One of the largest events that comes to this area every year might be one that you don’t even know about, unless you are past the age of 55.

The Albemarle Senior Games, encompassing Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Gates, Hyde, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Tyrrell and Washington counties, is one of the largest participatory events this region sees each year, consisting of more than 50 events from March 1st through May 21st.  

The games boast sporting events from badminton to track and field, tennis to golf, and even the local favorite, cornhole.

Outside of sporting events, there are also events for basket weaving, jewelry, woodworking, and many others in the literary arts.

When it is all said and done though, one event is always packed, and that is the bowling event.  

On Mar. 25, seniors from the Albemarle region will gather at Albemarle Lanes for the two-day portion, with singles the first day and doubles the next.

The singles event is broken down into eight age categories, ranging from 55-59 all the way to 90 and above, while the mixed doubles event is open to mixed age groups.

As a prior employee of Albemarle Lanes, I can remember working years ago during the games. It was absolutely amazing to see the number of people from all over coming out to enjoy the game.

The one thing I did notice, however, was that even though the bowlers were having fun, the competitive spirit was clearly present. It was no secret that everyone there came for one thing, and that was the gold medal.

In its 29th year, the Albemarle Senior Games also has an additional benefit. Participants who qualify by placing appropriately will also gain entry into the North Carolina Senior Games to represent their region on the state level. I strongly suggest, even if you are not competing, come out and cheer on these bowlers, as I can guarantee you will have a blast.

MONDAY NIGHT MIXED

Mark Tarkington returned to form this week, firing a 229/623 to lead all scores, followed by a 235/621 from Adam Meads. Joey Winslow added a 620 on the night as well, along with a 226 from Pete Fraioli.  

The ladies were led by Stephanie Winslow and her nice 184 game, followed by 180 games from Charlene Phillips and Tara Clark.

FELLOWSHIP MEMORIAL LEAGUE

After a one week absence, Joey Winslow returned to the top of the leaderboard with his impressive 275/696, followed by a 245/646 from Adam Meads and a 242/634 from Rick Brakefield.

Kaytee Davis led the ladies with a huge 257 game, followed by a 197 from Kandis Riddick and a 172 from Bobbi Jo Tarkington.

ALBEMARLE ROLLERS

Leonora Vactor continued her dominant season, finding herself in the top three yet again, rolling a 185 to lead all, followed by a 172 from Becky Hilderbrand and a 170 from Sharon Hoffler.

ALL AMERICAN LADIES LEAGUE

Ocie Manos topped the board this week, rolling a 180 game as Ada Campbell (178) and Sharon Yonek (173) followed.

MARTIN LUTHER KING LEAGUE

Joey Winslow capped off a big week, leading the league with his 258/736, followed by a 233/641 from Adam Meads and a 235/629 from returning bowler John Bradley.  

For the ladies, Margaret Butts led the action with her 183, followed by a 160 from Margie Clark and a 155 from Emma Spence.

FRIDAY NIGHT MIXED

After throwing the same ball for years and years, Wayne Newsome, a 164 average bowler, finally decided to see Mark in the pro shop for a new ball.

When it was all said and done, Wayne had a new “IQ” bowling ball drilled up and ready to go, just in time for league action Friday night. By the end of the night, Newsome had the high series for the night and for his season, a 604 to go with his 233 game.

Reginald Griffin and Brian Bogue added games of 248 and 214 respectively as well on the night.

For the ladies, Vonner Horton led with a 180 game, followed by a 140 from Patsy Sanders.