Kadry on Bowling: Rick Francis caps comeback with 300 in 6-gamer championship

When Rick Francis returned to bowling after an accident about a year ago, he did it in a big way.

If you recall, Francis stopped to help a stranded motorist on his way home from bowling one night around Christmas and was struck by a car. His right leg was crushed, and he has been through numerous surgeries and a grueling rehabilitation.

At the end of the summer, he threw a few balls from his wheelchair, then on crutches, but officially came back when he subbed on a team three weeks ago and posted a 772 set.

But he really found his stride again at the November 6-gamer at Yosemite Lanes. Francis was the high qualifier, averaging 245, for the six with a 1,470 total. He waited while the next four contenders worked their way through the stepladder. Rich Custer came from the fifth spot, winning the three matches, to face Francis in the final round.

Francis not only won the match but rolled a 300 game to Custer’s 248. Francis earned a berth in the Tournament of Champions and $284.

But more importantly, he is back to bowling. His dad, deceased Hall of Famer Charlie Francis, would have been proud. ...

After eating way too much turkey on Thanksgiving day, get your family together to work off a few calories. Both bowling centers will be open all day and evening for your pleasure. Yosemite will offer holiday rates, and McHenry Bowl will run a Thanksgiving special that includes two games with shoes for $5 per person. ...

The team of Lana Trantham, Janet Spooner and Loren Spooner topped the field in the Mixed Kegler Trio Tournament at McHenry with a 2,470 score. Manny Simas, David Brown and Bill Briscoe finished second with a 2,369. Taking third with a 2,264 was the team of Kelly Napuunoa, Joyce Lewis and Eddie Lewis. ...

There were turkeys all over the place during the annual Turkey Shoot No-Tap Tournament at McHenry. More than 30 birds were given away to lucky scorers. David Brown was the top scorer for the men with an 849 set. Bill Briscoe was second at 837, followed by Gene Stamps with an 827. Joyce Lewis and Deana Swickard tied for the women’s lead with an 817. Bernice Smith was next with an 809 set, followed by Janie Schropp’s 805. Rick Lazaro rolled the only no-tap 300 game during the event. ...

The Yosemite 50 and Older No-Tap Tournament is Nov. 27 at 1 p.m. This is a singles event with separate prize lists for men and women. Check-in begins at 12:30. ...

Pro Shops at both bowling centers are stocked and ready for your Christmas giving. For those bowlers on your list, a variety of balls, bags, shoes, and shirts are available. Accessories and novelty items are also on hand and make great stocking stuffers or smaller gifts. Gift cards and game passes can also be purchased at each center. ...

Even though the new year is still six weeks away, it’s time to sign up for the perennial sellout New Year in Paris No-Tap Tournament at McHenry the afternoon of Dec. 31. Call Terry Waring or Theresa Medeiros at 209-571-2695 for reservations or information.

Help the Strike Out Hunger program at McHenry by bringing five cans of nonperishable food to bowl one free game, including shoe rental. The special runs through Christmas and is good anytime during the day or evening.

This story was originally published November 24, 2015 at 4:00 PM with the headline "Kadry on Bowling: Rick Francis caps comeback with 300 in 6-gamer championship."