THUNDER BAY -- The opportunity to compete for his country is a “dream come true” for Daniel George.
The 17-year-old tenpin bowler is off to represent Canada at the Lee Evans Tournament of the Americas, which will commence Sunday in Sunrise, Fla.
George, the 2013 Youth Bowling Canada’s national junior boys’ singles champion, was one of four selected to the team. He is the first male from the city to earn a selection and the third Lakehead bowler overall.
“I’m very honoured to be chosen for this tournament,” George said prior to a practice session at Mario’s Bowl earlier this week.
“It is going to be awesome. I’m going to do my country proud and it’s going to be the best experience of my life so far.”
George finished the current season with a 201 average and a high game of 275.
His coach, local bowling legend Brian McLean, said it has been at least 15 years since a bowler as talented as George has emerged from the city.
“It’s a big boost for bowling in Thunder Bay,” McLean said.
George has been bowling competitively for the past eight years, while becoming well-known on the junior national landscape.
He says he will not be overcome by the big stage.
“I’m very concentrated and focussed on whatever I have to do,” George said.
McLean predicts George’s first international appearance will mark only the start of his ascent in the sport, particularly with his pupil’s strong will to succeed.
“I think it’s his determination. Daniel has made up his mind that he wants to excel in the sport he’s picked and he has proven that, especially this year,” McLean said.
“Now, he knows he can compete with the other bowlers. In any sport, once you get to that stage where you know you can compete, you will excel all the way up.”
George will be competing in singles, doubles and team events with the competition wrapping up on Aug, 2.
