And We’re Off – Opening Ceremonies at the USBC Open Championships

By Michael Cousins

It is that time of the year again; opening ceremonies have come and passed and the Open Championships are officially underway. All over the country, people are preparing for their annual shot at claiming that all-elusive Eagle.

This year’s event is being held at the South Point Bowling Plaza, in beautiful Las Vegas, Nevada. Every day this year, from February 18th – July 15th, people will file into the stadium to give it their all in hopes of finding their own success on one of bowling’s biggest stages.

There are many new changes to watch for at this year’s Open Championships. Of which include what is likely the biggest change: three all-new divisions, based on the individual’s skill level. You will have the Regular Division, which includes all bowlers over 210, a Standard Division, for bowlers between 181 and 209, and last, but certainly not least, the Classified Division, for bowlers under 180.

In addition to the divisional changes, USBC is attempting to keep the pattern(s) classified. In their attempt to do so, they have decided to put an end to their regular live streaming events and their regular pattern announcement show.

Some of these changes have been met with criticism. Others view the USBC’s attempts as a positive, as they believe it will bring a new level of integrity to the event.
Regardless of where you stand on the matter, one thing is certain: the biggest stage in bowling is set, the Open Championships are here, and its competitors are ready to bowl.