RENO, Nev. - The one-of-a-kind venue created for the 2013 United States Bowling Congress Women's Championships certainly gives the event a true championship feel, but the spectacular setting isn't the only way for bowlers to feel like celebrities at the tournament this year.

The new USBC Women's Championships VIP program allows participants to experience the event from a whole new perspective, which includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, access to the VIP lounge and a one-on-one lesson on the Women's Championships lane condition with USBC Silver coach Matt McNiel on the recently-installed 900 Global Showcase Lanes inside the nearby National Bowling Stadium.

An express check-in opportunity gives VIPs more time to spend with their teammates, while a variety of discounts allows them to enjoy even more great aspects of the tournament experience.

"We're happy to introduce this program to the Women's Championships this year in Reno," said Women's Championships Tournament Manager Eric Pierson. "We saw the program succeed in its first year at the USBC Open Championships, and we're excited to be able to offer a little something extra to make the trip even more memorable for our Women's Championships bowlers."

The VIP program was introduced at the 2012 Open Championships in Baton Rouge, La., and was a sellout with more than 250 participants. Since the two tournaments are as different as they are similar, the two VIP packages are a little different, too.

VIPs at the Women's Championships also receive a VIP polo shirt, lanyard and credential, photo package, complimentary locker, complimentary seating at USBC-televised events, discounts at the on-site USBC SportStore and Bowling Ball Express, wine-tasting package at the nearby Wild River Grille and $25 food/$25 beverage credit at Eldorado, Circus Circus or Silver Legacy (hotel stay required).

VIP packages for either event can be purchased exclusively at BOWL.com/VIP for $229.95.
 


With the Women's and Open Championships in the same host city in the same year for the first time in history, Women's Championships participants have the chance to enjoy both storied events as well as three exciting side events being held at the National Bowling Stadium alongside the Open Championships.

The 900 Global Showcase Lanes on the ground floor of the NBS, where the VIP lessons with McNiel are being held, also are home to the 900 Global Two-Game Challenge and the Who's Got the Look Baker Bonanza presented by 900 Global. Upstairs, on lanes 69-78, bowlers will find the Storm Bowlers Journal Championships presented by USBC.

The side events feature a variety of formats and average-based divisions. The Baker Bonanza and Bowlers Journal Championships even have women-only categories.

Here's what some Women's Championships VIPs are saying:

Irene Cassens, Sigourney, Iowa
Number of Women's Championships: 23

What was your favorite feature of the program?
I enjoyed the lesson with Matt. He helped me with several problems I have been having, especially with the 10 pin and 6-10 spare. I made more of those during this tournament than I have for several weeks.

What was the experience like for you?
I enjoyed it and hope to do more with it next year. I will pay extra for my daughter and granddaughter to join me next year.

Would you recommend the VIP Program to others bowlers?
Yes, the lesson was wonderful. It also helped to have the locker for overnight.

Jeanne Bierman, Alachua, Fla.
Number of Women's Championships: 15

What was your favorite feature of the program?
The coaching session was excellent.

What was the experience like for you?
I liked it. I'm looking forward to seeing the VIP program return next year, possibly with a team option so we all can enjoy it together.

Would you recommend the VIP Program to other bowlers?
Yes. The coaching experience gives you some insight to what the lanes will be like and how to approach your game. Also, Matt reviewed your bowling equipment with you!

Leanne Elwood, Mason City, Iowa
Number of Women's Championships: 1

What was your favorite feature of the program?
It was very fun going behind the scenes to learn about the equipment, and the lesson will be a great benefit.

What was the experience like for you?
Awesome!

Would you recommend the VIP Program to other bowlers?
Yes! For a first-time participant, the staff made me feel welcome. Everyone was so informative, and the best part was that we had a great time.

Presenting sponsors for the 2013 USBC Women's Championships include Circus Circus Reno, Eldorado Hotel Casino Reno and Silver Legacy Resort Casino Reno.