|
2003/01/31
|
|
【PBA】 U.S. Open 【Round 5】 Williams Takes Over Leaderboard
Walter Ray Williams Jr. Walter Ray Williams Jr. used a 7-1 record to take the lead after the first round of match play at the 60th U.S. Open, presented by Jackson Hewitt Tax Service at Fountain Bowl. Williams, Ocala, Fla., moved into the top spot after posting a 35-game pinfall total of 7,749. His only loss of the evening was to defending champion Mika Koivuniemi, who rolled 278. "My goal was to hit the pocket eight times each game," said Williams, the 1998 U.S. Open champion. "I've got a decent ball reaction now, and luckily for me the pins are cooperating." Williams, the No. 1-ranked player on the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour, was in 144th place after the first day of qualifying, but made a big charge in the second and third qualifying rounds. In his eight matches this evening, Williams only had four open frames. "To only have four opens is amazing on this condition," said Williams. "As long as I continue to make good shots, everything will fall into place." Michael Haugen Jr., Victorville, Calif., remained in second place with a 7,6,77 total. The 36-year-old posted a 5-3 match play record, and is 72 pins behind Williams. "Walter Ray is a great frontrunner, and he's not the type to give the lead away," said Haugen. "My goal is to stay patient and stay consistent. If I do that, then I know I have a chance to bowl for the title." Making the largest move of the evening was two-time U.S. Open champion Pete Weber, St. Ann, Mo. The PBA Hall of Famer began match play in 14th place, but moved into third with a 7,535 score. Early leader Ryan Shafer fell from first to fourth after posting a 3-5 match play record for a 7,531 total. Rounding out the top five was Tom Baker, who won seven of eight games to move into fifth place at 7,528.
Shafer Hangs On
Ryan Shafer It wasn't pretty, but Ryan Shafer was able to hang on to the top spot at the 60th U.S. Open, presented by Jackson Hewitt Tax Service at Fountain Bowl. Shafer, Elmira, N.Y., showed moments of mediocrity during the nine-game round. Four of Shafer's games were under 200, including a low game of 161. But Shafer saved himself by rolling 254 in game two and 269 in game eight to hold on to the lead with a 5,822 score. "I didn't look like the guy who bowled the last three days," said Shafer, a three-time winner on the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour. "My equipment didn't match up well with the conditions, and it showed for most of the day." Shafer said he watched other players in the way they attacked the lanes, something he usually doesn't do. "My ball roll is pretty unique, so I don't watch other players very often," said Shafer. "I don't do it until I am totally lost, and there were a few times today when that was the case." With the qualifying rounds coming to a close, Shafer is optimistic about the match play competition. "Now the real tournament begins," said Shafer. "This morning was a wake-up call. The way I bowled today will motivate me to stay on top for the rest of the week." Moving up to second was Haugen, Victorville, Calif. He began the day in third place, and used a 269 opening game on his way to a 5,776 total. "I'm surprised that I'm doing so well," said Haugen, a non-winner on the Tour. "I'm not really comfortable playing a deep inside angle, but that's the way to score this week." Former U.S. Open titlist Walter Ray Williams Jr. had the round of the day, as he moved up from eighth place to third. The 1998 Open winner recorded a 2,004 total for nine games (222.67) for a 5,757 overall score. Defending U.S. Open champion Mika Koivuniemi slipped from second place to fourth with 5,744, and Rick Steelsmith rounded out the top five with a 5,684 score. |
|
2003/01/30
|
| 【PBA】 U.S. Open 【Round 3】
Shafer Leads the Open
Ryan Shafer Ryan Shafer averaged 219 for 18 games to retain the lead after three rounds of the 60th U.S. Open, presented by Jackson Hewitt Tax Service at Fountain Bowl Shafer, Elmira, N.Y., started slow in his third round of qualifying, rolling games of 181 and 194. But the three-time Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) champion rebounded with games of 231, 239, 206 and 235. His 3,944 total is 14 pins ahead of defending champion Mika Koivuniemi. "The lanes were hooking more today than they were yesterday," said Shafer. "I tried to use a ball that wasn't very aggressive, but I wasn't able to control the pocket like I wanted to. I threw harder and it got me back on track." The 36-year-old says that he feels confident that he can win his first major championship this week. "I won't feel as much pressure this week as I would with the normal PBA format," said Shafer. "By having the lead and being able to carry our pins through to the finals, there isn't a sense of urgency. I won't be anxious as I compete." Koivuniemi, a native of Finland, entered the third round of qualifying tied for fourth place, and moved into second place after recording a 3,930 score. His final six game block of 1,348 was the best of his three qualifying rounds. "I'm happy with the way I'm repeating shots and my consistency," said the 35-year-old. "I've been fortunate that I can play my 'A' game this week. I can get away with lofting the ball and using a lot of speed, which are my strengths." Michael Haugen Jr., Victorville, Calif., moved from eighth place to third with a 3,867 total. Baltimore's Danny Wiseman had the highest block of the day on his way to third place with 3,816. Wiseman, a 10-time Tour champion, posted a 1,419 score in the third round (236.5 average). Rounding out the top five are 13-time champion Randy Pedersen, Hollywood, Fla., and amateur Nathan Bohr, Wichita, Kan., who are tied at 3,799. |
|
2003/01/29
|
| 【PBA】 U.S. Open 【Round 2】
Time of the Essence for Shafer
