BEDFORD, Ohio–There are two things you’ll take from Pearl Ring of Beachwood: her team spirit and determination.
Pearl comes to Roseland Lanes every week for senior league.
“I’ve just never stopped,” she said. “I’ve been bowling every week since 1950.”
The biggest cheers come from her son, Don, who dubs his mom the “Energizer Bunny,” fitting for the pink-clad senior.
“Oh yeah, she loves it,” Don said. “I love watching her play. She loves bowling. Doesn’t want to miss it.”
Yet, according to the United States Bowling Congress, she, like a true pearl, is a rare find.
She is among the eldest bowlers in the country. The oldest male bowler: 106. Female: 103. Just weeks ago, celebrated her birthday. Pearl is now 100.
“She kind of puts me to shame,” Don laughed. “I can’t play anymore because of a back problem. It’s amazing. So mom’s still bowling at age 100.”
Though the ball doesn’t always roll her way, her skills are legit. Her highest score is 206, which she made about 10 years ago.
Pearl’s 114 average still exceeds her age, and she doesn’t plan to put away her bowling ball or shoes anytime soon.
“What am I going to do if I give up bowling? Sit in a rocking chair?” Pearl exclaimed. “I don’t think so!”
The only thing she’d like to spare: the low scores. But friends won’t let it stop her.
With dedication as hard as the ball she rolls–as long as she’s able.
“And they say you don’t look at your score,” Pearl said. “You just bowl and have fun. You’re our inspiration.”