Harrison Central bowlers earn tourney honors

The Harrison Central boys bowling team traveled to Cy Young Lanes for a Saturday match Dec. 6 against Indian Valley. The Huskies posted games of 766, 890 and 1,000 and Baker games totaling 914 for a 3,570 overall score. Top individual scores included Owen Whitacre, 247-178-156; Wyatt Durbin, 207-192; Aiden Pettit, 204-204-172; Aaden Albaugh, 198-193-154; and LJ Mitchell, 159.

The team placed third, and two Huskies earned spots on the All Tourney Team. Whitacre and Pettit finished fourth and fifth with series of 581 and 580.

Pettit, now in his second year on the team, said he wished he had joined sooner. “I hope so,” he said when asked about the chance of qualifying for state. “I looked up to Kobe Hennis.” Hennis, a senior last year, qualified for state.

Pettit also praised the event hosts. “I want to thank Cy Lanes Indian Valley Tournament for inviting the HC bowling team to join them and bowl there for our tournament. We ended up placing third out of all individuals. I made the top five alternative team, which means the highest scores and highest series. I have worked really hard for this. I appreciate everyone supporting me throughout the season. I am looking forward to a great season.”

Whitacre echoed the appreciation. “It’s been quite the journey along my path, especially as a freshman,” he said. “I’m trying to do the best I can at what I love to do. I’ve put a lot of time and dedication into this sport and it’s finally paying off. It’s a blessing to be working with coaches and teammates who have helped me work toward achieving the All Tourney Award.”

The Huskies met Barnesville Tuesday. The Shamrocks dominated the boys match 2,371-1,571. High scores for Harrison were Whitacre with 297 and Albaugh with 285. The Lady Huskies, however, extended their winning streak with a 1,673-1,561 victory. Jaylie Byers led with a 394 and Tayla Thompson added 297.

School was canceled Thursday, but the Huskies still faced Union Local. The boys again struggled, falling 2,123-1,746. Whitacre rolled a 297 and Mitchell added 271. The girls secured another win, 1,765-1,613, with Byers scoring 311 and Thompson adding 360.

The Lady Huskies stayed hot Dec. 13 at the Indian Valley Invitational, taking first place and earning two more All Tourney selections. Byers and Bralee Thomas recorded series of 522 and 460.

“This achievement could not have happened without my team’s endless support and the guidance of my coaches,” Thomas said. “Also thanks to Todd Thompson, whose extra help gave me the confidence to do this.”

The Huskies return to action Dec. 16 in Bowerston against Conotton Valley. The Rockets’ leading scorers are Mihael Lorello and Lilly Booth.