Base man scores league high 288, seeks perfect 300

  • Published
  • By James Baker
  • Skywrighter staff
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, OHIO -- --  Michael Mack, of the 88th Diagnostics and Therapeutics Squadron, excels in two sports that have little in common.

When looking to smash a ball more than 100 miles an hour, crashing into walls and making a kill shot on an opponent, Mack hits the racquetball court. When looking to hang out, enjoy a calmer atmosphere and not break a sweat, he heads for the base bowling alley.

The 17-year military member recently bowled a league high and personal best score of 288 at Wright-Patterson AFB's Kittyhawk Lanes. In his fourth year of league bowling, he said he is still seeking a coveted 300 game; he said he has come tantalizingly close to it on several occasions.

Mack is a participant in the Monday Night Mixed League where he bowls with co-workers from the hospital. Halfway through the season, the team stands in third place out of 20 teams because of contributions from Mack, Shiloh Fenton, Dan Davis, Monica Johnson, Billy Smith and Trish Rodgers.

Mack said a bowling year is a marathon, and he doesn't get discouraged when things aren't going well.

"It's a long season from September to April, so our team has lots of ups and downs," said Mack. "One good shot or game can turn a bad night around. The team is friendly and supportive, and we have a lot of fun."

Mack also has a great deal of triumphs on the racquetball court, claiming numerous titles the last couple years.

He said he first started playing when he first joined the Air Force and hasn't stopped since. He has played sanctioned tournaments the last five years and said he enjoys the opposition he encounters from all over.

"I enjoy the challenges I face on the court and definitely enjoy winning," said Mack.

Along with long-time playing partner, Sean Towe, the two men were crowned the 2006 over-25 State Doubles Championship at Ohio State in November.

Another past accomplishment for the two was claiming the U.S. Open Men's B Doubles Championship in Memphis.

Proving he also can go it alone, Mack finished runner-up twice in the 35A State Singles Championship in Canton and was the Men's 35 Champion at the Kentucky Senior Open in Louisville.

"I have enjoyed meeting so many different people through both racquetball and bowling," said Mack.

"In both sports, there can be intense competition, but still a great deal of camaraderie."