Family Fun Center plans major bowling tournament

McCook is home to several great events that pull in visitors from around the tri-state area and beyond. The Buffalo Commons Storytelling Festival, John Mullen Pro-Am Golf Tournament, McCook Balloonfest, and events at the Kiplinger Arena are just a few. A new event is about to be added to that list -- the McCook Businessmen's Classic Bowling Tournament.

Terry Sides, who owns TJ's Family Fun Center located on North Highway 83 in McCook, is spearheading the six-weekend men's and women's tournament. With a first place prize of at least $2,000, Sides has a goal of drawing 300 entries from a 600 mile radius into this year's event. The total prize fund for the entire tournament will be more than $8,000. The tournament will take place each weekend starting April 19 and 20 with the final weekend on May 24, 25, and 26.

Organizing bowling tournaments is not a new thing to Sides. He worked on a similar tournament in Grand Junction, Colo., which has grown tremendously since it began in 1986. "There's no reason this tournament couldn't grow the same way," remarked Sides. He has been amazed at the support he has received from McCook and area businesses for the tournament. "We've already sold out of our Sweeps sponsorships. Everyone seems to be really excited about bringing something new into the community. I'd love to be able to give away double the prize money!"

The tournament is possible because of the support from McCook and area businesses -- hence the name "McCook Businessmen's Classic."

Major sponsors include: Pizza Hut, Pepsi, Bill's Service, Affordable Plumbing, Diamond Vogel, Samway Furniture and Floor Covering, Lewis Motor Sports, Taste of Texas, Tri-State Spas, Wagner Motors, KICX, Schmick's Market, K-C Motor & Electric, Terry's Repair/Spirit Shop, Holiday Inn, Chief Motel, Wells Fargo, Acme Touch Printing, AmFirst Bank, The Thompson Company, and McCook Daily Gazette. To be involved in the tournament, either as a sponsor or a bowler, contact Sides at (308)345-2700.

As if organizing a major tournament isn't enough, Sides is also planning a 40 x 140 addition to the south side of his bowling alley this summer.

The addition will allow him to offer improved food and drink service. Work on the addition is slated to begin in early June.