Columnist John McCarron: Wolcott KOs Cefali to take Orleans tournament

KEN WOLCOTT took first place at the Orleans Big Al's Challenge with a fine 2131 series good for $500. George Cefali challenged for first but settled for second with a 2089 score ($250). Veteran senior player Hal Wilbur took third ($150) while steady Rick Freels grabbed the fourth spot ($90).

The next Nevada Tournament Bowlers Alliance event is a mixed doubles at Sunset Lanes May 26 at 10 a.m. Entry fee is $120. Call Wally Fellman at 736-BOWL for reservations.

Trivia time

What is the highest game you can score without a strike?

Gold Coast Shootout

The first Gold Coast Summer Survival Shootout went to Michael Curry (242, $100). George Cefali (228, $69) was second while Bobby Copeland took third.

The Gold Coast Shootout is held every Thursday evening at 11:30 with a $25 entry fee. Call tournament director Jason Gupton (367-4700) for details.

Baird-ed wonder

The Showboat Marathon went to senior Gerald Baird, who coasted to first place with a pin count of 1916 ($400). Another hot player, Ken Wolcott, was second at 1877 ($270).

Other top finishers included: Sandy Bennett 1850 ($185), senior John Cocchi 1803 ($155), Greg Laughman 1802 ($125), Bob McDonough 1799 ($100) and always tough David Haynes 1774 ($80). High game went to Tom McCall with a 299.

The Marathon is contested every Saturday evening with a $65 entry fee. Call Carolyn Staninger (385-9148) for information.

Coming up

The Senior Scratch Bowlers Tour resumes at 10 a.m. Sunday at Santa Fe Lanes. Call tournament director Gary Walters (646-8466) for reservations.

The Gold Coast is hosting the City of Hope Sun City Sumerlin Bowl-A-Rama at 9 a.m. Sunday. The bowlers represent leagues from the Gold Coast, Santa Fe and Sam's Town. The event raises money for the National Medical and Research Center to help fight catastrophic diseases for children. Call Edie Albert (255-9040) for details.

Coach's corner

Summer offers advantages not always available to the player in the winter season, such as lane availability. It's much easier to get a practice lane to improve your game in the summer, and discount times usually are available.

It's a good time to take lessons and research the ever-changing equipment scene in the bowling industry, as well as having your own equipment checked out by your local pro shop. Little things like resurfacing the ball or changing grips can have a huge effect on your performance.

If you're ready to start improving, seek out a qualified instructor for lessons. Lessons cost from $10-40, but are a worthwhile investment.

Next week, we'll begin our journey to better scoring in the summer.

Trivia answer

Surprisingly, if you roll a 9 spare every frame your final score will be a very acceptable (for most players) 190. -- proving spares still count to gain a good score.

Scores

GOLD COAST: Mort Shear 269, Hank Mancini 277, Chris Kasier 234. SHOWBOAT: Kari McLain 226, 603, Dave Strader 300, Tillie Taylor 226, 618, Shirley Smith 225, 600, Louis Domanic 242, Jathery Mason 243, Carmella Michelli 279, Rick Woodruff 276.

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