Chris Langlo knew he needed a niche to attract bowlers when he took over as owner of Lane Glo North 21 years ago.
He decided the best advertising strategy was to host a Professional Bowlers Association South Region tournament, which annually brings in big-ticket bowlers.
The biggest name coming to this weekend's event is Walter Ray Williams Jr.
Williams, 44, ranked second in the world, is among more than 100 bowlers expected to contend for the $2,500 top prize.
The tournament kicks off with Friday's pro-am at 6:30 p.m. This is a chance for the New Port Richey center's junior and senior bowlers to hobnob with the professionals.
Bowling starts at 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.
"I like to have this tournament for my league bowlers," Langlo said. "This gives them the chance to watch the styles of some top bowlers, such as Williams, and see how they throw."
Williams, of Ocala, is the second-winningest player in PBA Tour history with 39 titles (two fewer than Earl Anthony) and a six-time player of the year.
"(Williams) is about the biggest name you can get on the tour," said Harry O'Neale, manager of the PBA South Region. "Fans flock to him."
This is not Williams' first trip to Pasco County. He swept the men's singles and doubles titles at the Cream of the Crop tournament in New Port Richey two years ago.
South Region points leader Ritchie Allen of Columbia, S.C., will be participating, along with PBA stars Jason Couch of Clermont and Steve Wilson of Lake Worth.
