SIOUX CITY, Iowa - For the first time in program history, the Columbia College bowling team earned their first-ever tournament title at the Mustang Invitational over the weekend. This also marks the first time in program history to have had three straight events over 100 USBC power points accumulated.
In day one of the Mustang Invitational, the Cougars placed third of 12 teams, finishing only 61 pins behind Hastings who placed first. Saturday's format was five team games.
In day two of action, Columbia claimed the top spot, showing consistency in the match play portion. The Cougars did not having a game lower than 160 and shot 198 to help seal up the program's first ever tournament win. Columbia finished seven pins ahead of runner-up, Peru State College (Neb.). Despite a slow start in day two, the Cougars managed to average 173 across the 20 Baker games to move up into the top 3. It was slated as the team's highest baker average of the season.
Individually,
Rhyleigh Wilson earned first overall title in the day one event. Wilson averaged 197 across the five games to win by nearly 50 pins. This is Wilson's first individual title of her career as she becomes the fifth tournament champion and third different bowler to win an individual title.
Samantha Malley claimed a spot in the top 15, placing 12th and averaged a 166. This deemed Malley's highest finish of the season and is her third career top 25 finish. Further,
Allyson Johnson also placed 17th, making it back-to-back tournament finishes in the top 20.
Day 1
The Cougars will return to action as they will host their first-ever Columbia Cougar Clash presented by Columbia Sports Commission on January 18-19.
