Kerry Smith Claims Victory at 2023 PWBA Greater Pittsburgh Regional

Third Time’s the Charm for Smith in a Thrilling Win

Kerry Smith secured her long-awaited victory at the Professional Women’s Bowling Association (PWBA) Greater Pittsburgh Regional at Nesbit’s Lanes on Saturday. After finishing second in previous PWBA regional events in Spokane, Washington, and Aberdeen, North Carolina, the 38-year-old right-hander from Lititz, Pennsylvania, finally clinched the title, delivering a dominant performance.

In the title match, Smith bowled an impressive 255-226 against tournament leader Summer Jasmin of Beckley, West Virginia. Striking nine times on a challenging lane condition, Smith demonstrated precision and confidence.

“Just getting to the title match in three events has been awesome,” said Smith. “Winning this one helps boost my confidence for the national tour next month. The competition was tough, so finally breaking through feels amazing.”

Victory Secures Spot in PWBA Regional Showdown

This victory marks Smith’s second PWBA regional title, following her win at the 2022 Twin Cities Regional in Eagan, Minnesota. Along with a $1,700 prize, the win also guarantees her a spot in the season-ending PWBA Regional Showdown, scheduled for December 7-9 at Aloma Bowl in Winter Park, Florida.

At the Regional Showdown, Smith and other 2023 regional champions will receive automatic entry into match play, with additional spots awarded through an eight-game qualifying round. The top 16 competitors will battle through round-robin match play, leading up to the stepladder finals, where the ultimate champion will be crowned.

The winner of the Regional Showdown will not only take home a cash prize but also receive entry fee coverage for all 2024 PWBA National Tour singles events—a major financial boost for professional bowlers.

“It’s amazing to qualify for this event,” Smith shared. “Traveling and competing on the national tour is expensive, so having a shot at free entry for next year is a tremendous opportunity.”

A Rematch of Rivals in the Finals

Smith and Jasmin’s faceoff in Pittsburgh was a rematch from the PWBA Pinehurst Regional in Aberdeen, where Smith defeated Jasmin in the semifinal match, 224-206.

This time, Smith, known for her straighter, speed-dominant style, took an early lead by opening with three consecutive strikes before converting a spare in the fourth frame. Jasmin, playing a deeper inside line with more hook, responded with a strong mid-game surge, but Smith maintained her momentum, striking from frames five through eight.

A crucial strike in the 10th frame sealed Smith’s victory, as Jasmin’s attempts to close the gap fell short. Reflecting on her win, Smith noted her strategic advantage:

“I think I had an edge because no one else was playing the outside line. The regional patterns are versatile, but as a straighter player, I stick to what works for me.”

Stepladder Finals Recap and Prize Payouts

Only four players averaged 200 or higher in the eight-game qualifying round leading up to the stepladder finals:

1. Summer Jasmin (1,708 total pins, 213.5 avg.)
2. Karsyn Lukosius (1,703 total pins, 212.8 avg.)
3. Kerry Smith (1,681 total pins, 210.1 avg.)
4. Sandra Toole (1,604 total pins, 200.5 avg.)

Match Results

• First Match: Smith defeated Sandra Toole, 231-163
• Semifinal Match: Smith defeated Karsyn Lukosius, 235-190
• Title Match: Smith defeated Summer Jasmin, 255-226

Prize Money Breakdown

• 1st Place: Kerry Smith – $1,700
• 2nd Place: Summer Jasmin – $850
• 3rd Place: Karsyn Lukosius – $700
• 4th Place: Sandra Toole – $550

Next Stop: PWBA Rockford Regional

The next PWBA Regional event is set for August 27 at The Cherry Bowl in Rockford, Illinois. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Kerry Smith to see if she can build on this momentum and continue her winning streak.

Stay tuned for more updates as the PWBA Regional season unfolds! 🎳🔥