Connecticut bowler reaches 50 years at USBC Open Championships
May 28, 2026
RENO, Nev. – Charles Weyant of Stonington, Connecticut, recently achieved a major milestone at the United States Bowling Congress Open Championships, making his 50th appearance at one of the sport’s most prestigious and enduring events.
The accomplishment represents more than five decades of dedication, consistency and passion for competitive bowling, and Weyant was presented with a plaque, chevron and diamond lapel pin to celebrate the moment.
To commemorate the occasion, Weyant also was joined by teammate Josh Wessell for his ceremonial walk down the center aisle at the National Bowling Stadium, earning a standing ovation and applause from fellow competitors and spectators.
Weyant’s Open Championships journey began in 1973 in Syracuse, New York. Since then, he has traveled across the country year after year to compete in the tournament, building a legacy defined by longevity and commitment to the sport.
Among the many cities that have hosted the event during his remarkable run, his trip to Wichita, Kansas, in 1989 remains especially meaningful to Weyant.
“Wichita was my favorite because that’s where I bowled my best,” said Weyant, who posted an all-events total of 1,773 in Wichita.
Over the course of his Open Championships career, Weyant has knocked down 73,086 pins while maintaining a 164.6 average – an impressive showing to both his endurance and consistency on the lanes.
“My goal has always been to get to 50 years here,” said Weyant, who will celebrate his 99th birthday in July.
In addition to his accomplishments at the Open Championships, Weyant is a member of the Southeastern Connecticut Bowling Association (now Eastern Connecticut USBC) Hall of Fame, further cementing his lasting impact on the sport.
Weyant’s milestone appearance serves as a powerful reflection of the tradition, camaraderie and lifelong dedication that continue to define the Open Championships.
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.
The accomplishment represents more than five decades of dedication, consistency and passion for competitive bowling, and Weyant was presented with a plaque, chevron and diamond lapel pin to celebrate the moment.
To commemorate the occasion, Weyant also was joined by teammate Josh Wessell for his ceremonial walk down the center aisle at the National Bowling Stadium, earning a standing ovation and applause from fellow competitors and spectators.
Weyant’s Open Championships journey began in 1973 in Syracuse, New York. Since then, he has traveled across the country year after year to compete in the tournament, building a legacy defined by longevity and commitment to the sport.
Among the many cities that have hosted the event during his remarkable run, his trip to Wichita, Kansas, in 1989 remains especially meaningful to Weyant.
“Wichita was my favorite because that’s where I bowled my best,” said Weyant, who posted an all-events total of 1,773 in Wichita.
Over the course of his Open Championships career, Weyant has knocked down 73,086 pins while maintaining a 164.6 average – an impressive showing to both his endurance and consistency on the lanes.
“My goal has always been to get to 50 years here,” said Weyant, who will celebrate his 99th birthday in July.
In addition to his accomplishments at the Open Championships, Weyant is a member of the Southeastern Connecticut Bowling Association (now Eastern Connecticut USBC) Hall of Fame, further cementing his lasting impact on the sport.
Weyant’s milestone appearance serves as a powerful reflection of the tradition, camaraderie and lifelong dedication that continue to define the Open Championships.
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.