By BOBBIE GREEN
The Progress
Mesquite Senior Games (MSG) hosted its Spring Bowling Tournament on Saturday, Mar. 27 at the Virgin River Lanes.
According to MSG officials, bowling is one of the most popular events in the Mesquite Senior Games. So much so, that in order to comply with COVID regulations of no more than 44 people in the Virgin River bowling lanes, this year’s tournament had to be split into two sessions: morning and afternoon.
Director of the Senior Games Amy Bradshaw and Bowling Event Director, Toni Gans had a busy day in supervising the games.
“Bowling is immensely popular and the only other event that has this much interest is track and field,” said Bradshaw. “These seniors were very worried when we had to cancel the track and field because of COVID. Many are worried they may not be around next year to compete.”
In addition to many local bowlers, the event drew competitors from all across the region.
“Twenty-five to thirty percent of the participants here are from outside of Mesquite,” said Gans. “One couple came here from Wyoming just to participate!”
Gans said that bowling is popular because it is such a social sport. “The thing about bowling is, the people you meet become friends for life,” she said.
The three-game event was handicap doubles. There were separate divisions for women, men and a mixed division. These were also divided into various age groups for competition. Gold, silver and bronze metals were given to the top bowlers in each division at the end of each session.
Bradshaw gave special recognition to the oldest participant in the tournament. Ray Malinski was celebrating his 90th birthday. He received a gift basket from Danielle’s Chocolates.
Malinski started bowling at age 18 for fun. “I continue to bowl to keep active and will continue as long as I can,” he said. “You have to keep yourself moving.”
Malinski has been participating in the Senior Games in St. George and Mesquite for the past twelve years. Oveer the years, he has accumulated 42 Gold and Silver medals in all.
Malinski has also been involved in horse racing. He has collected many trophies from the 17 racehorses he has owned over the years.
Originally from Montana, Malinski retired after 20 years as an Oil Field Contractor.
