “He uses two fingers (and no thumb) on his right hand, palms the front of the ball with his left, and then, on his approach, which is marked by a distinctive shuffle step, rocks the ball back before launching it with a liquid, athletic whip, his delivery producing an eye popping hook, his ball striking the pins like a mini mortar explosion.”

To say that Belmonte has ruffled a few feathers would be putting it mildly. “He’s been called a cheat and told to go back to his native Australia,” writes Wills. But one of the top pros, Pete Weber, never condemned Belmonte’s style, and often applauds him for his lofty achievements when it comes to victories in the major events like the U.S. Open, Tournament of Champions, USBC Masters, and the like. Another all time great, Walter Ray Williams Jr., has even won a regional event using the two handed method.

In regards to his accomplishments in the majors, Belmonte

now has won 15. That’s four more than anyone else in the history of bowling, and in only 12 years. That is simply amazing. And he’s only 39, which is relatively young in the bowling game. Both Weber and Walter Ray, now in their 60’s, recently announced retirement from the regular tour, but they’re not giving up the PBA50 Tour for pros over the age of 50.

Belmonte now laments his style, which has brought about a new generation of talented players with eye-popping rev rates, according to writer Wills. It has grown more challenging for Jason to maintain his supremacy. “As soon as I feel comfortable, there are 15 other (two handed) guys who are just as comfortable as I am now,” says Belmonte. “You’ve got to be smarter.”

Wills comments on Belmonte’s sense of humor which we highlighted in an earlier column late last year (“Don’t Go There… A History of Two-Hand Bowlers”). In case you missed it, here’s the tongue in cheek video prepared by Belmonte from that article: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=TMWLFxE8fZA&t=21s Belmonte’s sincere approach in this video had me convinced that he was suffering from a rare disease known as singular chirophobia, or fear of using one hand, until viewing the film in its entirety… and even then, I wasn’t fully convinced. Wills says that Belmonte sends messages from his fan account with the tagline, “This email was typed using #2HANDS.”

We have to wonder again, as we did in the article from last year, if Mr. Belmonte is paving the way for another career in Hollywood. His videos make you ask the question… Is singular chirophobia real? We made the comparison to Orson Welles and “The War of the Worlds” radio broadcast from 1938 in that column. Although Welles famous broadcast contained a disclaimer at the beginning of the CBS radio broadcast, if you tuned in late there were many listeners who thought it was real, with creatures emerging from what Welles claimed to be alien spacecraft.

Hmmm. Resembles an alien species… One that bowls with two hands. Perhaps the networks should provide a disclaimer before any telecast that includes the “alien creature” known as Belmo?

Dave's Corner artwork created by Lynn Matsubara of Cal USBC Newsletter

To contact Dave Williams: herb@desertbowler.com

The Belmonte Family at the 2020 PBA World Championship - (left to right) Silvie, Belmonte, wife Kimberly, Aria, and in the foreground, son Hugo. (Photo provided by PBA, LLC)

by Diandra Asbaty

3,500 of this country’s best youth bowlers competed at Junior Gold last month. So many bowlers. Not so many winning spots. Only 8 went home as “champions” after 4 days and 16 games (qualifying, then advancers round, then matchplay rounds).

In the U18 division, against 588 other great girls, Gianna Brandolino found a way to win. It’s a pretty spectacular achievement for anyone, but this was also her first year in the U18 division.

Junior Gold is HARD TO WIN.

A lot of things have to go your way. Gianna is a remarkable bowler – but even when you’re that good, this tournament is a tough one.

Junior Gold always brings up so many memories for me. I bowled the very first Junior Gold – Reno, 1998. The event has grown so much since then. The numbers attending were definitely not 3500 back then. The first event was 1 squad, girls and boys. 1 division. I didn’t know it then, but man was it the beginning of something special.

When I think of Gianna winning Junior Gold this year, I am so proud of her. Mainly because I got to see her journey.

I know how good Gianna is. But… She. Just. Keeps. Proving. Herself.

From my vantage point running EYT, I don’t see just the good part. As youth bowlers rise, I have been able to also witness all of the hard parts.

Gianna started bowling with EYT in 2016. She was a cute little 9-yearold when she joined EYT, and I have very specific memories of going to check in with her to see how it was going.

I remember one day in particular. She was so frustrated that she was in tears and had become a bit huffy. She confessed, “I don’t know what to do. This is so hard.” At that time, she was a preteen, so she was growing quickly, and her emotions were going a bit wild on her. That added to how tough it was for her on the lanes to keep it together. Whether she lost, or just thought she wasn’t doing well enough, these misses were always bringing her to tears.

When you’re young like that, it can be hard to understand why it has to be so difficult. At that age, the level of challenge feels cruel. It’s hard to understand that this is how it works –that you have to grow through those challenges. You have to decide to show back up even when the pins aren’t always falling in your favor –and they often won’t.

