Local bowlers strive for perfect game
Monday evenings are busy at Legacy Lanes as bowlers strive for that perfect 300 game. Some locals have reached that goal while others are close. Shown are: kneeling – Scott Fowler and Tony West, back row – Jeff Oswald, Kathy Rowe, Steve Gentile, Nick Hammersley, Michael Adams and Becky Oswald. (Jen Jones)
Legacy Lanes has seen several people bowl perfect games since they reopened after being closed due to COVID – 19. According to Jeff Oswald, co-owner, the new lanes are synthetic, so they are more consistent and offer more pin action. A perfect game is a score of 300 – which means a strike in every frame.
Kathy Rowe has been bowling since she was 12-years-old. She loves the challenge of the sport and competing. She bowls in three leagues and her high score is 265 with a 627 series. A series is three games. “It’s just a lot of fun. It’s a challenging game and takes lots of practice. We always have a good time and they have great food there that isn’t too expensive.”
Scott Fowler has bowled one 300 game in a 786 series. “It takes a lot of practice and focus. If anyone wants to learn, they just need to stop by the bowling alley. There is always people here to help them get started and to find a ball that fits. We have kids that are 3-years-old and one that is 96. Any age can have fun bowling and it’s a great family activity.”
Becky Oswald has been bowling in leagues since 2005. She bowled with friends before joining the leagues. Her highest score is around 240 with a 602 series. “It takes a lot of practice, but it’s so much fun with friends or family. There is no age limit – as long as you can pick up a ball, you can bowl. Kids love to bowl. They get so excited when they knock down a pin.”
“River View has a bowling team and it’s so cool to see the athletes improve and have fun. Bowling offers them a sport to try when they might not have played anything,” said Becky.
Nick Hammersley grew up in the bowling alley. “I’ve bowled since I was a kid.” He has bowled two 300 games and an 808 series. “Some say it’s luck, but it’s skill, too. You have to hit your mark and follow through. Bowling is my life – my whole family bowls.”
He said he enjoys bowling because it’s a good time to hang out with friends and it’s a great family atmosphere. “The bowling alley feels like a good place to be when you walk in.”
Tony West has bowled 10 300 games with an 817 series. He has been bowling since 2003 and his advice to anyone who wants to perfect their game is to learn the game early, bowl often and do it forever.
Legacy Lanes also offers an arcade and restaurant with eat-in and take out service.
