LAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
Lackland residents and guests are in for a treat when two Professional Bowling Association hall of famers visit to conduct a seminar and play in exhibition matches.
Norm Duke and Randy Pedersen will be at the Skylark Bowling Center, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 22.
Duke, a two-time PBA Player of the Year, and Pedersen, the 1987 PBA National Championship winner and ESPN Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour commentator, will also show off their trick shots, sign autographs, conduct a question and answer session, and be available for photos.
The event is sponsored by the 802nd Force Support Squadron. Cost for event participation is $19.95, or $9.95 for spectators only. Lunch is included.
Spectators who choose to later participate in activities, can pay the $10 difference.
Representatives from Storm Bowling Products will also be on hand with six reserved lanes for product demonstrations throughout the day.
"They'll have the newest bowling balls and equipment available. People will get the chance to see and use them on the lanes before buying," said Stephen Thompson, Skylark Bowling Center manager.
Thompson is excited to have the two PBA hall of famers come to his bowling center for the first time ever to interact with patrons.
"They are two of the most personable guys out there," Thompson said. "They are really good at interacting with the fans. I think it should be really fun for anybody that checks it out or participates."
Duke is excited to be back in San Antonio because the Alamo City was one of his first stomping grounds early on as he fine-tuned his bowling game, and he hopes his experience on the bowling alley will benefit potential bowlers.
"When you have bowlers such as me and Randy, who have 30 years experience, our portfolio of credentials gives us the credibility to help whomever. We can perfect their games."
Going to several military installations a year for more than 10 years is an opportunity to give back to the military that defends and protects the United States, said Duke.
"It's a special feeling when we can give back to our military who spend most of their time making a commitment to us by protecting and serving our country."
Thompson hopes Duke's and Pedersen's participation and instruction gets aspiring bowlers to bowl regularly.
"Their enthusiasm will gives people, who are up and coming and trying to learn, the desire to continue in the game," he said. "It's a lifetime sport. If you get into it, it's something you can do from age 6 to 80.
"What I'm trying to do is expose (bowling) to as many people as I can and get them to be lifetime bowlers," he added.