710 series wins BVL trophy

Ken Thomas might have been the top bowler, but the BVL was the real winner in the tournament that finished its 2011 run last week.

Thomas rolled a 710 series in the Men's Classic Division to win the Bowlers to Veterans Link Tournament. Other division winners included Rudy Marquez (617 in Men's A), Wayne Karle (535 in Men's B), DonDra Drumond (660 in Women's Classic), Kim Eichorst (555 in Women's A), and Jackie Wilson (494 Women's B). Each will represent Modesto in the State Finals in Citrus Heights in March.

Proceeds from the tourney support bowling's own charity, the BVL Fund. It provides services to veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and to older veterans in state homes around the country. Modesto's USBC has been vigorous in support of the BVL.

Sandy Delaney and Richard Tavares teamed to win the Modesto USBC Senior Doubles Tournament with a 1,753 total. Ray Reim and Bob Britt were second (1,720) with Pinky Martin and Ken Thomas third (1,676).

Vern Shafer was way out in front on the men's side of the 55 and Over No-Tap at Yosemite with his 944 set, including a no-tap 300. Ron Johnson's 853 series earned him second, followed by Eric Benz at 834. Lina Carlson topped the ladies at 905. Kathy Ereso was second (856).

The McHenry Senior No-Tap sweeper starts at 1 p.m. Friday; check-in and potluck are at 12:30 p.m. The Ladies No-Tap Trio tourney is Monday at McHenry, starting at 9:30 a.m.

The nomination period for the Modesto Hall of Fame is open. The Hall honors those bowlers who have contributed to the growth and welfare of the game. Honorees are recognized for Meritorious Service or Superior Ability. A living candidate must have been a sanctioned bowler in the Modesto USBC or previous associations for at least 20 years.

Last year, Carol Heed Serpa was inducted in Superior Performance category and Gloria Chin was honored in the Meritorious Service category.

The Pioneer Award honors those who have shown a life-long commitment to bowling through either longtime league participation, holding league office, or being a team captain or a sponsor for at least 30 years. Nomination forms are available at the bowl desks and must be returned by Feb. 1.

Entries are out for the 47th annual Livermore Valley Tournament at Granada Bowl in Livermore. The tournament runs on weekends from Dec. 10 through Feb. 5. Competition is in Team, Doubles, Singles and All-Events. Entries are available at bowl desks or can be accessed at www.granadabowl.com.

Kadry is an employee of McHenry Bowl; reach her at mchbowl@aol.com or (209) 571-2695.