Bowling Tournament for St. Michael's Bongaarts Approaches

The registration deadline for the Joey Bongaarts Memorial Bowling Tournament is coming up Friday. Register today to get in on the action.

March will mark the fourth anniversary of Joey Bongaarts' tragic death. Joey died in a tragic ATV accident in Brainerd just a month after turning 21.

He was loved by many, as more than 1,200 people attended his wake, some of them waiting hours to pay their last respects.

Joey touched many people’s lives in his job at River Lanes Bowling alley, where he worked as both a bowling instructor and a bartender. Just out of high school, he started teaching kids how to bowl, and he quickly connected with youth in the community.

He even gave his first bowling ball to a child looking to improve his game.

Those in the community who knew Joey remember how happy-go-lucky and joyful he was.

To remember Joey and honor his memory, Joey’s parents and a great group of friends put together the annual memorial event.

This year’s fourth installment is Saturday, March 3 at, where Joey used to work and play. The event provides scholarships to both and Also, the SMART (St. Michael/Albertville River Lanes Team) bowlers will compete for scholarship money this spring.

There are open sessions for all ages at noon and 3 p.m. Cosmic bowling for all ages begins at 6 p.m. At 9 p.m., Moonlight Bowling takes over, just for those 18 and up. Fees for bowling are $25 per person and $35 per person for Moonlight. All paid bowlers will also receive a T-shirt and an opportunity for door prizes during their bowling session.

Food is available all day for a  donation. Food selections will include the "famous" chili, hotdogs, chips and cookies.

Donations for the event are still being accepted and bowlers are still welcome. Even if you aren’t a bowler, there will be food and raffles all day.

More information can be found at Joey's website.