Michigan man shoots 299 at Open Championships
The 34-year-old right-hander opened singles with 11 consecutive strikes before a 10-pin came between him and the 26th perfect game of this year's event at the National Bowling Stadium in Reno, Nev. He finished with games of 167 and 215 for a 681 total Thursday. His highest singles set in eight previous tournament appearances was 671.
"I did get to practice a few times in the last couple of months, and I got to practice on a variation of the Open Championships pattern while visiting some friends in Detroit, and both seemed to help me," McCain said. "I can also say that this was the first time my mind was completely clear and there were no false expectations coming off of a good league season. I just went out there relaxed and let things happen."
McCain's main goal for the trip was to roll his first 1,800 all-events total, so his run at perfection was a welcomed surprise.
"Because I haven't bowled much lately or been in a position where I had a lot of adrenaline, I was especially nervous on the first shot in the 10th frame," McCain said. "I've shot 300 before, so I really shouldn't have been nervous, but when I turned around after carrying the 10th one and saw everyone watching, I realized what a big deal it is to shoot 300 here. I thought I threw the last shot pretty good, and I really wish I could've gotten the 10 out."
McCain added 577 in doubles and 570 in team for 1,828. His highest all-events total entering this year was 1,785, which he bowled at the Stadium in 2001.
"This tournament is about making and repeating good shots, and not letting a small mental meltdown after a couple of bad frames turn into a total meltdown," McCain said. "I know what I'm capable of and what I need to do, so I was disappointed with not shooting 1,800 before now. But everything is a stepping stone, and hopefully now that I broke through a little bit, I'll be able to trust myself more and do even better next time."
Presenting sponsors for the 2007 USBC Open Championships are Eldorado, Silver Legacy and Circus Circus Hotel/Casinos in Reno, Nev. Other participating sponsors are Kegel, official lane maintenance provider, Sands Regency Casino and Hotel, official brackets sponsor and supporting sponsors Atlantis Casino Resort and Spa and Harrah's Casino and Hotel.
By Matt Cannizzaro and David Ellis USBC Communications