Tristen Bagwell won his division in the Texas State USBC 2022 Youth Tournament High Game and High Series. Bagwell, a high school freshman, has been bowling for two years. This past event was Bagwell’s second time competing at the Texas State USBC Tournament.
Bagwell credits his interest in bowling to his grandfather, Benny Horton.
“My grandpa has been bowling for 70 years,” Bagwell said. “We would come up here to The Zone every so often and bowl.”
The Zone Bowling Center is owned by Cody Stanford. Having been rebranded in 2017, Stanford took over ownership of The Zone in 2020. Stanford has been bowling for 20 years, coaching youth for 10 years, and is a bronze certified United States Bowling Congress (USBC) coach.
Stanford’s goals are to become a silver certified coach and grow the bowling community in Pampa.
“Our goal is to build the bowling community back up,” Stanford said. “Our overall goal is to have a high school bowling team.”
The Zone has both adult and youth bowling leagues. Youth who participate in these bowling tournaments can earn money for scholarships.
“There is a youth state bowling tournament every year,” Stanford said. “In our association, which is between two centers, we take around 40 kids to compete in this tournament. They do extremely well.”
Bagwell’s father and grandfather have participated in The Zone’s adult bowling league. Thanks to their shared interests, Bagwell decided to join the youth bowling league.
Bagwell recounted his experience during the USBC 2022 Youth Tournament.
“It was nerve racking. I had a perfect game through the 8th frame. I noticed it around the 7th frame. Everyone noticed it, too,” Bagwell said. “I eventually missed my spot. I picked up a spare and was still able to pick up the 54 and eventually, the 700 series.”
Bagwell’s final score for the High Game Scratch was 254 and 705 for the High Series Scratch.
Though it is a ways away, Bagwell has big plans in store for his bowling future.
“When I’m 18, I want to go to the USBC Open Championship in Nevada,” Bagwell said.
Bagwell expresses his sincerest gratitude for all the support he’s received.
“I want to thank Cody and my grandpa for being there and supporting me,” Bagwell said.
For more information about The Zone Bowling Center, visit their website: zonebowlingcenter.com
