Kona/IMBA Fun Raiser Nets $8,500 for Access Groups

The 7th Kona / IMBA Bowling Fun Raiser once again delivered on its annual pledge of more fun for more money with less police. This year, more than 500 of the bicycle industry’s most spirited and talented bowlers converged on the world-famous Orleans Bowling Center on the evening of October 23rd and helped raise more than $8,500 to be split between the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) and the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA).
The tournament registration fees generated more than $7,500, and the First Strike Challenge, issued by Carson Stanwood of Stanwood and Partners Public Relations and Thomas Dooley of TDA Advertising and Design, netted $1,000 for IMBA on 10 strikes. The challenge was $100 per strike on the first bowl of the night.


IMBA’s share of the money will fund the new Kona Clump grant program for groups and projects improving downhill, dirt jump and freeriding access and trail construction. NEMBA’ s share of the money was used to finalize the purchase of the land at the headwaters of the Upper Charles River, a.k.a. "Vietnam” - a favorite riding location for mountain bikers throughout New England.

Chad Grenier of 24 Hours of Adrenalin bowled a 221 for the highest individual score. Team MTBReview.com/24 Hours of Adrenalin took top team honors with a 631 total, or a 157.75 per bowler average.


“The dramatic increase in retail bike shops joining the fun was what I found most encouraging,” said Kona’s Mark Peterson. “I think this shows that the whole of the industry is starting to take access more seriously. And hey if you only have one chance to show your support a $150 donation, beer and some bowling make it all the more satisfying.”



Los Angeles-based DJ, DJ JFunk, flew in for the event and kept spirits high and non-bowlers entertained.