The 2023 Tennessee state bowling tournament occurred on October 23, at Tenn Pin Alley in Columbia, Tennessee. The tournament included athletes and Unified Partners competing from all over the state.
The competition started bright and early on Monday morning, kicking off with the Law Enforcement Torch Run. The games began shortly after, electrifying the environment with competition and excitement.
One athlete, Michaela Clark from our Southeast Region, expressed her excitement about the tournament.
“It was fun because I like winning, and I like bowling,” said Clark.
Clark’s Unified Partner, McKenzie Kaylor, also acclaimed her experience of her first year bowling alongside Clark.
“My favorite memory was getting 3rd place in the group division," said Kaylor. "The athletes I was with were so happy. Watching them bowl better than me was an eye-opener!”
Both athletes competed with unmatched skill, passion and dedication, even taking home ribbons at the end of the day.
The tournament fostered opportunities for athletes to showcase their skills, as well as their teamwork and collaboration. Athletes and coaches communicated skill and strategy, to compete with the most rigor and precision.
Beyond the thrill of the competition, the state bowling tournament was a platform for athletes to engage with others from across the state who share their same passion and create a sense of community within the sport.
The games were filled with heated competition and joyful community, as seen by Clark when asked how her experience was.
“The experience was very good," said Clark. "I really enjoyed it a lot!”
The Special Olympics Tennessee State Bowling Tournament was a success with athletes from various areas and counties coming together in friendly, yet fierce competition, showcasing their hard work and skill.
Thank you to Tenn Pin Alley for hosting our athletes for yet another successful tournament.
