Gregory L. Turner continues to excel as an extremely proficient scratch bowler and as a role model for the next generation in our sport. Gregory began his love affair with bowling in 1981 by joining the PEPCO (Potomac Electric Power Company) League at Bowl America Silver Hill. Believing in the importance of learning the fundamentals of the sport, he studied Marshall Holman’s instructional video and read Earl Anthony’s book, Learning to Bowl. He cites Gary Parsons as a valued source who contributed to his continuing education about the game and credits “Guru” with teaching him how to drill his own equipment.
Gregory rolled his first 300 game at Bowl America Kent as a member of the Thursday Mixed Doubles League in 1990. Since that time, he has scored over 50 perfect games, including four during the 2012-2013 season—two at Parkland, and one each at Crofton and AMF Capital Plaza. He rolled his first 800 series in 1995 as a member of the Eastern Majors Mixed Travel League at Greenway Bowl. He has repeated that accomplishment 11 more times, including one last season at AMF Laurel.
In addition to his superior league accomplishments, Gregory has cashed in a number of PBA regionals. He also has won numerous local senior tournaments and a few regular tournaments as well. He won the John Vargo Classic in New Jersey in 1997 and set a two-game scoring record of 598 (298, 300) the following year at the High Roller in Las Vegas. Last season, he twice won the 50 Over/Under Doubles Tournament with Chris Johnson in Chambersburg, Pa.
In the NCAUSBCA 68th Annual Open Championship Tournament (2013), his “Dream Team” finished fourth in Scratch Team, he was runner-up in Scratch Doubles with Ernest Spriggs and placed seventh in both Scratch Singles and Scratch All Events.
While Gregory has achieved a great deal of success individually as a bowler, he also has served as a true ambassador of the sport. He is the consummate team player and well-liked by his peers. He often is referred to as a “legend in his own time” and serves as a mentor for many younger bowlers. Even though he has had great success, he remains a student of the game, constantly seeking ways to improve and sharing that information with others. In recognition of his expertise and wealth of knowledge, he is a valued resource and is frequently consulted by others for his advice on equipment, technique, etc.
Since 2005, he’s been a Hammer amateur staff member, promoting Hammer products in the Greater Washington metropolitan area as well as throughout the country.
Gregory L. Turner’s unselfish dedication to the sport of bowling, his enthusiasm, knowledge, and subject matter expertise as well as his stellar individual career bring great credit upon himself and the association and make him a most qualified addition to the NCAUSBCA Hall of Fame.