Bowlers place at nationals

by Ginger Ward

Green Bay, Wisconsin's Ashwaubenon Bowling Alley was the site of the 2023 National Senior Bowling Tournament. Twelve bowlers from Montana were eligible to participate in this tournament. Six women, one from each of the six age divisions and six participants from the open division, one from each of the six age divisions. The qualifying tournament for Montana was held in Miles City in October 2022. Wendy Kelley and Bernie Groshong both qualified in their divisions. Their entry fee was paid by the Montana United States Bowling Congress as well as receiving a tournament jersey. This is a singles touranment consisting of six qualifying games.

If a bowler is in the top six in their division they advance to the championship rounds. The championship rounds feature three games and the bowlers rolling the top scores, including handicap and bonus points, will earn the title for their division. Bonus points are awarded on their placement in the first six games. Kelley placed third and Groshong fifth when all was said and done. Nearly 400 bowlers age 50 and up competed in this tournament. Canadian bowlers can also qualify for this tournament.

Helena had one lady bowler competing for the championship in her division, Danielle Bolan, owner of Sleeping Giant Lanes in Helena. She placed sixth. The state senior tournament for 2023 will be held in Hamilton from Septgember 29 to October 15. Any sanctioned league bowler age 50 or over can compete in this tournament. The national location for 2024 has not been announced yet.

Thompson Falls is on schedule to host the tournament for the third time in 2027.