The 185 entries at HiLine not only smashed the one-week old, 3-squad record of 157, it even topped the 4-squad high of 178 set last summer at Secoma.  Our largest ever 1st squad, was followed by the biggest ever squad of 74, leading to the STAGGERING new One-Day Record, and a huge Cash List of 37Members!  In 2010, we didn't have our second Tournament with a $10,000 payout until August. This week at HiLine, we already had our 2nd in-a-row ($10,223.00), with another likely looming for next week at Hooters.  Thanks to the HiLine staff, we came amazingly close to staying on schedule.  A sheared bolt on lane 18 got us behind early in the 1st squad, so considering the numbers Saturday, we actually made it close by the end of the day.  $300 was paid-out from the 9-Tap Jackpot Consolation, to Stu Gallagher & Rollie Abella ($150 ea). Thanks to the large turnout, the Pot still made a big jump to new heights.  Again, we had many with 'strings of taps' coming close... Randy Roberts finished with 6 in-a-row but ran out of game before shooting for #7... Patrick Robbins had 6 Taps before throwing a real one... many strung 5, but no one made the "Golden Shot" yet.  The most amazing number is the Progressive Pot, that combined with HiLine's Winner only in the Pot for $10, helped to push the Pot to nearly $2,000.00 ABOVE normal size.  WOW... just wait till next week!!!

Lawrence Mariano becomes our newest 1st time Champion.  We've often talked about getting into the "Zone" and Lawrence certainly found that mysterious spot on Saturday.  He joined the Tour at Skyway, where he's bowled in the FABC (Filipino League) the last three years.  The highest average he's carried in that league has been a 164, which gave no hint of how 'Hot' he got this week.  Even with his HUGE score of 862, it was barely enough to come away with a 4 pin margin of victory.  In an interesting coincidence, the 'Columbia 300' ball he used for his win, was drilled years ago at Schofield Barracks Bowl while he was stationed there.  While Lawrence was finishing up his entry Saturday, our Hawaii Region was starting their Tournament at... Schofield Barracks.  Lawrence obviously didn't expect to get HOT, only putting $10 in the Progressive Pot, which limited his payday to $1,771.00, that he plans to use for paying bills.  He said that he really felt lucky.... like he couldn't miss, but started getting nervous and excited the longer his 'Hot Streak' continued.  He's worked at Swedish Medical Center for 17 years, and also enjoys going fishing when he can.  CONGRATS Lawrence on win #1!