Sandpoint Wolves excel at regional bowling tournament

COEUR d'ALENE — The Sandpoint Wolves, the city's Special Olympics team, recorded numerous strikes, spares and smiles at a regional bowling tournament held at Sunset Lanes last Saturday.

David Fuentes, Jackson Barth, Andrew Rogers and Kevin Collins all won their respective men's divisions, while Tammy Shivel, Beverly Hudson and Caitlin Bayles won their women's divisions. Fuentes was one of the top bowlers at the tournament, recording a total score of 312 over two games, according to Chris Painter. 

"I was so happy with our team's efforts," Painter said. "They all do so well, but more than that, I am proud of how they all were so positive and encouraging to each other and to their opponents." 

Barth put together a total score of 270 over two games, while Race Barrett had a career day with a score of 217 over two games to earn second place in his division. 

Sandpoint Wolves bowlers John Painter, Lukas Birdsell, Eliyah Allen, Burton Radonich and Bob Leichtman also finished second in their men's division. On the women's side, Hayley Thompson, Renee Cunningham, Chelsea Dennis, Kathy Strandy and Hope Earle all recorded second place finishes. 

"Earle was the youngest player in the tournament," Painter said of the emerging star. 

Emily Rolicheck, Katie Kludt, Roy Burrows and Elliott Ball all claimed third place in their respective divisions.  

While the whole team found success, Painter's MVP award went to an athlete who didn't send a single ball down the lanes on Saturday. 

"My MVP pick for this sport did not get to attend the tournament due to a broken foot," Painter said. "Kyle Horowitz attended the last practices and cheered his teammates on anyway. He is always a great cheerleader, for himself and for his team."