Arizona bowler makes 50th consecutive appearance at Open Championships
June 09, 2026
RENO, Nev. – Rickie Nader of Surprise, Arizona, recently reached an impressive milestone in the sport of bowling, making his 50th consecutive appearance at the United States Bowling Congress Open Championships.
The achievement reflects his dedication, consistency and passion for the sport. To commemorate the occasion, Nader took place in a ceremonial march down the center aisle at the National Bowling Stadium, receiving cheers from fellow competitors and spectators in recognition of his accomplishment.
He was presented with a plaque, chevron and diamond lapel pin as a welcome to the tournament’s 50-Year Club.
Nader’s journey at the Open Championships began in 1976 in Oklahoma City. Since then, he has traveled across the country each year to compete, building a legacy defined by longevity, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to bowling.
Among the many host cities he has visited over the years, Niagara Falls, New York, remains one of his favorite spots.
“We used to take two weeks off for vacation when we came to the tournament to go and see the sights,” Nader said.
Over the course of his career at the Open Championships, Nader has knocked down 79,350 pins while maintaining a 176.3 average, a testament to both his endurance and consistency on the lanes.
When asked what has motivated him to compete in the tournament for 50 consecutive appearances, Nader kept his answer simple.
“I just enjoy bowling,” he said.
The Open Championships is celebrating its 122nd edition in 2026 and making its 15th trip to Reno, Nevada. The 2026 event is scheduled to feature more than 55,000 bowlers and 11,000 five-player teams competing across 128 consecutive days at the National Bowling Stadium.
Follow the action from the tournament’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts.
The achievement reflects his dedication, consistency and passion for the sport. To commemorate the occasion, Nader took place in a ceremonial march down the center aisle at the National Bowling Stadium, receiving cheers from fellow competitors and spectators in recognition of his accomplishment.
He was presented with a plaque, chevron and diamond lapel pin as a welcome to the tournament’s 50-Year Club.
Nader’s journey at the Open Championships began in 1976 in Oklahoma City. Since then, he has traveled across the country each year to compete, building a legacy defined by longevity, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to bowling.
Among the many host cities he has visited over the years, Niagara Falls, New York, remains one of his favorite spots.
“We used to take two weeks off for vacation when we came to the tournament to go and see the sights,” Nader said.
Over the course of his career at the Open Championships, Nader has knocked down 79,350 pins while maintaining a 176.3 average, a testament to both his endurance and consistency on the lanes.
When asked what has motivated him to compete in the tournament for 50 consecutive appearances, Nader kept his answer simple.
“I just enjoy bowling,” he said.
The Open Championships is celebrating its 122nd edition in 2026 and making its 15th trip to Reno, Nevada. The 2026 event is scheduled to feature more than 55,000 bowlers and 11,000 five-player teams competing across 128 consecutive days at the National Bowling Stadium.
Follow the action from the tournament’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts.