Charting her path

Sounds of pins crashing and bowlers cheering brought out the best in Shelby Chartrand.

The Camas High School sophomore rolled games of 233, 214 and 176 for a 623 series at districts Friday, at Allen’s Crosley Lanes. She finished in second place to qualify for state for the second year in a row.

“It was mostly just team spirit that set me into motion,” Chartrand said. “As much as I like bowling, I like cheering on my team more. These girls are like a second family to me. The louder we cheered for each other, the better we did.”

Battle Ground knocked down a total of 3,905 pins to win the district team title. Skyview took second with 3,737 pins and Evergreen earned third with 3,654 pins.

Camas finished in sixth place with 3,257 pins. Ariel Laycock tied for 18th place with a 460 series.

“My teammates had their ups and downs, but they achieved personal goals they didn’t even know were there,” Chartrand said. “And we all got better as a team.”

Each bowler completed three games and then the teams rolled seven bakers. Camas scored a 209 in the first baker capped off by three strikes in the 10th frame by Chartrand. The Papermakers added a 195 in the fifth baker after Chartrand tossed three more strikes in the 10th frame.

The state bowling tournament starts at 10 a.m. Friday, at Narrows Plaza Bowl, in Tacoma. The top eight individuals earn medals. Chartrand finished in eighth place last season. Her goal is to place higher this time around.

As much as she applauded her teammates, Chartrand also took the time to congratulate her opponents.

“They rolled better than me, and I wanted to reward them,” she said. “It’s not just about me, it’s about all of them.”

After the district meet ended, the Camas bowlers talked about joining leagues so they can improve and continue the fun year round.

“That absolutely warms my heart,” Chartrand said. “I hope I get to see them more often.”

Chartrand said this district tournament will be remembered for how loud it was, and the smiles on bowler’s faces.

“Just like any other sport, the number-one rule is to have fun,” she said.