Oklahoma bowler celebrates birthday by taking lead at 2019 USBC Women's Championships

By Ryne Navarro
USBC Communications

WICHITA, Kan.
- Apryl Sneed of Sand Springs, Oklahoma, celebrated her birthday weekend at the 2019 United States Bowling Congress Women's Championships by rolling 259 in her final game to take the Ruby All-Events lead.

The now 38-year-old right-hander started her singles set at Northrock Lanes with games of 211 and 192 before delivering eight strikes in the finale Sunday for a 662 series, to go along with scores of 624 in team and 550 in doubles for a 1,836 total.

Renzie Kintzler of Cheyenne, Wyoming, previously held the all-events lead with 1,824, and she leads Ruby Singles with 725. Sneed's singles set also helped her into third place in Ruby Singles.

When the first-time USBC Women's Championships participant found out she took over the lead, she was overcome with emotion. Her birthday was Saturday, and her performance Sunday served as a great gift to herself.

"This is my first time," Sneed said. "I can't believe it, and I'm so excited. I'm definitely going to be coming back next year. Taking the lead in a national tournament is a great birthday present. I'll never forget this one."

Sneed made a key adjustment prior to her singles event that helped her with carry at Northrock Lanes, especially in her final game.

"I didn't have the best look in doubles," Sneed said. "I've bowled here before and was told to try and play more in the track area, which gave me a really good look during singles."

Sneed embraced the storied history of the event, having a hard time putting into words what it would mean to win a title at the Women's Championships.

"I'm shocked," Sneed said. "I'm humbled, and I'm really happy."

Ruby Singles and All-Events consist of bowlers with entering averages of 175-189.

Visit us on Facebook at the official USBC Women's Championships page.