Athlete Spotlight: Karly Billings

By Searrah Herendeen

Athlete Spotlights highlight athletes that are competing for the first time, or are a returning competitor. We want to showcase the diverse sports community the Meijer State Games of Michigan has helped create and grown with. Today’s Athlete Spotlight features 40 year-old Karly Billings, a new competitor in the Meijer Winter State Games bowling event in Marquette.

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About karly:

Karly doesn’t have to travel far for this competition since she is from Marquette, Michigan. Her family includes her husband and two beautiful daughters, ages four and five. On top of being a full-time mom, Karly is a marketing communications specialist with the Upper Peninsula Health Plan. She acquired a bachelor’s degree in writing, and a master’s in literature and pedagogy from Northern Michigan University! When she has time, Karly enjoys attending book club, traveling with friends, and of course, bowling! For about 10 years Karly has been bowling with the Marquette County USBC. She doesn’t stop in Marquette. In Ishpeming, Michigan, Karly is the League Manager for the Friday night bowling league at River Rock Lanes.

What is a challenge you have experienced and how did you overcome it?

Karly claims, “I think one the greatest challenges that I’ve overcome is navigating a work life balance while raising two children.” Karly is a busy woman that has worked full-time since her two daughters were born. She found it critical to be a part of their extracurricular activities, while also enjoying her own hobbies. Without her support system, her husband and extended family unit, it wouldn’t have been possible.

What do you think your greatest accomplishment is so far in bowling?

Karly Billings feels that is it important to first help readers understand, “Bowling is a very challenging sport - the bowlers that are able to bowl a perfect game have taken years to perfect their craft.” The milestones that almost every bowler wants to achieve is a perfect 300 game, a 500, 600, 700, and even 800 series. Winning a bowling tournament for the 1st or 10th time is another great feat. Karly has worked on her game the fast few seasons and hit a 500 series, a career high games of 255, and a high series of 608. The people she bowls with are constantly encouraging her to get better and reach her goals.

Why were you interested in competing in the Meijer State Games of Michigan?

Everyone has their reason to enter a competition: glory, medals, their friends, or just to say they did it. Karly was ecstatic when she heard that bowling had been added to the sports line-up. She wants to compete, “To show others that this game takes a lot of skill and consistency". Don’t expect to be perfect the first time. Skills can be improved and you will get stronger. Karly thinks it is a great hobby and is always looking for more bowlers with a passion in the community. Karly’s hope is, “By participating, other community members will join and become just as excited as I am.” Whether your skills end at open bowls or are good enough for a league, Karly would love to see you join. Registration is still open at https://www.stategamesofmichigan.com/bowling-winter. On-site registration will be available.

What advice would you give to other that are wanting to start competing in bowling?

Karly is not a selfish person, and all her answers have involved the people, and community in her life. Her advice is to, “Just do it!” Her experiences in bowling have led her to the some of the best human beings she has ever had the pleasure knowing. If you do want to start bowling, this is where to begin. Karly welcomes every one that wants to pick up a bowling ball. Just like those in the community, she would be happy to give you some pointers.

The Meijer State Games of Michigan is a multi-sport, Olympic-style event(s) that welcome athletes regardless of age or ability level. The Games embody the values of participation, sportsmanship and healthy living.

Interested in Bowling?
https://www.stategamesofmichigan.com/bowling-winter

Interested in our Summer Games?
www.StateGamesofMichigan.com/summergames

Interested in our Winter Games?
www.StateGamesofMichigan.com/wintergames