WORTHINGTON -- In just its second year, the King Turkey Day annual bowling tournament Saturday at Oxford Bowl exceeded expectations.
A third shift of bowling was added to this year's event, after 32 teams took part in last year's tournament. This year, 48 teams with five people per team, bowled during three shifts. The first teams bowled from 1 to 3:30 p.m., the second shift of bowlers competed from 4 to 6:30 p.m. and the final shift was from 7 to 9:30 p.m.
"I'm just elated with the turnout," said Cindy DeGroot, organizer of the bowling tournament and KTD board member. "I never thought there would be this many people. It's overwhelming to look around and see all of the support from the community."
King Turkey Day, Worthington's community celebration that takes place each September, is made possible by fund-raisers, business donations and community support.
DeGroot said there is a myth that many people think the City of Worthington funds the event. Although the city gives a donation to KTD, that is just a part of what is needed to host the annual event.
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Kari Meyer, the 2006 KTD president, admitted that board members were hesitant at first about how a bowling tournament would go over.
"We're so thrilled we added a third shift this year," she said.
According to DeGroot, the board may look to add more shifts and maybe even another day to next year's tournament.
"We thought it's a great time of year, and we wanted to do something different," Meyer said. "Turkey Day is in September, but we are planning already in December."
Saturday's tournament was a 9-pin, no tap. Door prizes and payouts were given to the top teams. People traveled from many surrounding towns including Madison, S.D., Lakefield and Sibley, Iowa, to participate in the event.
"Over half of the teams that are here are non-sanctioned bowlers," said DeGroot, who bowls on a league. "They just came out for the fun."
While teams were busy bowling, there were plenty of fans watching and cheering for their favorite bowlers. Oxford Bowl was filled with people throughout the day including KTD board members and race team members.
Seth Darling, of Rushmore, who was competing on a team with family and friends, was enjoying the event.
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"It's fun, it gets the community together and it's a good way to support King Turkey Day," Darling said while taking a break from his bowling. "I hope it goes on for many years, because it is a great time."
