Raleigh County, WV (WOAY) – Xander Jones, a local ten-year-old bowling champion, is going to Minneapolis this May to compete in the Junior Gold National Bowling Championship.
Newswatch Reporter Jonathan Schwitzerlette visited Xander’s home bowling alley, Leisure Lanes in Beckley, to see his award-winning skills in action.
Xander Jones is only 10 years old, and he’s already a better bowler than many adults. His mother, Jessica, recalls the beginning of his career:
“It all started when he was four. He came here for his birthday, actually. And it’s been taking off ever since he did the kids’ free bowling that they do every summer. You get two free games, and he took full advantage.”
Last summer, Xander won the West Virginia youth bowling championship in his division and earned his ticket to the Junior Gold National Championship this July. Now, Xander has one goal in mind:
“For Junior Gold, I wish to win.”
Beyond the trophies and awards, Xander’s bowling victories are helping him to secure a bright future.
“Any tournament you win, it goes into a Smart fund. And that’s scholarship money for college… He ultimately wants to go pro.”
The national tournament is much farther from home than the state championship, so Xander’s mom started a GoFundMe page to help pay for travel expenses.
“This year, it’s in Minneapolis, Minnesota. So, the ultimate goal is to fly there.”
From his first tournament at age five to the nationals he’s practicing for now, Xander wanted to thank his mom for having his back the whole way:
“With her support, it’s been really great.”
If you would like to support Xander’s junior gold championship journey, you can find their GoFundMe or visit Jessica Jones Facebook page.
