The Illinois chapter of the U.S. Bowling Congress (USBC) announced it will hold its 123rd Annual Open Tournament at Parkside Lanes in Aurora.
“We’re thrilled to bring this tournament to one of the premier bowling centers in Illinois,” said Betty McCann, president of the Illinois USBC. “The Illinois USBC is proud to provide our bowlers such an outstanding venue for this competition.”
The tournament is expected to attract hundreds of five-person bowling teams to compete over five weekends in the Spring. The Illinois USBC is a partner with the Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) to place the event in Aurora.
“Parkside Lanes is an ideal location for this competition given its proximity to lodging, dining, and attractions,” said Cort Carlson, executive director of the Aurora Area CVB. “The State’s best bowlers will enjoy competing in and visiting the Aurora Area of Illinois.”
Parkside Lanes took bowling’s center stage in 2019 as the setting for a series of Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) tournaments, including the PBA Illinois Open. Sean Rash, one of the best bowlers on the PBA circuit, resides in nearby Montgomery and lists Parkside Lanes his home bowling center.
Noting the longevity of the Illinois Open, the tournament has taken place since William McKinley was president in the late 19th Century.
— Aurora Area Convention & Visitors Bureau