Nealey lifts Maine Heat bowlers to first place

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia – A tourney-high average of 145 by Nate Nealey of Westbrook put the Maine Heat in a first-place tie in the Coca-Cola division after the first day of the World Team Candlepin Bowling Championships at Halifax Fairlanes Tuesday.

Three-time defending champ MacLaughlin’s Truck and Trailer of Nova Scotia is tied in the 12-team division with the Maine Heat with an 8-1 record. The Heat bowlers are averaging 649 a game while MacLaughlin’s has a 638 average.

Park Place Lanes of New Hampshire is leading the Ramada Inn division with a 647 average.

John Zappi of Massachusetts and Chris Hollett of Halifax tied for the day’s high single at 177.

Round robin play continues in the tourney until Friday’s playoff rounds begin. Bowlers are competing in three three-string daily matches with semifinals and the final set for Saturday.