Bowling in his first Grand Finale Match Play, Dave Hull won an exciting 224-205 victory over Jeff Gunn. The win was worth $1,200, compliments of Capital Beverage and Miller Lite. Gunn earned $500 for his runnerup finish.

Teenage sensation Sean Johnson opened the finale with a two-game qualifying score of 277-279 for a 556 to lead the 30-bowler field.

Hull ousted Arnold Isner in the quarterfinals, 264-222, while Gunn ended Johnson’s dream with a 216-211 decision. Rod Nething edged Justin Paliswat, 210-192 and Dave Johnson eliminated Mike Hafer, 213-194. Hull stopped Johnson, 245-215 in the semifinals, while Gunn slipped by Nething, 211-207.

The 31st annual event paid out approximately $7,500 for the year, pushing the total prize money for the history of the tournament to more than $275,000.

Chuck Fisherkeller III won $125 as leader on the Point List sponsored by Buddy Light and Chuck Ludewig Insurance. Larry Henthorn won the Arkle Costanzo Memorial Award for the bowling the most weekly events.

Helen Longwell won the Doris Westfall Performance Award for being the highest woman on the Point List. Jimmy Longwell won the Chup Robinson Sportsmanship Award, while Chuck Ludewig won the Kitty Brown Achievement Award given to the person/business most responsible for promoting the event.

Hull’s $1,200 championship check marked the 52nd time a bowler has won $1,000 or more in a tournament at Bruce Lanes.

Plans are underway for the 32nd annual tournament, slated to start in September 2009.