Overview of the European Senior Championships (ESC)
Introduction
The European Senior Championships (ESC) is a prestigious bowling tournament specifically designed for bowlers aged 50 and above. Established during the European Tenpin Bowling Federation (ETBF) Congress in 2017, the championship aims to promote and celebrate the sport among senior participants.
History
The inaugural edition of the ESC took place in 2020, following its announcement in Vienna in 2017. This championship fills a significant gap in the bowling calendar by providing senior bowlers with a competitive platform that mirrors the structure of the European Youth Championships. The creation of the ESC reflects the growing interest in bowling among older athletes and acknowledges their contributions to the sport.
Format
The ESC features a competition format similar to that of the European Youth Championships, including events in which both male and female bowlers participate. The championships include:
- Singles: Individual events for both men and women.
- Doubles: Team events pairing male and female bowlers.
- Team of Four: Teams consisting of four players competing together.
- All Events: A combined score from various events to determine overall performance.
- Masters: A knockout stage featuring top performers.
In total, the championship awards 10 titles across these categories, offering ample opportunity for recognition and competition among senior athletes.
Conclusion
The European Senior Championships represents a significant advancement for senior bowling, fostering a sense of community and competition among older bowlers. As it continues to develop, the ESC aims to inspire a lifelong love for bowling and encourage participation at all ages.
For more detailed information about the championship and its events, you can refer to the official EBF website or other related resources.