Ryan Shafer If the time is now for Ryan Shafer to win a major championship, he certainly showed it in the second qualifying round at the 60th U.S. Open, presented by Jackson Hewitt Tax Service at Fountain Bowl. Shafer, Elmira, N.Y., took over first place by posting a 2,658 score (221.5 average) for 12 games. He says he learned from the mistakes he made on the first day of qualifying. "I had the same ball reaction I had yesterday, but I was quicker with my adjustments today," said Shafer, who had a high game of 276 and a low game of 189. "I took advantage of my good pairs and didn't panic when I had an open frame." In last year's event, Shafer finished in fifth place, one spot away from the four-player stepladder finals. The 36-year-old has finished third twice in the Open, and is optimistic about his chances this season. First round co-leader Jason Duran, Greeley, Colo., fell to second place with a score of 2,632. Jason Queen, Oreana, Ill, is in third with a 2,620 total. Also in contention are defending champion Mika Koivuniemi, Ann Arbor, Mich., and Rick Steelsmith, Wichita, Kan. The two are tied for fourth place with a 2,582 score. |
|
2003/01/28
|
| 【PBA】 U.S. Open 【Round 1】
Two Tied for Lead at 60th US Open Don DuPree II and Jason Duran each averaged 226.67 for six games for a share of the lead at the 60th U.S. Open, presented by Jackson Hewitt Tax Service at Fountain Bowl. DuPree, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., and Duran, Greeley, Colo., posted identical six game scores of 1,360 to lead after the first round of qualifying was complete. A touring pro for seven years, DuPree said he did the most damage in his early games. "I had a really good ball reaction the first three games," said DuPree, who had a high game of 276. "I didn't make the correct adjustments on the last couple of games, but I'm fortunate I could be on top." Duran, a second-year pro, said he struggled to find a strike line during practice. But he found himself with a good reaction this afternoon, starting his day with a 267 game. "It's always good to get off to a good start," said Duran. "But I know not to get too excited about being in first place. This is a long tournament, and it will take a lot of patience to win." Jason Queen, Oreana, Ill., is currently in third place with 1,353. Queen, the 1997 American Bowling Congress Masters champion, averaged 225.5 for his six qualifying games. Mike Danielson, Nuevo, Calif., is in fourth with a 1,335 score, while John May, Lincolnton, N.C., placed fifth with 1,332. |
|
2003/01/23
|
| 【PBA】 PBA Storm Las Vegas Classic 【Final】
Lonnie Lucky in Vegas
Lonnie Waliczek The third time was the charm for Lonnie Waliczek at the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Storm Las Vegas Classic Presented by Castaways Hotel, Casino and Bowling Center. Waliczek, Wichita, Kan., used his experience from two championship round appearances in the 2002-03 season to defeat Patrick Allen, Tarrytown, N.Y., 260-246 in the title match. The win gave the sixth-year pro his first title and $40,000. "It is such a great feeling to win," said Waliczek, who finished second at last year's PBA World Championship. "I knew if I could find my comfort zone, I would be tough to beat." The 32-year-old entered the championship round with the best match play record of the five finalists. In the first semifinal match, Waliczek defeated five-time champion Tim Criss, Bel Air, Md., 237-213. A string of five strikes from frames three through seven proved to be the difference for Waliczek, as he moved into the finals against Allen. The championship match evolved into a back-and-forth battle between Waliczek and Allen. With one pin separating the competitors, Waliczek and Allen traded strikes from the 5th frame to the 10th frame. Allen was the first to finish, striking on his first ball in the 10th. But his second shot in the 10th missed the head pin to the left, leaving the 1-3-9. Waliczek slammed the door shut with three strikes in the 10th frame for the 260-246 decision and his first title. "I like it when it gets like that," said Waliczek of his battle with Allen. "Matches like that are what make this sport exciting. That's what we're here for." Waliczek's win moved him from 16th to 10th in the PBA World Rankings, a testament to his work ethic. "My goal this year was to become more consistent," said Waliczek. "The fact that I've made three championship round appearances gives me the motivation to work harder. There's still a lot of bowling to be done this season." On his way to the title match, Allen beat a pair of Hall of Famers. In the wild card match, Allen beat Walter Ray Williams Jr., Ocala, Fla., 257-248. He then beat Amleto Monacelli, Venezuela, 258-246. Allen used clutch strikes in the 10th frames of both matches to advance to the finals. Criss and Monacelli both received $10,000 for third place, while Williams earned $9,000 for fifth. |
|
2003/01/22
|
|
【JPBA】 男子上半期トーナメント出場優先順位決定戦 【第２日目】 安斉 勇二
One Way or Another
Walter Ray Williams Jr. Even when Walter Ray Williams Jr. loses, he still manages to come out a winner. Such was the case at the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Storm Las Vegas Classic Presented by Castaways Hotel, Casino and Bowling Center. Williams, Ocala, Fla., was on the losing side of a three-games-to-two decision against Lonnie Waliczek in their best-of-five game match in the Round of 8. But the five-time Player of the Year qualified for his eighth championship round appearance of the season as the wild card. "It's a surprise to me that I've made so many shows," said Williams, who leads the Tour in earnings, average and points. "Before the season started, I would have been content to make four or five shows. Now that I've made my eighth show, anything else I accomplish this season is gravy." Williams faces Patrick Allen in the wild card match. Allen, Tarrytown, N.Y., continued his stellar play by defeating two-time Las Vegas champion Ryan Shafer 3-2. Undaunted by a 299 opening game by Shafer, Allen beat Shafer 245-236 in the fifth and final game to secure his place in the championship round. "Ryan was the better bowler, but somehow I found a way to win," said Allen, who trailed in every head-to-head match. "It's going to be tough to win three matches, but as long as I don't bowl in fear, I like my chances." The winner of the wild card match will face Hall of Famer Amleto Monacelli. The Venezuelan won at Las Vegas in 1988, and is seeking his first title since 1997. Waliczek, Wichita, Kan., will make his third championship round appearance of the season. He faces off with Tim Criss, Bel Air, Md., who beat Rick Steelsmith in their Round of 8 match. Criss, a five-time champion, is making his first finals appearance of the season.
