Missouri group takes Classified Team lead at 2019 USBC Open Championships

By Regina Daniel and David McCord
USBC Communications

LAS VEGAS
- The members of Roy Allen Team 2 of Blue Springs, Missouri, began their time at the 2019 United States Bowling Congress Open Championships on Thursday by cheering on one of their own for being recognized for reaching a participation milestone.

The teammates ended their day at the South Point Bowling Plaza by cheering on each other as they cruised to the top of the Classified Team standings by nearly 130 pins.

Roy Allen Team 2 posted games of 802, 882 and 896 for a 2,580 team score Thursday, easily surpassing the 2,451 total rolled by Like a Boss of Dover, Florida.

The score also stands as the highest Classified Team total since the USBC Open Championships transitioned to three divisions at the 2017 event, which also was held at the 60-lane facility.

Arthur Word led the effort with a 592 series, and he was joined by Clinton Creech (569), Rocky Roberts (533), Jim Nixon (452) and David Kimmerle (434).

Thursday's excitement started for Roy Allen Team 2 in the tournament's squad room, where Nixon was awarded a chevron and portfolio for reaching his 20th year of Open Championships participation.

Bowlers first are awarded chevrons after 20 years of tournament participation. A new chevron is presented for every additional appearance, and competitors also are awarded a plaque upon reaching 25 years. Plaques are presented for every fifth appearance following a bowler's 25th year of participation (30 years, 35 years).

The team also was motivated after being able to watch some strong performances at the 2018 event in Syracuse, New York.

"Last year, we bowled right next to the tournament leaders, and we were inspired," said Word, who made his fifth Open Championships appearance. "This year, at last, the cheers were for us."

The team will return to the lanes Friday at 5:30 p.m. Eastern to see if they are able to carry their momentum into doubles and singles competition.

Classified Team is for bowlers with combined entering averages of 775 and below.

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