Feldman breaks record on way to Classic Singles lead at USBC Women’s Championships

RENO, Nev. - Michelle Feldman of Auburn, N.Y., shot the highest individual series in the 90-year history of the United States Bowling Congress Women's Championships on her way to take over the lead in Classic Singles on Friday.

Feldman, who won two Professional Bowlers Association Women's Series titles this season, became the fourth woman to reach the 800 series mark in tournament history and the second since Wednesday. Feldman rolled games of 279, 249 and 288 on her way to an 816 series, surpassing Kendra Gaines' 812 in the 2000 tournament. Robin Romeo of Newhall, Calif., shot 805 in team event Wednesday.

After struggling in team and doubles, Feldman finally found a pair to match up with her high-rev game.

"In doubles, I used every ball in my bag to try and find a reaction," said Feldman, who won Classic Singles and All-Events in 2003. "When we moved pairs, it was night and day. I was able to use my favorite ball and had a great look."

Feldman hopes to use this performance as a stepping stone into the USBC Queens, which starts Saturday at the National Bowling Stadium.

"Tomorrow will be a brand new day," said Feldman, who finished second in the 2004 Queens to Marianne DiRupo. "It depends on who you are bowling with, if you have the right ball in your hands and if you're in the right part of the lane. I'm hoping to carry the momentum from tonight to tomorrow."

Feldman, who also owns 10 Professional Women's Bowlers Association titles, added 565 in team and 533 in doubles for an all-events total of 1,914.