Emig wins week 10 of head-to-head match play

A total of 29 bowlers competed in the 10th week of head-to-head match play Dec. 23 at JR Lanes in New Athens.

All 29 competitors made the cut and advanced to head-to-head play. Chris Emig secured the top qualifying position with a 481 series, earning a complimentary entry into the following week’s match play.

“Friday, Jan. 30, we will guarantee $200 for first place in the day’s competition,” organizer Rayann Runevitch said. “The event is open to the first 40 registered and paid bowlers.”

In the semifinals, Emig defeated Nathan Norris 256-205, while Matt Hall out-rolled Blaine Salisberry 233-216.

Emig stayed hot throughout the evening and captured the finals with a 180-176 victory over Hall.

“Chris Krebs was our sponsor for the night,” Runevitch said. “Based on the night’s participation, our payout structure allowed us to offer $180 for first place, $90 for second place, and $40 each for third and fourth.”

Competition resumes Friday at 9 p.m., with the goal of qualifying for the finals in Week 17. Bowlers who compete at least seven weeks without securing a win during the first 15 weeks will qualify for the nonchampions week in Week 16.

“With the anticipation of bad weather, we were very pleased to be able to hold this week’s competition,” Runevitch said. “JR Lanes would also like to extend its gratitude to all participants and looks forward to seeing everyone next week.”