It isn’t meant to be easy. In fact, it can’t be easy…or you wouldn’t grow and get better.

In difficult moments, your reaction is a choice.

One choice is to quit. The other choice is to figure it out and work

through it to get better. But figuring it out means showing back up each day, knowing that the day may bring more tears and frustration.

A lot of kids make the choice not to come back and not show up again after frustration and failure. When you’re a kid, you don’t necessarily realize you are making a choice – you are not consciously thinking through it. But you are subconsciously making that choice nonetheless.

Little Gianna had that choice. But champions like Gianna choose to stay. They continue to put themselves in hard situations with the intention of figuring it out. Gianna showed up early, and stayed late. She put in the time. She submerged herself in her game.

In Gianna’s case, I actually know that she made the very conscious decision to continually work on her

(And yes, this is the same Gianna who earlier this month had the honor of presenting the game card at a White Sox game.) She has also won USA bowling with her EYT Phenoms teammates – Landin, Griffin, and Abby.

That little girl who was once brought to tears by the game is now a Junior Gold national champion.

The truth is that there are so many new young bowlers on my tour now. And I see their struggle because it’s hard. They don’t realize that the best in the game, like Gianna Brandolino, were once them.

I always look at the new U12 bowlers arriving at my EYT, and wonder…. Who is the next Gianna Brandolino? Or Landin Jordan? Who will have what it takes to fight through the tears and continue to show up. Who won’t make the excuses but will make the time to fig-

Who else has it in them to keep showing up through it all?

Back when Gianna Brandolino

was a little girl, I wondered which one of them would become the next Mabel Cummings. At that time, Mable was the winningest bowler in EYT history. No one could beat her. She went on to become a Junior Team USA member, winning around the world, and then dominated in college at the very strong NCAA program, Vanderbilt.

Now I see Gianna managing the pressure at the top so well. When you start rising and making waves, that new level presents new challenges. The better you get, the more pressure you face. All of that requires having the right perspective. Otherwise, it can break you. That’s when mental grit becomes just as important. It’s the difference between continuing to show up or running away.

I can’t wait to see how Gianna continues to show up Meet Me Beyond the Lanes, Diandra Asbaty www.beyondthelanes.com

Winners Determined at 2023 USBC Senior Championships

GREEN BAY, Wis. – Champions were determined Friday at The Ashwaubenon Bowling Alley as competition came to a close at the 2023 United States Bowling Congress Senior Championships.

The USBC Senior Championships features bowlers from the United States and Canada who earned their spot through either a state or province senior tournament.

The 2023 event featured 365 bowlers across two divisions –Women’s and Mixed – in six agebased classifications – 50-54, 5559, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75 and older.

Competition kicked off Wednesday with the first of two three-game blocks of qualifying. Each division had one block on the tournament’s fresh 40-foot oil pattern, and one block on the burn.

The top six scores in each division after six qualifying games, including handicap, advanced to Friday’s championship rounds.

Qualifying scores were not carried over to the finals, but athletes received bonus pins based on their qualifying position. The top qualifier in each division received 50 bonus pins, while the second seed received 40 pins. Bonus pins decreased by 10 pins for each spot, with the sixth qualifier receiving zero bonus pins.

The championship rounds featured three games, with the winner being determined based on total pinfall, including handicap and bonus pins.

Starting in the Women’s 50-54 classification, Tennessee’s Julie Muse claimed the victory as the top seed, finishing with a 733 total.

In 55-59, Illinois’ Lelia Hamilton posted the largest victory in the women’s division, earning the win by 50 pins with a 743 score. She qualified as the No. 2 seed.

Utah’s Julene Christensen took advantage of her 50 bonus pins as the top seed in Women’s 60-64 to take home the title by six pins over Kansas’ Delois Williams. Christensen finished with a 708 total, while Williams had 702 to place second.

Powered by a 256 to start the finals, Ohio’s Phyllis White rolled to the highest overall score in the women’s division to earn the victory in the 65-69 classification with a 745 total. White was the No. 2 seed.

The biggest jump in the women’s division took place in the 70-74 classification as Arizona’s Luz Corado-Thurman came from the fourth spot to win the national title with a 694 score.

Illinois’ Myrt Stache saved her best game of the 2023 Senior Championships for last as a 183 finish helped her to the top spot in the 75-and-older classification with a 725 total. Stache qualified as the No. 2 seed for the finals.

In Mixed 50-54, North Dakota’s Jesse Smyle recorded the highest overall total in the finals (787)

to claim the top spot as the No. 1 seed.

Utah’s George Stermer (715) edged Kansas’ Jon Bunger (711) by four pins in the 55-59 classification to record the victory. Stermer entered the finals as the No. 2 qualifier.

Nebraska’s Jay Jimenez dominated the Mixed 60-64 classification, winning as the top seed by 79 pins with a 768 total. Jimenez paced qualifying by 156 pins to advance to the finals.

