USBC Women’s Championship Kicks Off In El Paso

One of the biggest sporting events ever to come to El Paso kicked off Saturday amidst huge expectations.

The 2010 United States Bowling Congress Women Championships has taken over the El Paso Convention and Performing Arts Center. Saturday was the start of a 100-day run and nearly 6,000 bowling teams will compete on the 48 bowling lanes.

During the opening ceremony, bowlers, their relatives and spectators were treated to Mariachis and performers from VIVA El Paso.

Cyndi Hollinger of Wildomar, California is competing in her ninth championship. “The performance was great, and this venue is a lot different then we are used to,” she said, “I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, but it’s wonderful.”

Many bowlers said the setting for the championship was “one-of-a-kind.” “Most of us work in a bowling center, so we know what kind of work happens behind the scenes,” said Ellie Fears of Lake Elsinore, California. “We really appreciate what they did for us.”

City officials said Saturday the event is expected to provide $40 million to the El Paso economy over the course of the three months.

If you want to compete in the tournament, you have until April 1st to sign up.