08/03/2023
A letter to our participants. This is my "why."
The Agent Ong Open Bowling Tournament: A Celebration of Love and Bowling 🎳
In response to a close friend asking me why I decided to take on the challenge of organizing this huge tournament, it made me reflect on my lifelong love for bowling and the significant role it has played in shaping who I am today. This idea of hosting a large tournament has been brewing in my mind for many years, and it wasn't until 2022 that I finally put pen to paper and began creating the event.
Bowling, a sport that has woven itself into the very fabric of my life, holds a special place in my heart and has been an enduring source of joy. Growing up in Tempe, AZ, I was introduced to this beautiful game by my father, William Ong, who was a man of remarkable wisdom and warmth. Despite the significant age difference between us, my father found unique ways to bond with me, and one of those treasured activities was taking me to the local bowling center, Fair Lanes Tempe Village. It was here, amidst the sound of rolling balls and the clattering of pins, that my love for bowling was born.
My father would sit there with his cup of coffee, savoring each moment as he watched me bowl for hours on end. It was evident how much I adored the sport, and to nurture that passion, he signed me up for my first Junior league on Saturday mornings. From those early days, my fondness for bowling grew exponentially, transitioning from recreation to hobby, and eventually, it became an obsession and a genuine love for the game. Bowling became a part of who I am, and through it, I found not just friends but a bowling family.
Bowling also holds a deeper significance for me, as it keeps the memory of my parents alive. Sadly, my father passed away when I was only 17, and my mother, Florence, followed him in January of 2018. But in a poignant moment, I achieved my first 300 ring, a symbol of perfection in the sport, and handed it to my mother as a farewell gift. I wanted her to take it with her, to show my father and let him know that I had finally achieved it, dedicating that milestone to them both.
The sport of bowling has given me a sense of purpose, and I've embraced the thrill of competition, including taking my shot on the PBA Tour during regional events. While I haven't seen great success on the professional front, I cherish every moment I spend on the lanes, embracing the camaraderie and sportsmanship that make bowling truly special.
It is with this immense love and passion for bowling that I proudly present the Agent Ong Open Bowling Tournament. This event is more than just another competition; it's a celebration of the sport and the sense of togetherness it fosters. My intention in organizing this tournament is to try and create something different and to showcase that Arizona can be a destination for tournament bowling on a grander scale. The Inaugural Tournament has my commitment to the integrity of the sport of bowling and genuine competition.
The name of the tournament itself holds a deeply personal significance as it represents who I am — a Travel Agency owner and a Real Estate Agent — thus, The Agent Ong Open was born as a tribute to my parents, using my birth name.
As we embark on this exciting journey, my goal is to create an atmosphere where bowlers of all levels, from aspiring amateurs to seasoned pros, can come together and revel in the joy of the sport. It is my sincere hope that every participant walks away from the tournament with a smile on their face, knowing they were part of an event run smoothly, with fairness and excitement in the air.
This dream-turned-reality could not have happened without the invaluable support of numerous individuals who shared their time, knowledge, and unwavering encouragement. From the papers that were almost shredded to the April of 2023 launch, their contribution has been immeasurable.
The Agent Ong Open Bowling Tournament is not just about the main event itself; we have included sidepots, brackets, and even a Thursday Night Sweeper. One of the highlights is the Smart program, generously provided by USBC (United States Bowling Congress), allowing young bowlers to participate in the tournament through scholarship opportunities.
As we come together for this inaugural event, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to those who played a significant role in making this tournament a reality. Your support means the world to me, and I am excited to welcome participants from all over to the Valley of the Sun, showcasing the incredible charm of Arizona.
In closing, I invite all bowlers, enthusiasts, and supporters to join us for the Agent Ong Open Bowling Tournament. Let us create lasting memories, embrace the spirit of sportsmanship, and bask in the love for bowling that binds us all together. Together, we'll continue to grow and make this tournament an annual celebration of our shared passion. See you on the lanes!
Regards,
Carl Ong
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