Local one to watch

By DEREK LARIVIERE
Published July 20, 2007

This weekend could be the perfect storm for one of Hernando County's best bowlers. Jason Mahr is coming off of a career season and could put the cherry on top with a solid performance in the Spring Hill PBA Southern Regional at Spring Hill Lanes.

Mahr is a regular at Mariner Lanes in Spring Hill, where he co-owns the Vic & Jay's Pro Shop, and Hudson Lanes. He also competes in the TGIF League at Spring Hill Lanes.

Mahr has led the county in average the past four seasons and seven times overall. After breaking the county record for high average in 2004-05 with 238, he averaged 244 over 139 games in the Tuesday Singles League at Mariner.

In the 2006-07 season, Mahr has tossed an unprecedented seven 300 games and six 800 series. For his career, he has 34 perfect games.

The young Spring Hill resident has competed in area PBA stops off and on over the years but refuses to put pressure on himself to win at that level. Even with the pros coming to town this weekend, Mahr took a unique perspective.

"There was no guarantee I would have bowled (in the tournament) if I didn't do well in the sweeper," said Mahr.

After his third-place finish Sunday in the PBA Regional Qualifying Sweeper at Spring Hill Lanes, his spot in the main event was sealed. Between the local atmosphere he is so familiar with and lane conditions that should suit his game, this might be Mahr's best shot at success in a pro tournament.

Mahr looks like the local favorite heading into this weekend. The oil pattern, nicknamed the Cheetah by the PBA, seems to be made for his fast, hooking ball.

It wouldn't be all that surprising to see him as one of the last few guys on the lanes Sunday afternoon.

[Last modified July 19, 2007, 22:32:58]