Bowling is a sport that takes both strength and skill. But what many people don't know is how many women hit the lanes across New York State. As our Elyse Mickalonis tells us there are 530 all-women teams participating in the 76th annual New York State Women’s Bowling Championships, an event players say showcases why the sport means so much to them.

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BROOME COUNTY -- Five-hundred and thirty, four-player teams have just one thing on their mind this year: Bowling.

“It’s not only competitive, but it’s a one-on-one game between you and the pins,” said Donna Rivers, a Schenectady resident.

And out of more than 2,000 players, not one of them is a man.

“The women have made their place in history. I mean, look at us! We’re leagues and leagues strong,” said Rivers.

Walczyk, Tournament Chairwoman, added, “Women hold the crown right now. We have a much bigger tournament in New York than the men do.”

Bowlers from all over the state kicked off the 76th annual New York State Women’s Bowling Championships on Saturday at Midway Lanes in Vestal.

“All women and they bowl twice in the tournament, once for their team event and the next day they’ll bowl doubles with a partner and single,” said Walczyk. “Eligible for prizes.”

Bowlers will continue to compete throughout the month and into May in a pair of championship tournaments conducted by the New York State USBC.
Many say they’re not in it to win a prize.

“Bowling has enabled me to travel around and bowl with a great group of girls,” said Debbie Truelove, Schenectady Resident.

Anna LaTorre, Schenectady Resident, added, “I love to go and check out different cities, different bowling alleys. It’s a challenge, because every bowling alley is different.”

If you’re looking for something fun to do in your SPARE time, these ladies say to give bowling a shot even if you’ve never played before, because you’ll have a fun time knocking down some pins.

"We need young bowlers. The older bowlers are maybe getting too old to bowl or
not with us anymore and we need young blood,” said Truelove.

LaTorre added, “All shapes sizes, anyone can do it.”

A game that doesn't discriminate.