Connecticut bowler honored for 50 appearances at Open Championships
June 10, 2026
RENO, Nev. – Judd Bell of Stamford, Connecticut, recently joined the 50-Year Club with his latest appearance at the United States Bowling Congress Open Championships, one of the most prestigious and enduring events in the sport.
To commemorate the occasion, Bell was welcomed with a ceremonial march down the center aisle at the National Bowling Stadium, accompanied by his daughter, Valerie Cadman, and teammate, George Zaccagnini. Fellow competitors and spectators applauded the milestone, recognizing Bell’s dedication to the tournament.
In addition to his time in the spotlight, he also received a plaque, chevron and diamond lapel pin.
Bell made his tournament debut during the 1974 event in Indianapolis, and his journey has showcased his commitment to compete.
Looking at the many stops along the journey, Bell noted his visit to Mobile, Alabama, for the 1994 event as a favorite. He recalls a freight train that frequently passed near the convention center, creating a unique challenge for participants.
“You had to make sure that you were on the right side of the tracks, or you might miss your squad,” Bell said with a laugh.
Through 50 appearances at the Open Championships, Bell has knocked down 77,172 pins while maintaining a 171.8 average.
When asked what it meant to reach the milestone, he responded with humility.
“I’m just happy that I lasted that long,” Bell said.
Along with his accomplishments at the tournament, he has recorded two 300 games and is a member of the Lower Fairfield County Bowling Association Hall of Fame.
Bell’s 50th appearance places him among a select group of competitors who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication to the Open Championships, underscoring a lifetime commitment to the sport and bowling community.
The Open Championships is celebrating its 122nd edition in 2026 and making its 15th trip to Reno, Nevada. The 2026 event is scheduled to feature more than 55,000 bowlers and 11,000 five-player teams competing across 128 consecutive days at the National Bowling Stadium.
Follow the action from the tournament’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts.
To commemorate the occasion, Bell was welcomed with a ceremonial march down the center aisle at the National Bowling Stadium, accompanied by his daughter, Valerie Cadman, and teammate, George Zaccagnini. Fellow competitors and spectators applauded the milestone, recognizing Bell’s dedication to the tournament.
In addition to his time in the spotlight, he also received a plaque, chevron and diamond lapel pin.
Bell made his tournament debut during the 1974 event in Indianapolis, and his journey has showcased his commitment to compete.
Looking at the many stops along the journey, Bell noted his visit to Mobile, Alabama, for the 1994 event as a favorite. He recalls a freight train that frequently passed near the convention center, creating a unique challenge for participants.
“You had to make sure that you were on the right side of the tracks, or you might miss your squad,” Bell said with a laugh.
Through 50 appearances at the Open Championships, Bell has knocked down 77,172 pins while maintaining a 171.8 average.
When asked what it meant to reach the milestone, he responded with humility.
“I’m just happy that I lasted that long,” Bell said.
Along with his accomplishments at the tournament, he has recorded two 300 games and is a member of the Lower Fairfield County Bowling Association Hall of Fame.
Bell’s 50th appearance places him among a select group of competitors who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication to the Open Championships, underscoring a lifetime commitment to the sport and bowling community.
The Open Championships is celebrating its 122nd edition in 2026 and making its 15th trip to Reno, Nevada. The 2026 event is scheduled to feature more than 55,000 bowlers and 11,000 five-player teams competing across 128 consecutive days at the National Bowling Stadium.
Follow the action from the tournament’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts.