Bowling in the Pennsylvania State Bowling Association's Seniors Tournament for the 20th consecutive year, Ernie Kropf of Butler finished first in an event this year for the first time.

Kropf, 79, won the all-events, Class 1 handicapped division. Class 1 is the division for bowlers age 75 and older.

Class 2 is for ages 65-74 while Class 3 is for ages 55-64.

"I've finished in the money before, but never close to the top,"Kropf said. "With the series I put together, along with the handicap total, I figured I'd be up there this time."

Kropf's handicap score was a 387. His total score was 2,103, 22 pins better than runner-up Leonard Patinsky of Southeast Pennsylvania. Only four bowlers received monetary payouts in this event.

Kropf entered the tournament with a 172 average. He averaged 191 for the nine games — singles, doubles and team — including five 200-games. He did not finish in the money in any other event.

The tournament was held at bowling houses in Lebanon and Palmyra.

"I really liked those alleys," Kropf said. "I throw a baby hook and there was a leeway of four or five boards there that let my shot go right into the pocket."

Kropf's league bowling career dates back to the 1960s. He carries a 177 average this year at Sherwood Lanes, but spent most of his bowling nights in Armstrong County over the years.

His highest single-season average was 182. His highest single game was a 279.

"I did bowl 13 straight strikes once:. seven at the end of one game and six to begin another," he said.

"I lived in the Sarver area for a long time and I've gone with the same group of guys to the seniors and (PSBA)men's tournament for years."

Dean Furlong, Mike Palermo, Ted Holben, Bud Holben and Art Bocchi have helped comprise his tournament team over the years. Kropf has competed in 29 consecutive PSBAmen's tournaments.

Kropf has rolled one 700 series in his lifetime, doing so when the PSBASeniors Tournament was hosted by Beaver Falls a few years ago.

"I'll continue bowling until I can't throw the ball anymore," he said. "I turn 80 in May, but I'm going to keep on going."