Staff writer
Kenny Rindt of rural Marion placed third in his age division at the 2011 U.S. Bowling Congress Senior Championships for ages 55 and above on July 6 and 7 at Syracuse, N.Y.
“I think it was about 26 pins per game over my average,” he said.
On the first day of the championships, Rindt improved his scores each game, from 164 to 189 to 204, for a total scratch score of 557. On the second day, he improved throughout the day again, although not as dramatically. His scores were 182, 187, and 189, for a total scratch score of 677. His total scratch score for the championship was 1,115.
With a handicap of 120 per three-game series, Rindt’s final score was 1,355. That earned him third place behind Gary Keener of Indianapolis, Ind., 1,415 points, and Scott Longtin of New Brighton, Minn., 1,406. Rindt placed fifth in 2010.
There were 37 entries in his division, and each qualified for the national event by winning their state event.
Rindt also won the July 5 “sweeper” event, which was open to all age divisions. About 200 people entered the event.
Rindt bowled games of 246, 232, and 179 for a total scratch score of 657 plus his 120-pin handicap, for an overall score of 777.
He said taking his 15 lb., 10 ounce bowling ball with him caused some delays along the trip. At every stop along his trip, security made him take the ball out of its case.
He bowls regularly in a Monday league at SherBowl Lanes in Marion. He also occasionally bowls on weekends with his wife, Bonnie.
“I’ve been bowling since I was in grade school,” Rindt said. “My brother (Willie) used to run the bowling alley here.”
There is a lot to like about bowling, he said. He enjoys the competitive, exercise, social, and entertainment aspects of the sport.
The main piece of advice he would give bowlers wanting to be competitive is to practice.
Rindt’s bowling league teammate Jim Wyatt contributed to this story.