Allen Tops Weber
Patrick Allen Patrick Allen ended Pete Weber's run to the championship round at the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Storm Las Vegas Classic Presented by Castaways Hotel, Casino and Bowling Center. Allen, Tarrytown, N.Y., overcame a two-games-to-one deficit to beat the Hall of Famer 3-2, and qualified for the Round of 8 tonight. "Match play can fool you sometimes," said Allen, who won his first title in Taylor, Mich., last season. "Just when you think one bowler is going to dominate a match, the other bowler can turn the match all around." Allen and Weber traded blowout victories in the first two games before Weber took control in game three, winning 265-246. But Allen turned up the intensity and won the final two games, 266-184 and 248-243, respectively. "I was down 2-1 against one of the greatest bowlers of all time," said Allen. "I knew that if I was going down, I would go down swinging. I'm glad I could step up my level of play to advance." Allen will face Ryan Shafer, who defeated Joe Ciccone in a match that also went five games. Shafer could have wrapped up the match in game four but left a 4-6-7 split to lose the game 203-201. Shafer, a three-time champion, rebounded in game five to beat Ciccone 216-204. By merit of having the least overall losses heading into tonight (7-2), the loser of tonight's Walter Ray Williams Jr. vs. Lonnie Waliczek match will be the wild card qualifier for Thursday's finals. Williams advanced to the Round of 8 with a 3-2 decision over Steve Jaros. He fell behind 2-1, before rolling games of 266 and 265 to move into the Round of 8. Williams faces Waliczek, who advanced with a 3-1 decision over Eugene McCune. Williams will earn his eighth championship round appearance this season (16 events) while Waliczek will earn his third finals berth. Other matches in the Round of 8 include Tim Criss vs. Rick Steelsmith, and Amleto Monacelli vs. Bob Learn Jr. |
|
2003/01/21
|
|
【JPBA】 男子上半期トーナメント出場優先順位決定戦 【第１日目】 安斉 勇二
Weber Storms Into Round of 16
Pete Weber The momentum is building for Pete Weber at the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Storm Las Vegas Classic Presented by Castaways Hotel, Casino and Bowling Center. Weber, St. Ann, Mo., defeated Patrick Healey Jr., Mexico City, four-games-to-two and advanced to the Round of 16 Wednesday. The highlight of the match was a 279-279 tie in game two, which went to a one-ball roll off. Weber won on the third roll-off 10-9 after a pair of 10-10 ties. "I love being in that situation," said Weber, a 28-time winner on the Tour. "It's great to be able to get up in the 10th frame and throw a strike to win." After splitting the first two games with Healey, Weber dropped game three, 235-211, but won the next three games with scores of 265, 243 and 267. "Matches like that are what motivate me to win," said Weber. "I made a slight change to my game last week, and it seems to be paying off." Weber will face Patrick Allen in the Round of 16. The lefthander dropped the first two games to fellow lefthander Mike Scroggins before winning the match 4-2. His match included a 300 game. Amleto Monacelli and Parker Bohn III also tossed perfect games to advance. Monacelli's came in a deciding game against local favorite Wayne Webb, while Bohn rolled his 300 game at the end of his five-game match with Rick Lawrence. In a match-up of PBA Hall of Famers, Walter Ray Williams Jr. swept past Mike Aulby in four straight games. Williams, who finished second at last week's ABC Masters, will face Steve Jaros who also won four straight in his opening match to Brian Waliczek. Top qualifier Brian Voss advances in four games over M.J. Eaton to face Tim Criss in the Round of 16. Criss defeated Jim Pratt 4-1. Other Round of 16 matches include: Monacelli vs. Peter Hernandez; Bohn vs. Brad Angelo; Ryan Shafer vs. Joe Ciccone; Lonnie Waliczek vs. Eugene McCune; and Rick Steelsmith vs. Michael Gaither.
Voss Looks for Title Defense
Brian Voss Brian Voss rolled back-to-back 300 games and averaged 249.28 to qualify on top for tonight's match play rounds in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Storm Las Vegas Classic Presented by Castaways Hotel, Casino and Bowling Center. The 22-time titlist from Atlanta strung 28 strikes in his first three games, which included consecutive perfect games. He started his day with a 247 game before rolling back-to-back 300 games for an 847 three-game series. "That's something I've never done before," said the 44-year-old Hall of Famer. "I had a chance to do it before a few years ago, and I rolled 300-299. The key for me was my ability to score without throwing the ball hard. It made all the difference." Voss, who won last year's tournament in Las Vegas, went on to record games of 269, 289, 224, 267, and 216, for an 18-game total of 4,487. It marks the 11th match play appearance for Voss, who won earlier this season at Memphis, Tenn. "I like my chances this week," said Voss, who faces M.J. Eaton in his first head-to-head match. "This is the same pattern we bowled on in Memphis. Plus I enjoy match play bowling. I'll come in tonight anticipating a good fight in order to advance." Qualifying second was Amleto Monacelli of Venezuela, who averaged 242.28 in posting a 4,361 total. Patrick Healey, Mexico City, fell from second to third with a score of 4,322. First round leader Ryan Shafer fell to 11th place at 4,219. |
|
