Mike’s Lanes to host 42nd annual Tom Boyes Memorial Best Ball Tournament

Pictured is Laurel Laughton, daughter of Tom Boyes, who continues to help run the annual Tom Boyes Memorial Best Ball Tournament at Mike’s Bowling Lanes. The 42nd installment of the tournament runs Nov. 1 at Mike’s Lanes.

By: Nichele Butcher-Bontrup

As tournament season kicks off at Mike’s Bowling Lanes, bowlers can look forward to another exciting year of five-pin bowling, beginning with the 42nd annual Tom Boyes Memorial Best Ball Tournament Nov. 1.

The tournament honours Tom Boyes, a longtime Mike’s Lanes bowler. This event was started by two fellow bowlers, one of whom was Rich Thibeault along with his friend John, to show gratitude for Boyes, as he was involved in the youth bowling program and extremely dedicated to helping with anything around the lanes, from cutting grass, to coaching the youth bowlers. What began as a 10-game competition has evolved over the years into the eight-game tournament bowlers compete in today.

The event’s history has been kept alive through the dedication of members of the bowling community, including Thibeault, who helped promote the tournament for many years. Boyes’ daughter, Laurel Laughton, continues to support the annual tradition by coming out to help with scorekeeping during the event. Her family, including Dennis and Catherine Laughton, also remain connected to the event, helping preserve the legacy of a tournament that has become a meaningful part of Mike’s Lanes history.

The 42nd annual event will feature eight games of best ball competition, with cash prizes to be won for first, second and third, as well as eight high-single prizes of $20, which will also be awarded, one per game.

The entry deadline is Saturday, Oct. 31. Interested bowlers are encouraged to register early for this annual memorial event.

As tournament season gets underway, the Tom Boyes Memorial is just the beginning of the excitement at Mike’s Lanes. The months ahead will bring a variety of competitions for bowlers of all ages, including Youth Bowling events, family competitions and opportunities to qualify for regional and provincial tournaments.

With a rich history behind it and plenty of action still to come, the bowling season is only just beginning. Events like the Tom Boyes Memorial serve as a reminder that bowling is about more than scores and trophies; it is about the people, families and traditions that keep the community strong year after year.

For more information or to register, contact Mike’s Bowling Lanes at 24 Lorne Ave. E by calling 519-271-2092, or visit the Lanes’ Facebook page.