Tom Daugherty Wins Inaugural PBA LBC National Championships Clash

The inaugural PBA LBC National Championships Clash took place at the famous Bayside Bowl, where Tom Daugherty emerged victorious, claiming the grand trophy known as The Duke. This historic event saw twelve finalists competing in a one-ball roll-off eliminator for a chance to be the first-ever champion.

A Hard-Fought Victory

Daugherty showcased his skill and resilience, striking on 10 of his 12 shots (83.3%) and earning a $60,000 prize. In the final round, he faced PWBA star Danielle McEwan, ultimately outlasting her to secure the title.

Despite lifting The Duke, Daugherty made a surprising decision—not to take the trophy home.

“There’s no way I can take this trophy home,” Daugherty said. “This belongs at Bayside Bowl, so it’s going to stay here for all the bowlers to look at.”

A Journey of Survival

Daugherty and McEwan, the last two standing, were nearly eliminated early in the tournament. McEwan narrowly escaped in the first round after two roll-offs against Carleton Chambers. Daugherty struggled in Round 2, knocking down only seven pins and believing his tournament run was over. However, 17-year-old Trae Henrichsmeyer, winner of the Open Classic division, rolled a six-count, allowing Daugherty to advance.

Seizing this second chance, Daugherty struck on nine of his next ten shots, with his only non-strike coming in Round 6. This led to a roll-off against McEwan and Liz Johnson, where he admitted to making a mistake:

“I missed in and I had zero expectations of hitting the pocket,” Daugherty said. “But when it just laid there, it told me I could move over there and probably create even a little bit more area because it will hook from that spot.”

After that moment, Daugherty found his rhythm, leading off each round from Round 4 onward.

“I wanted to go at the top (of the lineup) because I wanted to strike and get it over with,” he explained. “As everyone was striking or getting nine, it was just putting more and more pressure down at the bottom of the lineup.”

By maintaining his consistency and composure, he sealed his victory in the final round against McEwan, who knocked down only seven pins.

Final Standings and Prize Money

1. Tom Daugherty – $60,000
2. Danielle McEwan – $10,000
3. Lennie Boresch Jr. – $3,000
4. Jake Peters – $3,000
5. AJ Johnson – $3,000
6. Verity Crawley – $3,000
7. Liz Johnson – $3,000
8. Derek Kindig – $3,000
9. Balinda Maple – $3,000
10. Hunter Lawless – $3,000
11. Trae Henrichsmeyer – $3,000
12. Carleton Chambers – $3,000

A Memorable Debut Event

The PBA LBC National Championships Clash delivered intense competition, dramatic moments, and an unforgettable victory for Tom Daugherty. As the trophy remains at Bayside Bowl, it serves as a testament to the event’s inaugural champion and the thrilling battles that unfolded on the lanes.