2003/01/20
|
|
Vegas Magic Continues
Ryan Shafer Ryan Shafer continued his Las Vegas hot streak by taking the early lead at the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Storm Las Vegas Classic Presented by Castaways Hotel, Casino and Bowling Center. Shafer, Elmira, N.Y., rolled a 300 game on his way to a 2,264 total (251.56 average) for nine games. The 36-year-old won his first PBA title in Las Vegas back in 2000 at The Orleans, and defended his title the following year. This season, the Tour returns to its original Las Vegas home of 39 years (1960-1999). "There's got to be something in the air," said Shafer of his success in Las Vegas. "With me winning here twice, the crowd got behind me and it gave me a good feeling out there." Shafer started his qualifying round with a 245 game before rolling 300. He followed with games of 248 and 229 before rolling 190, his lowest game. "I've struggled with this particular oil pattern in past tournaments," said Shafer of the PBA's "B" oil pattern, one of five unique conditions used throughout the season. "It was the only time I struggled all day. I figured it out at the end, but by that time, it was too late." Shafer rebounded with games of 278, 237, 279 and 258. He said the pace of the games were key to his high scoring. "I bowled on a pair where the pace was pretty quick," he said. "When I'm bowling well, I just want to keep going, and we were able to do that today." Patrick Healey Jr., Mexico City, finished qualifying in second place with a 2,214 total, while Cincinnati's Nick Vogelgesang finished third at 2,194. Curtis Woods Jr., Santa Rosa, Calif., is in fourth place with 2,184, and Brad Angelo, Lockport, N.Y., rounds out the top five at 2,169. Regional pro Michael Tountas and six-time titlist Doug Kent each rolled 300 games during the first round of competition. Tountas, Tucson, Ariz., finished in 28th place with a 2,092 total, while Kent, Newark, N.Y., finished in 89th place at 1,959. |
|
2003/01/19
|
|
Smith Takes Major Step
Bryon Smith In his 194th career tournament, Bryon Smith finally broke though at the American Bowling Congress (ABC) Masters at the National Bowling Stadium Sunday. Smith, Roseburg, Ore., won his first Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour title and $100,000 when he defeated hall-of-famer Walter Ray Williams Jr., Ocala., Fla., in the final, 236-220. "You put yourself in an elite crowd when you win a major," said the 29-year-old. "And for this to be my first title makes it even more special." A 10-year-pro, Smith became just the 13th player to win a major for his first title. The last to do it was Robert Smith at the 2000 U.S. Open (Phoenix, Ariz.). The only other to accomplish the feat at the Masters was Mika Koivuniemi, also in 2000 (Albuquerque, N.M.). Smith qualified No. 1 for the stepladder finals as the only undefeated player in the double-elimination tournament. After Williams dusted Norm Duke and amateur Jason Williams in the first two matches, only Smith stood between him and his fourth major crown. Smith opened with six consecutive strikes, while Walter Ray started with five of the first six. The only open frame of the match, a 4-6-7-9 split by Walter Ray in the 7th frame, ended all hopes for a missing piece of the Grand Slam. "That split took all the wind out of me," said Walter Ray who earned $50,000. "Overall, I had a good reaction today. I think I let a title slip away. I'm just disappointed that it was more my fault than the pins. I just didn't execute like I needed to." Walter Ray Williams defeated Jason Williams in the semifinal, 225-178. Jason Williams, Vashon Island, Wash., earned $25,000 in third. In the first match, Walter Ray Williams beat 1993 Masters champion Norm Duke, 264-234. Duke, Clermont, Fla., rounded out the group with $15,000 in fourth. |
|
2003/01/18
|
|
One To Go!
Bryon Smith Bryon Smith has one game standing between him and his first Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) title in the American Bowling Congress (ABC) Masters at the National Bowling Stadium. Smith, Roseburg, Ore., beat 35-time titlist Walter Ray Williams Jr., Ocala, Fla., Saturday evening to earn the first place seed in the live ESPN finals at 12:30 p.m. (ET). The winner of the three-game match was decided by total pinfall, which Smith won 611-588. In the second of four major tournaments on the 2002-03 PBA schedule, the 29-year-old is competing in his first career title match. He must win one game in the stepladder finals to clinch his first victory and the $100,000 prize. "I have one (win) to go," Smith, who will be bowling in his first title match, said. "If there was one championship to pick this would be it - it's a major and the condition has been so demanding. It would be unbelievable." Smith is making his seventh career television appearance and the second of the season. He finished tied for third in the PBA Memphis Open in October, tying his career high finish of third in the 2002 PBA Empire State Open. "This year has been a roller coaster," Smith, who has cashed in 10 of 14 tournaments and made it to match play five times, said. "I haven't been consistent at all and I have struggled." In the first match of the day, Walter Ray will face 20-time PBA champion Norm Duke. Twenty-seven-year-old amateur Jason Williams awaits the winner of the Walter Ray and Duke match. The winner will face Smith in the championship match.
