Karsyn Lukosius Triumphs at Myrtle Beach Regional in Thrilling Fashion

Karsyn Lukosius of Jackson, New Jersey, overcame early struggles and put on a stellar performance to claim victory at the 2024 Professional Women’s Bowling Association (PWBA) Myrtle Beach Regional on Sunday at Myrtle Beach Bowl.

A Rocky Start and a Strong Comeback

The competition was fierce, with only five out of 73 bowlers averaging above 200 over the eight-game qualifying round on a demanding 39-foot oil pattern. Lukosius faced an early setback with a 139 game but rebounded with impressive scores of 247 and 232, securing the third seed for the stepladder finals with a total score of 1,642 (+42).

“I didn’t have too high of expectations; I just wanted to make good shots and hope to cash,” Lukosius said about her mindset going into the event.

Stepladder Finals: A Gritty Climb to the Top

Match 1: Dominating Performance Against Corina Grasso

In her opening match, Lukosius took on Corina Grasso of Fort Collins, Colorado. She delivered a commanding 257 game, closing with seven consecutive strikes to defeat Grasso’s 177. Grasso finished in fourth place, earning $600.

Semifinals: Lukosius Overcomes 2023 PWBA Regional Showdown Winner Kerry Smith

Next, Lukosius faced Kerry Smith of Lititz, Pennsylvania, the reigning PWBA Regional Showdown champion.

Both players struggled to find strikes, making spare shooting crucial. Smith left six single-pin spares, including a critical missed 10-pin in the seventh frame. A timely ball change by Lukosius allowed her to string together strikes in the sixth and seventh frames, ultimately securing a 186-169 victory. Smith placed third, earning $700.

Finals: A Nail-Biting Battle Against Annalise O’Bryant

In the championship match, Lukosius went head-to-head with Annalise O’Bryant of Ball Ground, Georgia, a five-time Junior Team USA member.

Neither player could break away until O’Bryant left the 3-4-7 split, failing to convert. Lukosius had a chance to take control but left a 2-8-10 split, keeping O’Bryant in contention.

The match came down to the final frames. O’Bryant had the opportunity to win with a max score of 215, but Lukosius forced the pressure by striking out in the 10th, finishing at 212. O’Bryant needed to double and get eight pins on her final shot to secure the title.

After striking twice, she missed right on her final attempt, leaving the 1-2-4, tying the match at 212 and triggering a one-ball roll-off.

One-Ball Roll-Off: Lukosius Seals the Victory

Both competitors delivered strikes on their first two roll-off attempts, showcasing their determination. On the third shot, Lukosius struck again, but O’Bryant left a ringing 10-pin, giving Lukosius the championship.

With the win, Lukosius earned $1,800 and an automatic berth into the season-ending PWBA Regional Showdown in Winter Park, Florida, this December.

“It feels nice to know that I’ve earned my spot into the Showdown, and I’ll keep myself prepared for that in December,” Lukosius said after her victory.

Her ability to stay focused under pressure and deliver in clutch moments cemented her place among the rising stars of professional women’s bowling.