In 2012, the United States Bowling Congress introduced a VIP program to help enhance the tournament experience at the USBC Open Championships, while the one-of-a-kind Showcase Lanes were created to add a new dimension to preparing for competition.

Both additions to the tournament landscape have proven to be extremely popular as more than 250 bowlers signed up for the VIP program in its inaugural year, making it a sellout for 2012. Bowlers interested in signing up for 2013 should visit BOWL.com/vip for more information.

With the 2012 event just past the halfway point of its 151-day run, reservations continue to roll in for the Showcase Lanes. More than 1,100 practice and coaching sessions already have been booked, but times are still available for interested bowlers headed to Baton Rouge.

"We are very pleased with the response to the addition of the VIP program and Showcase Lanes, and we're already looking at how to make them even more successful in 2013," said Brian Lewis (pictured right), USBC Managing Director of Tournaments.

"We're excited to be able to offer both programs again next year, and we're developing a VIP program for the USBC Women's Championships as well."

The current VIP program includes front-of-the-line service at check-in and in the scale room, a one-hour lesson with USBC Silver coach Bill Hall, VIP polo shirt, complimentary locker, bonus coupons, Bowling Ball Express discount, tickets to the televised finals of the USBC Masters and Queens and discounts on merchandise, photos and videos - all for $199.95. USBC plans to adjust and enhance the program in 2013 based on customer feedback.

The Showcase Lanes, four lanes constructed on the second level of the Baton Rouge River Center, give bowlers the opportunity to practice on the same lane surface and oil pattern they'll be facing downstairs on the 48 tournament lanes.

 

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