Four Pros vs. Four Amateurs
Walter Ray Williams Jr. Competition continues at the ABC Masters at the National Bowling Stadium, where 16 bowlers are vying for their chance at $100,000. Eight bowlers remain in a bid for Sunday's ESPN finals and their chance at $100,000 in the American Bowling Congress (ABC) Masters at the National Bowling Stadium. In Saturday evening match play, four Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) competitors will meet four amateurs. Hall of Famer and 35-time titlist Walter Ray Williams Jr., Ocala, Fla., will face 1999 ABC Masters champion Brian Boghosian, Feeding Hills, Mass. PBA member Bryon Smith, Roseburg, Ore., and amateur Tim Mack, Garfield, N.J. will also vie to remain undefeated in the winners bracket. In the loser's bracket, amateur Jason Williams will face 10-time PBA champion Bryan Goebel. Twenty-time PBA titlist Norm Duke, Clermont, Fla., will meet amateur Sean Rash, Wichita, Kan. Saturday morning there were 32 bowlers left in match play competition. Competitors in the losers bracket moved through four rounds of match play (three games, pinfall total) while the winner's bracket bowled in two rounds of match play. Highlights of the competition included the only perfect game of the tournament by Brian Himmler, Cincinnati, to eliminate the defending PBA Player of the Year, Parker Bohn III (772-664). Himmler lost in the next round to fellow PBA member Mike Miller (667-645). Duke survived through Saturday match play after being the only professional to face only PBA members in the four rounds of match play in the losers bracket. He eliminated Paul Fleming (653-608), Roberto Silva (737-552), Mika Koivuniemi (676-665) and Lonnie Waliczek (573-547). |
|
2003/01/17
|
|
Sweet Sixteen
Walter Ray Williams Jr. Sixteen players remained undefeated in the winners bracket of the American Bowling Congress (ABC) Masters after match play Friday night at the National Bowling Stadium. Qualifying leader Walter Ray Williams Jr., Ocala, Fla., highlights that group. Williams, Ocala, Fla., won both of his matches featured by the highest three-game series of the night against fellow-pro Nick Vogelgesang, beating him 777-627. In the first round of the winners bracket, Williams pounded fellow Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Hall of Fame member David Ozio, 711-639. Williams will face two-time PBA champion Tommy Delutz Jr. Saturday in the second round. Williams has never won the Masters, one of two majors he's never captured (Tournament of Champions). Of 16 bowlers that remain undefeated, each must win four more matches to claim the top seed for Sunday's stepladder final. Other pros that advanced in the winners bracket were Lonnie Waliczek, Brian Himmler, Jeff Fehr, Mika Koivuniemi (2000 Masters champion), Bryan Goebel, Roberto Silva, Jim Tomek Jr. and Bryon Smith. Filling out the undefeated field are amateurs Brian Boghosian (1999 Masters champion), Jason Williams, Sean Rash, Robert Jakel, Scott Norton and Tim Mack. Mack, Garfield, N.J., sent 20-time PBA champion Norm Duke to the losers bracket with a 675-644 victory. Along with Duke, PBA champions still alive in the losers bracket include Larry Laub, Parker Bohn III and Mike Miller. Defending champion Brett Wolfe, Tempe, Ariz., lost his first two matches and was eliminated. He was beat in the first round by Stephen Frazzetto, E. Northport, N.Y., 611-545, and in the first round of the losers bracket by Robert Worrall, Prescott, Ariz., 668-653.
Enter the Champion
Walter Ray Williams Jr. The match play field is set after the third round of qualifying in the American Bowling Congress Masters Friday afternoon at the National Bowling Stadium. Sixty-three players advanced to match play after 15 games of qualifying over the past three days. Players have been seeded into the double-elimination bracket by random draw. Also, defending champion Brett Wolfe now enters the tournament. |
|
2003/01/16
|
|
WRW At It Again
Walter Ray Williams Jr. After the second qualifying round Thursday in the American Bowling Congress (ABC) Masters at the National Bowling Stadium, 35-time Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour titlist Walter Ray Williams Jr. topped the field. Williams, Ocala, Fla., averaged 236.6 during his five-game block to finish in first place. He started the day with a 277 and followed with 248, 234, 232 and 192 scores, for a 10-game pinfall total of 2,334. The PBA World Points Rankings leader is seeking his second title of the season. His first was at the PBA Greater Detroit Open in October. Williams also leads the Tour with five ESPN finals appearances. Along with his win, the right-hander has two second-place finishes (Vernon Hills, Ill. and Wyoming, Mich.) and three third-place finishes (Wichita, Kan., Latham, N.Y. and Tacoma, Wash.). Tommy Jones, the reigning PBA Rookie of the Year from Greenville, S.C., had the highest five-game series of the tournament (237, 254, 235, 233 and 226) with a pinfall total of 1,185 to finish in second. He is seeking the first title of his career and his ninth match play berth of the season. The 24-year-old finished in fifth place in the PBA Memphis Open in October. In third place, Mike Edwards, Tulsa, Okla., finished with a 223.70 average (2,237). Four-time PBA Tour champion Steve Wilson moved into fourth place (2,231) after averaging 223.70. Rounding out the top five is Roberto Silva, Mexico (2,184). |
|
2003/01/15
|
|
Masters Underway
Lonnie Waliczek Sixth-year pro Lonnie Waliczek set the qualifying pace in the American Bowling Congress Masters yesterday at the National Bowling Stadium. Waliczek, Wichita, Kan., posted a 1,164, five-game pinfall for a tournament-leading 232.8 average. The right-hander, ranked 24th this season on the Professional Bowlers Association Tour, is one of seven pros in the top-10 after the first round. Top-ranked Walter Ray Williams Jr. tied fellow-pro Mike Edwards for second (1,151). Williams, Ocala, Fla., leads the PBA Tour with $133,500 in 14 events this season. The PBA Hall of Fame member has finished in the money every tournament this season, one of only two to do so (Chris Barnes). Edwards, Tulsa, Okla., is looking to earn his second consecutive match play berth. He finished sixth last week at Medford, Ore. A pair of second-year pros, Roberto Silva, Mexico, and Tommy Jones, Greenville, S.C., round out the top five. Silva, who has one match play appearance this season, sits in fourth with 1,132. Jones, the reigning PBA Rookie of the Year, has 1,125 in fifth. Jason Williams, Vashon Island, Wash., and Bob Hale, Louisville, Ky., are the highest amateurs in the field. They are tied for sixth (1,105). |
|
