The True Amateur Tournaments (TAT) in Las Vegas is an event truly built for every amateur bowler. Each year, more and more bowlers travel to the TAT to join the community of bowlers that Jamie McWilliams and his team has built. At SPI, we are honored to be a sponsor of these tournament series.
More than 1400 bowlers traveled to the Gold Coast Hotel & Casino to participate in the 2024 True Amateur Nationals. In the thrilling conclusion of the TAT Nationals, Marvin Hale of Thousand Oaks, CA emerged as the ultimate champion, securing the prestigious title and a substantial prize of $20,000. He qualified through the 37 & Above Handicap Division. Hale's who works full-time as a graphic designer has made it to the grand finals several times exhibited extreme focus and determination throughout the final game of the event.
Ole Johnny Lislien traveled all the way from Kongsberg and qualified through the 189 & Under Handicap division. He had previously made it to the 5th round of the finals. He’s had success in international competitions winning the Copenhagen Open and Silver Ball Open in 2003. He finished second for the event.
Darryl McDuffie of Melville, New York qualified through the 50+ Senior Handicap division and shared that he made himself a promise to win the TAT this year. He’s been bowling for more than 30 years and have more than 100 300 games. He showcased his remarkable abilities to clinch the third spot, displaying impressive consistency throughout the event.
Rounding out the top positions, Rogario Bachi from Brazil who was bowling in his very first TAT qualified in the 215 & Under Division. His friends who were cheering him on knew he could make the Grand Finals in his first event even though he wasn’t as sure. Before this event, he was a 2-time champion in the local Brazilian tournaments. He showcased his talents to secure the fourth position, while Luis Fernandez from Nuevo Leon, who qualified in the 36& Under division rounded out the top five, displaying great skill and determination. Luis said though the day a bit stressful getting to the Grand Finals it was a great experience and he met lots of friends.
The True Amateur Tournaments (TAT) is an event built for every style of bowler! Throughout the event you meet people from diverse backgrounds who share a love for bowling. You’ll meet new friends and make memories that will last a lifetime.
The next events are:2024 TAT Summer Classic June 30th- July 7th, 2024 Orleans Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas
2025 TAT Nationals February 1st-9th, 2025 South Point Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas
For more information about the event visit https://www.trueamateurtournaments.com/.
To watch the Grand Finals on YouTube click here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msInlaWem1M