Farmingdale, NY: Tom Amendolara, Babylon, NY won the prestigious LIGBT Tournament of Champions at Farmingdale Lanes with a dominating final shootout performance. Tommy shot a 283, giving him a 54 pin victory, and the $1,000 top prize plus a beautiful crystal trophy. Finishing second with a 229 was Dwight Dunkley, Brooklyn, NY who earned $600. Third place went to Robert Vecchione, Massapequa Park, NY with a 225 worth $400 and fourth was taken by Angel Villavicencio, Whitestone, NY with a 219 worth $300.
The LIGBT TOC had 64 champions compete representing title holders from all 8 seasons. The tournament started with 4 games of qualifying with the top 16 advancing to match play. The cut to make the finals was 880. All 16 finalists were guaranteed a minimum of $150 and after two rounds of matches the final shootout was bowled.
The final shootout began with Tom having the first open which occurred in his second frame. But the open was a blessing in disguise as Tommy focused harder to throw the next six strikes to take a huge lead. The other 3 finalists could not get a string of strikes going so second place was the only prize they could shoot for.
The TOC was a very special event as all 64 bowlers received a champion shirt as part of their entry. After qualifying a hot lunch was served and everyone stayed to watch the final shootout. LIGBT produced an event program which listed all of the participant’s titles. The lane pattern used was Alcatraz (38 feet) and the total payout for the event was $4,500.
LIGBT’s next tournament is Sunday, March 6, 2016 at AMF Garden City. This 2 squad event features guaranteed prizes of $1,000-$500-$300-$250 and 1 in 6 advancing to the finals each squad. Entry fees are $65 and $55 and the lane pattern will be “Winding Road.” For complete results of the Tournament of Champions please visit www.ligbtour.com. The LIGBT is sponsored by Brunswick, Kegel, Randi Siegel Law Offices, Knockout Ball Cleaner and CLS Custom Upholsterers.