2003/01/12
|
|
【PBA】 PBA Medford Open 【Final】
Watch Goebel's Win Again
Bryan Goebel Two months ago, Goebel was ready to announce his retirement. Today, just two tournaments into a comeback, Goebel won his 10th career title in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Medford Open at Lava Lanes. Goebel, Shawnee, Kan., defeated Danny Wiseman, Baltimore, in the final, 257-212, and earned the $40,000 top prize to go with his first championship since the 1998 Tournament of Champions. "I was driving home from Grand Rapids (Mich.) telling myself that I couldn't continue bowling like this," the 41-year-old said about cashing only once in the first six events of the season. "When I got home my wife (Kelly) talked me out of it. She said, 'If the money is your only concern, don't quit. We're okay.' I called PBA headquarters two days later and entered all the west coast tournaments." Goebel skipped the last four stops of the first half after he finished below 100th place in three of four consecutive tournaments. Last week, at the start of the second half, he finished 103rd at the Geico Earl Anthony Classic (Tacoma, Wash.). This week, after posting a field-best, 10-1 match play record, he found himself in the finals for the first time since 2000. In the semis, he disposed of four-time champion David Traber despite rolling only four strikes in the match (he converted six consecutive spares from the 5th frame). He needed seven pins on his fill-ball in the 10th and threw his first clutch strike of the day to advance against Wiseman. In the final, when Wiseman missed a 10-pin spare in the 6th frame, Goebel knew exactly what he needed. "I knew if I stepped up and threw the next shot (for a strike), all the pressure was on him. To stay in the match, he would've had to strike off-the-sheet to win. That wasn't easy to do today." Goebel threw strikes in the next six frames and ended all hopes for Wiseman, who finished with a spare and five consecutive strikes for $20,000. "There's no excuse for missed spares," Wiseman commented. "I just slipped on those two shots (he also missed the 2-6-9-10 in the 2nd). But, I don't want to take anything away from Bryan's performance. He bowled great. I've said it to him all week and I'll say it again - 'Aren't you glad you didn't retire.'" With the win, Goebel now meets the 10-title requirement for PBA Hall of Fame ballot eligibility when he retires. Wiseman beat Bob Learn Jr. in the semis, 228-212. Learn, Erie, Pa., finished tied for third with Traber. Both earned $10,000. In the opening match, Wiseman defeated wild card Hugh Miller, 203-181. Miller, Seattle, garnered $9,000 in fifth. |
|
2003/01/11
|
|
Medford Open ESPN Finals Set
Bryan Goebel Nine-time titlist Bryan Goebel will make his first championship round appearance in nearly three years. Goebel, who last won in the 1998 Tournament of Champions, eliminated Chris Sand, Chesterfield, Mich., three-games-to-none in the best-of-five match (237-213, 239-236, and 212-201). He advances to the live ESPN finals from 12:30-2 p.m. (ET) against David Traber, Woodstock, Ill., in the first semi-final match. "I have bowled really well this week and my confidence has grown with every ball I've thrown," Goebel said. "I've struggled with my confidence level for the last two years so it feels really good to have it back." Goebel, Shawnee, Kan., is competing in his eighth tournament of the season. After the Banquet Classic (Wyoming, Mich.) in mid-November, and having only cashed once in six tournaments, Goebel drove home thinking that he could possibly be done with his bowling career. "I left the first half of the season early, thinking that I was probably done bowling," the 41-year-old said. "I wasn't doing well. It was frustrating." After analyzing his career, realizing how close he was to cashing each week, and with the encouragement of his wife, Goebel decided he wasn't ready for retirement. During his extended holiday break, Goebel worked with fellow PBA member and back-to-back Senior Player of the Year Bob Glass, who helped him tweak his game and make adjustments. "I decided that I wasn't ready to quit so I went home and practiced everyday from mid-November until I left for the second half," Goebel said. "With Bob's help, I changed a few things that have helped my game and I am also more focused and able to concentrate better." Goebel will compete in the second match of the day. In the first match, Danny Wiseman, Baltimore, will face wildcard qualifier Hugh Miller, Seattle. Bob Learn Jr. awaits the winner of the wildcard match in the second semi-final match. |
|
2003/01/10
|
|
Holman Beats Deadeye
Marshall Holman Marshall Holman did something he didn't think he would be able to Friday night in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Medford Open at Lava Lanes. Holman, of Medford, defeated top-ranked Walter Ray Williams Jr., Ocala, Fla., four-games-to-three in the best-of-seven Round of 32 match (247-228, 264-251, 210-258, 213-256, 214-203, 244-203). "I really didn't think I could beat him," Holman, 48, said of his fellow hall-of-famer. "I thought it was possible but not probable. Especially when he got locked in after the second game, I thought I was done." But Williams, who had the ball reaction he was searching for in games No. 3 and 4, wasn't able to adjust as the lanes began to hook more in game No. 5. "The lanes just started to hook a pinch more and I wasn't able to make the right adjustment," Williams commented. "Coming into the match, I thought I had an advantage (as the full-time player). But it didn't work out." Holman, retired from full-time competition but bowling in the tournament because it is in his hometown, made match play last at the 1998 Tournament of Champions. He fed off the hometown crowd's energy the entire match which helped propel him to the decisive game. Williams, who led the game by 21 pins after five frames, threw the 4-6-7 split in the sixth. Holman answered with the next five strikes to lock-up the match. "You've gotta like my chances," he said. "I just beat the best player on tour. Now, I'm playing (Mike) Edwards who is another great full-time player. I think anyone can win that match." Defending champion Ricky Ward, who made his first match play cut of the season this week, beat Brian Kretzer in five games (249-182, 236-212, 185-205, 213-197, 244-202). He will take on David Traber, who knocked off Pete Weber. Other Round of 16 matches Saturday include; Joe Ciccone vs. Parker Bohn III, Bob Learn Jr. vs. Patrick Allen, Rohn Morton vs. Danny Wiseman, Hugh Miller vs. Tommy Delutz Jr., Chris Barnes vs. Christopher Sand, and Del Ballard Jr. vs. Bryan Goebel.
