Behr’s tourney victory is on 31st birthday

She wins 700 Club Tournament at Poelking Marian.

Blowing out the candles and making a wish, Andrea Behr couldn’t have asked for a better birthday present.

Behr won the 700 Club Tournament at Poelking Marian Lanes Sunday on her 31st birthday.

“This is the best way I could have spent my birthday,” she said. “Bowling with my friends and having a good time.”

And, of course, winning a tournament title.

“It definitely made for a memorable birthday,” Behr said.

It was the third time the Dayton bowler had competed in the 700 Club tournament — open to female bowlers who have recorded a 700 series.

“I have bowled in it before, but I haven’t done very well,” Behr said.

What was the difference this time around?

“I tried not to press too hard,” Behr said. “I knew it was close and, luckily, I was able to finish strong.”

Behr closed out the four-game series with a 279 game, finishing with a 1,010, with handicap, just 18 pins ahead of second-place finisher Julie Bradley. Robin Johnson rounded out the top three with 972.

A birthday isn’t complete without cake, and mom Sue Hartley had it covered, bringing the frosted confection to Marian Lanes for a posttourney celebration – made even sweeter when the birthday girl was also crowned champion.

“This is the best birthday I can remember,” Behr said.

■ Scholarship deadline: Graduating high school seniors have until April 1 to submit their application for the Greater Dayton United States Bowling Congress Kurt Gostel Scholarship. The award, given annually in the name of the longtime Dayton area bowling coach, is based on scholastic achievement and community service as well as bowling success. For more information or an application, visit www.dayton bowler.com.

■ Luck of the Irish: Poelking Lanes South will host the Poelking’s Pot of Gold 9 Pin No Tap tournament on March 16. One out of six bowlers will cash in this four-game 9-pin no-tap scratch tournament. For information, visit www. poelkingbowling.com.