Local competitors can cash in this week

NBT’S Body Quest Challenge begins Thursday evening in Paradise

The Newfoundland Bowling Tour (NBT) kicks off the 201819 bowling season with the Body Quest Challenge, beginning later this week at Paradise Bowl.

With record prize payouts expected to exceed $14,000, the NBT will add to its reputation as the most lucrative cash tournament in Newfoundland bowling history.

“We now have a successful formula for running these events” says NBT vice president Shane Chafe. “If you want to see the best bowlers in the province compete (in) exciting formats (for) large cash payouts, then you come watch an NBT event. It really has become the pinnacle for completive bowling in the province.

“The numbers don’t lie.” The event starts Thursday evening with the High Roller Doubles Shootout, sponsored by Corrina Sears TPI Travel Design , with many of the province’s bowlers partnering for a 10-team match-play event. Saturday evening will see the 3-6-9 Bakers team event sponsored by Thompson Financial, with teams of three competing in a non-traditional scoring format . The main event will feature over 90 bowlers competing for the title of 2018 Body Quest Challenge champion.

The field for the latter includes Phil Foley, Meagan Gallicano, Brad Glynn, Mike Upshall, Courtney Lucas, Brandon Tibbs, Dave Hann Jr., and Chafe, as well as young up-and-comers such as Katie Wells, Noah Kelly, and Coleton Vriesendorp.

The event runs a triple-shift qualifier on Friday and Saturday, with the top 24 advancing to a double-bracket style playoff format on Sunday.

“The support from the bowling community has been phenomenal,” said Chafe. “Some of these events filled up (resulting in) waiting lists within hours of announcing them.”

The original goal of the NBT was to provide more competitive bowling opportunities to better prepare for national events and Chafe suggests Newfoundland and Labrador’s success at the national level in recent years is proof that it is working.

For those who can’t make it to Paradise Bowl to watch the action in person, the Newfoundland Bowling Tour’s Facebook page will be providing updates, scores, pictures, and live streaming throughout the event.