Holman Cracks Top 32
Marshall Holman Never has there been a more classic, hall-of-fame match-up on the "new" Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour. Top-ranked Walter Ray Williams Jr. will face the "Medford Meteor," Marshall Holman tonight in the PBA Medford Open. Holman, retired from full-time competition and a lifetime resident of Medford, earned his first match play appearance since 1998 after he qualified 20th with a 4,069, 18-game pinfall (226 average). Right after the round, while being interviewed by the local media, Holman was informed which player he drew for the opening round of match play. "I just got the worst draw I could get," the 48-year-old told everyone. "I get to play the best player on tour for the last 15 years." Holman and Williams have a rivalry dating back to 1980, the year Williams joined the PBA. At that point, Holman already owned 11 of his 22 career titles as a six-year veteran. Ironically, it wouldn't be until 1996 - the year Holman claimed his last title - when Williams would catch Holman in the titles category. Since then, Williams has become the second-most winning player of all-time with 35 career titles and five PBA Player of the Year awards. "We've bowled each other many times," Williams said. "There was really no advantage, one way or another. I might have a slight advantage tonight because he hasn't bowled in about a year. But, he definitely has the hometown advantage." Williams earned the 13th spot with 4,126 pins and a 229 average. Mike Scroggins, Amarillo, Texas, led the 18-game qualifier with 4,246 pins (235.89 average). He will face No. 32 Joe Ciccone, the 2000 PBA Rookie of the Year, from Buffalo, N.Y., (4,013). Other compelling matches include brothers-in-law Jeff Lizzi and Del Ballard Jr. and leading rookie of the year candidate Brad Angelo vs. Bob Learn Jr. Also, Brian Kretzer will take on defending champion Ricky Ward, who earned his first match play appearance of the season. Chris Barnes, Dallas, qualified sixth and extended his streak as the only player to make match play in every tournament this season (14). He will face five-time champion Jess Stayrook. |
|
2003/01/09
|
|
Kretzer Leads in Medford
Brian Kretzer "I led when we were playing on this pattern in the first tournament of the year in Wichita," the 36-year-old said about the PBA's "E" oil pattern, one of five unique conditions used throughout the season. "For some reason, this pattern just works for me and matches up well with the balls that I use." The Ohio native is now one of only three players to cash in every tournament bowled this season (11/11). The only other two players that have cashed in each tournament are Walter Ray Williams Jr. and Chris Barnes (14/14). Kretzer started the day with a 247, fell back in the second with a 190 and then bounced back with two strong games (274 and 280). He followed with a 244, 226, 228, 245 and 249. "I bowled with two guys on my pair that I felt comfortable with and got relaxed," he said. "It actually got easier as the games went on tonight." "When I have led the tournament before or finished at the top, I have continued to do well in the next round," he said. A second-year PBA touring professional, Kretzer has three, Round of 16 finishes this season and has made it to match play in seven tournaments. He has one career TV appearance last year in North Brunswick, N.J., where he finished in fifth place. Mike Scroggins, Amarillo, Texas, finished in second place after averaging 241.67 (2,183) while Bryan Goebel knocked down 2,169 pins and averaged 241 to finish in third place. Bob Learn Jr., Erie, Pa., is in fourth place with a 240.67 average and Jeff Lizzi, Sandusky, Ohio, rounds out the top five after averaging 239.67 (2,157). Roberto Silva, Mexico, rolled the first perfect game of his PBA career and finished in 39th place. Defending player of the year Parker Bohn III rolled the only other 300 game of the tournament during the morning rounds. He finished in 35th place. |
|
2003/01/05
|
|
One Gets History, One Gets Trophy
Norm Duke & Mike DeVaney Norm Duke added his name to the record books with the 15th televised 300 game in history Sunday in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Geico Earl Anthony Classic at Emerald Queen Casino - but his feat quickly turned bittersweet. Duke, Clermont, Fla., defeated PBA Hall of Famer Walter Ray Williams Jr. in the semifinals, 300-213, for the first televised perfect game in more than three years. "That's been a goal of mine for 21 years," said the 38-year-old. "I've believed it for so long. Most times, we're just happy when we can get a double (two consecutive strikes). It just kept going today and I dragged it out. I had a shot at it. I finally did it. It's unbelievable." But in the end, it was Mike DeVaney's time to break through. DeVaney, Escondido, Calif., defeated the 20-time champion in the final, 279-248, for his first career title and $40,000 - just one game after Duke's semifinal heroics. "I was standing on the sidelines rooting for him," DeVaney said of Duke. "It turned out to be a little bit of a blessing. He didn't seem to calm down until the third frame (of the championship)." DeVaney, who averaged more than 268 over his last five games of the tournament, jumped ahead early with the first eight strikes and threatened to roll a 300 of his own. Duke threw six of the first eight strikes, but couldn't keep up with DeVaney. He pocketed $20,000 in second. "You have to stick it to guys like Duke early," commented DeVaney. "They're going to come out and do the same to you." After leaving a 4-pin in the ninth frame, DeVaney just needed five pins on his first ball in the 10th for the win. He got three strikes. In the semifinals, DeVaney knocked off five-time champion Bob Learn Jr., 258-211. Learn, Erie, Pa., finished tied with Williams for third. Each garnered $10,000. In the opening match, wildcard-qualifier Williams beat first-time finalist Mike Wolfe, 236-167. Wolfe finished fifth with $9,000. |
|
2003/01/04
|
|
The Road Still Goes Through WRW
