The LIGBT announced today it is revising its schedule to better accommodate its over 1,000 members. New dates were announced through June 1st with future summer events to be revealed at a later date. The current schedule lists 16 events throughout Nassau and Suffolk bowling centers.
The LIGBT also announced it is upgrading its prize funds, adding a “members only” end-of-the-year event and bringing back its membership options including a $10 guest fee for those that don’t want to join. The entry fees are staying the same except are being reduced when handicap events have 2 squads where bowlers can now re-enter for only $40. All prepaid entrants still save $5 off the walk-in entry fee.
LIGBT bowlers are going to love the new prize fund structure. In the handicap events all finalists are guaranteed to earn at least $100 and all squad leaders will earn $150. The top prizes are still guaranteed to pay $500-1st and $250-2nd regardless of entries.
The scratch prizes funds are also being upgraded as all finalists (1 in 5) will earn a minimum of $200. In marathon events all finalists (1 in 5) will earn $250. Top prizes of $1,000-1st & $500-2nd are guaranteed with 35 entries but will grow to $1,500-1st & $750-2nd with 80 entries. All finalists will earn at least $100 more each round they advance. The extra prize money is being funded by the LIGBT who will add $5 per entry to all scratch prize funds. With the added money the LIGBT is now taking out less than 10% for expenses!
The LIGBT is creating a new event just for its members. This new tournament will have a minimum of $5,000 added and the entry fee will be determined by the number of events you bowl in a season. The more you enter the less your entry fee will be in this special tournament. The $5,000 added will be funded two ways; through the $5 walk-in fees and through the profits from the 50-50 raffles run at each LIGBT event. Details of the format and prize fund will be announced at a later date.
The LIGBT is also pleased to announce Columbia 300 will be partnering with us to offer a variety of membership packages. The annual membership fee has been reduced to $20 but bowlers can still get the embroidered 2-ball tote with their membership for $30. Bowlers looking for a performance ball can now purchase the gold package which includes the latest ball release from Columbia 300. This package, which comes with a 1-year membership, is only $120 (a $250 value.) Members needing a ball and a double or triple roller should consider the platinum packages which start at $160.
Beginning immediately, the 300 game bonus has been eliminated, and the remaining money is going to the end of the year tournament prize fund ($580.) The $10 recruiting bonus, which was funded out of your weekly prize fund, is also being stopped to allow for the bigger weekly prize funds. There are still no credit card fees being charged but the $5 walk-in fee remains.
The LIGBT wants to thank everyone that has supported the Tour for the past three years. Special recognition must go to the LIGBT sponsors; Columbia 300, Kegel, CLS Upholsterers, and Digital Motion. For more information please visit www.ligbtour.com or call the tournament office at 1.877.900.6464.