Published: September 07, 2007 10:24 pm            

COLUMN: Griffey uses bowling to raise money for cancer research

Youth bowling signups are today at Lowry Lanes

I know not everyone in this town can be a Chicago Cubs fan. I am a Cincinnati Reds fan and I can’t be alone even if the Reds have seen the cellar a few times this year.

The Reds have a very familiar name on their roster to every long-time baseball fan. That name is Griffey. First it was No. 30, Ken Griffey Sr., roaming the outfield, now we have No. 3, Ken Griffey Jr., in the outfield and rounding those bases after he hammers that ball into the bleachers. Some people I know call him an old man already, but as long as he keeps the ball between the foul lines, who cares?

Some Professional Bowlers Association stars recently took part in Junior’s inaugural “Stars and Strikes for Kids” bowling tournament at AMF Kingpin Lanes in Anderson Township, Ohio. Tommy Delutz Jr., Brian Himmler, Brian Kretzer, Bob Learn Jr. and Ronnie Russell all represented the PBA in the event.

The proceeds from the tournament and the accompanying auction will benefit cancer research at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.

In addition to Griffey, 21 other Reds players and coaches were in attendance including Adam Dunn, David Weathers and Brandon Phillips. Griffey is a bowling enthusiast who boasts a high score of 263, which is one reason he chose the sport as an avenue to raise money.

Griffey often keeps his charitable endeavors private, but after watching both of his parents deal with cancer the past year, it inspired him to do a more public event.

“You start to realize what’s important,” he said. “Giving kids a fighting chance and to get the research to have them live a productive life, I think it’s the most important thing an athlete can do to help somebody.”

Prior to the tournament, a PBA Kids Clinic was held with children from the Boys and Girls Club participating.

Youth league sign-up

Don’t forget the Don Lowry Lanes youth league sign-up will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. today. This is for all age groups and the adult/youth league. Those with questions should see Lynda Lucas at the center.

Mixed city tourney

Lynn Harbaugh and Gary Trent are looking forward to receiving entries for the 15th City of Firsts USBC Annual Mixed City Championship Tournament. Tournament dates are Oct. 7 and Oct. 14. Entry deadline is midnight on Friday, Sept. 21. The entry fee is $20 per event, per person.

They are also accepting entries into the 16th annual Seniors Tournament. Deadline for that tournament is Oct. 26. Entry forms are at all centers now. Those who can’t find an entry form should call Gary at (765) 271-6937 or Lynn at (765) 864-0934

Don’t forget the average book is online to get your average for tournament!

Pin notes

Sean Paul had a 279 game. Ted Meadows had a 175 and a 482 series on a 126 average. Doug Workman had a 300 game and an 801 series on a 195 average. Zach McKillip had a 497 series and a 204 game with a 108 average. Kevin LeClerc had a 276 game with a 189 average.

Cyndy Trent is the Tribune’s bowling columnist. She may be reached by e-mail at trentcyndy@aol.com or through the sports department.

        

• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.