Local bowler wins Strikers Directory tour event in Cedar Rapids

MONROE — Darin Galbraith needed to mark in the 10th and final frame to win the Strikers Directory tour this past weekend.

After dropping his first game of the match-play bracket, Galbraith had to come all the way back through the loser’s side to claim first place.

Galbraith won six straight matches on his way to the tournament title. He won his match 245-236, which meant he had to mark in the 10th frame to win.

“It came down to the last frame so that was a mark that I had to have to win,” Galbraith said while playing in the Monroe men’s league at Mustang Lanes on Monday.

Galbraith plays on the Strikers Directory tour in Cedar Rapids all year long. The tour has tournaments throughout the city. This was the first tournament Galbraith won.

The bowlers took part in eight qualifying games to decide who advanced to the match-play bracket. Galbraith was the top qualifier but dropped his very first match with a modest 170 score.

That would be the last time he would lose. Sparked by a 228 average, Galbraith took down every opponent in his way the rest of the day. His top score was a 290 and he also had a 252 and three games in the 240s.

He had to beat the top seed in the winner’s bracket twice during the double elimination tournament.

“I believe I ended up in the top three for total points for the entire tour,” said Galbraith, who runs the pro shop at Mustang Lanes.

Galbraith likes to compete but said his true passion is helping others improve their bowling scores. He likes coaching high school kids and helping out other bowlers during the men’s league on Mondays.

“I do all sorts of things here at Mustang Lanes,” Galbraith said. “If anyone wants help with their bowling game just contact the bowling alley here, and I would be glad to help.”