Eugene McNeely of Alberta, Canada, was the only competitor at the 2023 event to make it to the top of the standings from the sixth spot, earning the title in Mixed 65-69 with a 710 total.

A steady performance in the finals helped Idaho’s Denis Casey collect the win in Mixed 70-74 with a 679 score. Casey qualified second in the division.

In the Mixed 75-and-older classification, Alabama’s Phil Pledger qualified as the top seed and took home the victory in the finals with a 764 total.

Each winner at the 2023 event received between $600-$700, based on the number of entries in each classification.

For more information on the USBC Senior Championships, visit BOWL.com/SeniorChamp.

2023 USBC Senior Championships

The Ashwaubenon Bowling Alley; Green Bay, Wis.

(all scores include handicap and

bonus pins)

Women

50-54

1, Julie Muse, Tenn., 733. 2, Rita Holly, Ariz., 710. 3, Kerrie Watson, Manitoba, 658. 4, Nikki Bradley, Neb., 656. 5, Jennifer Nakanishi, S.D., 648. 6, Danielle Bolan, Mont., 573.

55-59

1, Lelia Hamilton, Ill., 743. 2, Holly Niemi, N.D., 693. 3, Sheri Hoffman, Pa., 690. 4, Stacey Harlow, Kan., 671. 5, Marcianne Miller, Mich., 650. 6, Yvonne Macaulay, Ontario, 558.

60-64

1, Julene Christensen, Utah, 708.

2, Delois Williams, Kan., 702. 3, Wendy Kelley, Mont., 679. 4, Linda Murphy, S.D., 662. 5, Cindy Schell, Neb., 627. 6, Ann Splettstaszer, N.D., 606.

65-69

1, Phyllis White, Ohio, 745. 2, Evelyn Testerman, Md., 730. 3, Terry Christensen, Neb., 663. 4, Teresa Anderson, Miss., 638. 5, Pamela Facemyer, W.Va., 618. 6, Harriet Parot, Vt., 273.

70-74

1, Luz Corado-Thurman, Ariz., 694. 2, Carol Griswold, Mass., 681. 3, Gerri Charron, Ontario, 677. 4, Rina Garcia, Alberta, 655. 5, Gabby Burris, Tenn., 632. 6, Juliana Hill, S.D., 616. 75 and older

1, Myrt Stache, Ill., 725. 2, Pauline McEntee, S.D., 705. 3, Beverly Warrington, Idaho, 673. 4, Diane Boudreau, N.C., 672. 5, Gloria

McGonigal, Wyo., 656. 6, Peggy Dunn, Ore., 595.

Mixed

50-54

1, Jesse Smyle, N.D., 787. 2, Collin Young, Ohio, 770. 3, Jeff Rice, Ind., 757. 4, Allan Pomatto, S.C., 723. 5, Johnny Nguyen, Calif., 674. 6, Mike Lewis, Del., 572.

55-59

1, George Stermer, Utah, 715. 2, Jon Bunger, Kan., 711. 3, John Leong, Hawaii, 701. 4, Christopher Soltis, Ontario, 641. 5, Keith Bowman, N.M., 636. 6, John Jacobs, Ariz., 614.

60-64

1, Jay Jimenez, Neb., 768. 2, Miles Nerona, British Columbia, 689. 3, Gary Moore, Ind., 672. 4, Arnold Huska, Manitoba, 663. 5, Bernie Groshong, Mont., 627. 6, James Tramble, La., 605.

65-69

1, Eugene McNeely, Alberta, 710. 2, Lorenz Wall, Ohio, 700. 3, Ellen Beckwith, N.Y., 685. 4, Charles Hyles, Texas, 684. 5, Ty Coffield, Del., 656. 6, David Greener, Ind., 645.

70-74

1, Denis Casey, Idaho, 679. 2, Dennis Barrett, Ky., 638. 3, Stephen Martin, Ill., 633. 4, Bill Rhea, Tenn., 618. 5, Orest Kryschuk, Manitoba, 562. 6, Allen Christensen, Neb., 538.

75 and older

1, Phil Pledger, Ala., 764. 2, Joe Littlecharley, Okla., 728. 3, Daniel Leavell, Miss., 630. 4, Richard Willms, Wis., 624. 5, Donald Warfield, Md., 608. 6, Franklin Logan, Ill., 569.

Women 50-54: 1, Julie Muse, Tenn., 733. 2, Rita Holly, Ariz., 710. 3, Kerrie Watson, Manitoba, 658. 4, Nikki Bradley, Neb., 656. 5, Jennifer Nakanishi, S.D., 648. 6, Danielle Bolan, Mont., 573.

Women 70-74: 1, Luz Corado-Thurman, Ariz., 694. 2, Carol Griswold, Mass., 681. 3, Gerri Charron, Ontario, 677. 4, Rina Garcia, Alberta, 655. 5, Gabby Burris, Tenn., 632. 6, Juliana Hill, S.D., 616.