Grizzled veteran Scott Arnold, in a Munson-like performance, rolled his way to a nail biting sudden death victory to claim the 2008 Skelton Cup. A strong start by 2007 champion Matt Foerster had the crowd anticipating the first repeat champion in Skelton Cup history. Arnold's steady diet of strikes and spares quickly put pressure on the favorites, each of them fading down the stretch. Brandon McKay's string of strikes ended as the last frames came up, leaving him out of contention.
Meanwhile, in lane 2, 2007 favorite Patrick Knisely, seeking to redeem his good bowling name, was steadily knocking down the pins. As Arnold closed out his 10th fram with a 159, Knisely, bowling last, needed 8 pins to claim the title. A hushed crowd watched as Knisely bent the ball in toward the head pin and counted 7 pins fall leaving both bowlers tied.
Under Skelton Cup rules, the bowlers moved to a neutral lane for a sudden death bowl off. In the first frame, Knisely's approach was interrupted by a PA announcement, and 3 pins stood. Needing only 8 to claim the title, Arnold stepped up with his usual flourish and showmanship. He left no doubt. A solid strike meant the Skelton Cup was his.
The 2008 Skelton Cup will surely go down in the annals of the tournament as one for the ages. Kyle Jones did not bowl.
Final Results
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