Mike DeVaney Mike DeVaney secured a spot in the championship round of the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Geico Earl Anthony Classic Saturday night when he beat Walter Ray Williams Jr. to advance to the live ESPN finals at Emerald Queen Casino Sunday from 9:30-11 a.m. (PT). DeVaney, Escondido, Calif., averaged 269 (807 total) in the best-of-five match and beat Williams in three games. However, Williams will make his sixth finals appearance of the season in the finals as the wildcard qualifier. Williams, Ocala, Fla., will compete in the first match of the day against Mike Wolfe, New Albany, Ind., who will be making his first finals appearance. "It's not the way I wanted to make it to the finals," the 35-time titlist said. "I have an extra match now to make it and it's just a little more work to win the title." Even after beating Williams in the Round of 8, DeVaney knows that Williams is still an obstacle in reaching the final match and winning his first title. "The road to the title is most likely going to be through Walter Ray," the 30-year-old said. "He is the best bowler in the world right now and he's having a great season." DeVaney will face Bob Learn Jr. in the first semi-final match. In three career television appearances, DeVaney is seeking his first win. Beating the best bowler in the world may be enough confidence to get that first win. "Beating Walter Ray and beating him in three games just puts into concrete that I am one of the best bowlers in the world," DeVaney said. "Now I've got to win on TV." |
|
2003/01/03
|
|
Nobody Does It Better
Robert Smith Robert Smith continued to prove Friday night at Pacific Lanes that he is one of the most clutch performers on the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour. Smith, Simi Valley, Calif., defeated Patrick Allen, Tarrytown, N.Y., four-games-to-three in the Round of 32 at the PBA Geico Earl Anthony Classic (223-242, 200-201, 248-182, 232-228, 248-247, 147-237, 278-254). "Nobody throws it better for 'the wheat' than me," he said. "You have to believe it. I always give myself a chance and every time I need a shot, I throw it." To earn his chance, Smith needed to fight back from a bad ball reaction in the sixth game. He scored only a 147. "I know a 140 looks ugly on paper," he said. "It probably could have been a 170... maybe at best. I had nothing. I was just trying to make sure I was lined up for the seventh game. I wasted every possible shot for about seven frames." The strategy worked as Smith, a four-time champion, found the right combination for game No. 7. "With my normal plan of attack, I'll start with the Storm Shock Trauma ball then move to the Blaze followed by the Boost as the lanes dictate change. Tonight, in the sixth game, the Blaze wasn't working. So, I went right to the Boost for the finish." Smith advances to face Michael Gaither in Saturday's Round of 16. Gaither, who finished second this season at Blue Springs, Mo., knocked off rookie sensation Brad Angelo (4-1). In other matches, Walter Ray Williams Jr. continued his hot play with a 4-1 defeat of top-ranked Chris Barnes. Williams, who trails Anthony's six, PBA Player of the Year Awards by one, will take on Jess Stayrook. Williams recently won a PBA.com fan poll as the choice for best first-half performer. Other match ups Saturday include: Bob Learn Jr. vs. Brian Kretzer; Steve Jaros vs. Michael Machuga; Mike DeVaney vs. Tommy Delutz Jr.; Norm Duke vs. Jimmy Johnson; Mike Wolfe vs. Tommy Jones; and Rudy Kasimakis vs. Vince Wood.
Healey Figuring It Out
Patrick Healey Jr. It may not exactly be a New Year's resolution, but Patrick Healey Jr. knows just what he needs for continued success during the second half of the 2002-03 Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour. Healey, Mexico, earned the No. 1 qualifying spot Friday in the Geico Earl Anthony Classic at Pacific Lanes for his ninth match play berth in 12 tournaments. The 34-year-old registered a tournament-leading 4,116, 18-game pinfall total and a 228.67 average. "I didn't force anything," Healey said. "Sometimes, we feel pressured to force things to happen out here (on tour). That can backfire which can make your game go south." The right-hander has only been headed "north" since winning his first title earlier this season (Blue Springs, Mo.). "I did some hard work on my mental game after (the season opener) in Japan. Too often, I would try to control too much. Sometime, we live life and think we have to have control of everything in our hands. I just had to let go of that mentality. It's let my body perform naturally, like it knows how to." The new outlook has opened doors for Healey. "It's helped open up ball reactions, showed me different ways to play certain lane conditions. Plus, being a free agent (not signed to a ball company staff) gives me a different perspective of lanes conditions using many balls." Healey will face the No. 32 qualifier, Bob Learn Jr., in tonight's Round of 32. Chris Barnes finished in fifth place (4,067) and continues as the only bowler to make match play in every tournament this season. He will face PBA Hall of Famer Walter Ray Williams Jr., who qualified 28th. Other marquee match ups include No. 2 Patrick Allen vs. No. 31 Robert Smith and No. 4 Brian Voss vs. No. 29 Tommy Delutz Jr. |
|
2003/01/02
|
|
Back on Track
Jimmy Johnson After a little help from his hall of fame father, Jimmy Johnson knocked down 2,109 pins and averaged 234.33 to lead the first round of qualifying Thursday in the PBA Geico Earl Anthony Classic at Pacific Lanes. During the holiday break, Johnson, Columbus, Ohio, spent time analyzing his game with his father, PBA Hall of Famer, Don Johnson. Right away, they noticed a significant flaw. "We (video) taped my game and immediately saw that my right elbow has been tweaking out," Johnson said. "My dad is such a great coach that he saw the flaw and made the adjustment in an hour." The change puts Johnson in a good position to make it to match play for the first time this season (nine events bowled). "I've been really disappointed this season," Johnson said. "It was really good to go home during the break, spend time with my kids and family, and practice. Working with my dad and keying in on keeping my elbow in makes all the difference in my game." Johnson and his father are one of only three father-son duos that have PBA Tour titles. Jimmy won his lone title in 1990 at Chicago, while his father holds 26 titles and was twice voted PBA Player of the Year. The younger Johnson looks forward to being a more competitive force on Tour and having more success in the next nine tournaments. "When I am bowling well, I can compete with all the guys," Johnson said. "There are 50-70 guys out here that can win at any time and I know I am one of those guys when I am on top of my game." The top three finishers were within three pins of each other. Rudy Kasimakis, Gouldsboro, Pa., missed first by only one pin, finishing with a 234.22 average (2,108). In third place, Patrick Healey Jr., Mexico City, finished with a 234.11 average (2,107). Brian Voss, Atlanta, finished in fourth place with a 232.56 average (2,093). David Ozio, Beaumont, Texas, was the leader after the morning squad and rounds out the top five after averaging 230.44 (2,080). |
| トップページ |
