FELIX CHAC CHUO FARMS OPEN

champs Steven Manier & Michael Loera

            Steven Manier and Michael Loera captured their first JBT titles in exciting Southern California Conference action at the Felix Chac Chuo Farms, Inc. Open, hosted by Fantasy Lanes.

            A very touch condition was laid out for a double points event, and the survivor format led to do-or-die, low bowler out matches all throughout the center after the five-game qualifier.  In the scratch division, Cameron Smith was the top qualifier at just under a 200 average, then fired off 256-233 to coast into the round of four.  In that match, though, Jimmy Hefley came up with a big 245, while Smith could only post 181, and Hefley advanced to the final.  In the other match, Manier edged Andre Hernandez, making his first top-5 of the season, 196-158, to set up the title game.

            Manier has been red-hot ever since his top-ten finish at the Main Event, and the match between he and Hefley came down to the tenth frame.  Needing a 20-fill to win, Manier struck on the first ball to seal a 185-175 win and his first career JBT title.

            The handicap division was whittled from 18 survivors down to six.  In that round, Brooke Martinez edged Vincent Nolan 180-178, Luke Holley got past Brittany Kolatzny 166-159, and Loera got by fellow home-house bowler Cameron Patterson 209-196.

            This created a 3-way semifinal match, and in that round, Martinez could only watch as her 165 was beaten by big games from Loera (248) and Holley (247), advancing them to the title match.

            The title game was another of our always entertaining little guy - big guy matchup, and the 8 year-old Loera showed absolutely no fear of the veteran (and double his height) Holley, starting with strike-spare-triple en route to bowling the highest game of his life.  Luke bowled a fine game, but could do nothing but appluad Michael for the 276-198 win, good for his first career JBT title.

            Thanks to Felix Chac Chuo Farms for sponsoring a JBT event for the second consecutive season, and Fantasy Lanes for hosting us.  In all, over $1,400 in scholarships were awarded to bowlers of all ages and averages- want in on the fun?  Come on out to the next JBT event, it's really that simple!