MUSKEGON, Mich. – Brunswick Bowling Products and Frank Zhao of Longmarch Bowling, a Brunswick distributor in the People’s Republic of China, recently hosted a visit to the U.S. by a delegation from the Chinese Bowling Association (CBA).

“The CBA delegation is excited to experience American bowling, learn how the world’s leading bowling organizations operate, and discover ways to grow the sport of bowling in China,” said Zhao. “This trip will have a strong impact on the future development of bowling in China.”

CBA members were in Reno, Nev., the week of Dec. 6 to compete in the PBA World Series of Bowling with balls and shirts provided by Brunswick. After the tournament, they traveled to Arlington, Texas, as guests of Brunswick Bowling Products executives Dan Borgie, vice president of international sales, and Gary Smith, vice president of North American modernization sales. While in Arlington, the group toured the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame, met with directors from the Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America (BPAA) and United States Bowling Congress (USBC), and toured Dallas-area bowling centers. They returned to Reno on Dec. 16 and were joined by Brent Perrier, Brunswick Bowling Products CEO, for the PBA World Series of Bowling finals and a private tour of the Reno Bowling Stadium.

Brunswick's hosting of the CBA delegation's visit was part of the company's long-term commitment to support and grow the bowling industry in China. Earlier this year, Brunswick Bowling Products, the CBA, and World Bowling established the Chinese Bowling Foundation (CBF) to promote the growth of the sport of bowling in China. Brunswick also has hosted educational courses and sponsored PBA bowlers to hold matches and exhibitions in China, and is helping the CBF initiate a comprehensive bowling league and ranking structure in China.

Aside from the seven bowlers, the CBA delegation included Mr. Shi, vice chairman of the Chinese Bowling Association; Mr. Wang, executive manager of bowling, China Sports Bureau; and Mr. Jia, a coach of the Chinese Bowling Association.