Bellinger places 6th in 2013 State Games of America Tournament

Bellinger bowled two days of qualifying rounds at ABC East Lanes in Harrisburg, PA, and ended in 6th place for ages 11 & under mixed handicap division. (submitted photo)

Terryk Bellinger, a North Mahaska Elementary 4th grader, and Mahaska Bowl/USBC Youth, placed sixth in the Bowling: 11 & Under Mixed Handicap tournament at the 2013 State Games of America.

This Olympic-style event featured competition between State Games medal winners (gold, silver, and bronze) from across the nation. Currently, 31 states conduct or organize statewide sports festivals known as State Games. Medal winners from State Games programs in 2011 and 2012, as well as medal winners from the 2011 State Games of America in San Diego were eligible to compete in the Hershey Harrisburg region in 2013.

Bellinger competed in two days of qualifying rounds, ending with a grand total of 1253 pins (including handicap). His overall scratch for the six games was 671, with a high game of 135. He bowled an average of 13 pins over his 2012-2013 season ending average of 98.

In addition to athletics, competitors were encouraged to participate in the Parade of Athletes held at the Giant Center on August 1st. As part of the festivities, Bellinger was honored to carry the sign for the state of Iowa.

2013 marks the 8th year for the State Games of America. Bellinger qualified for this tournament by taking the gold medal in the 2011 Iowa Games, at age six. He plans to continue bowling, and try to qualify for the 2015 State Games which are to be held in Lincoln, Nebraska.