By Joseph Wenzel IV
Windsor Locks, CT (WFSB) — The “kingpin” of a Windsor Locks bowling league is making a name for herself and not just because she’s a good bowler.
Mildred Thone, of Windsor is also 100 years old.
Thone is not only an amazing bowler, but her advice on the pastime can be applied to almost anything in life. She is the star of a bowling league at Bradley Bowl in Windsor Locks, where a lot of seniors try to leave no pin standing each week.
“I’d be a better bowler if I could use a heavier ball,” Thone said. You just hit a strike! I know, very unusual!”
Thone is a mother of three girls,all in their 70s. She picked up a bowling ball for the first time when she was in her 60s and it was love at first roll.
“Once, a few years back, I did have a 228 and the manager at the time couldn’t believe it,” Thone said. “He came to see me and said, ‘when I heard your name, I couldn’t believe it.'”
Thone said she will be turning 92 in December.
Ann Dessaint of Windsor Locks is a little younger than Thone, but just as committed to the sport. In the past 14 years, she only missed a league game, once.
“Meeting people, exercise, just something to do,” Dessaint said.
“I wish more and more people, more of the senior citizens, would just get out and try it,” Merilyn Dignam, with Bradley Bowl, said. “There’s a lot of them that don’t get out and do anything but bowling is fun!”
Like a lot of seniors here, Thone credits the game with keeping her feeling young and healthy.
Thone is even good for a few pointers such as have fun and live life.
“That’s just a number, it’s how you feel,” Thone said when asked about her age. “How do you feel? I feel like I did last year!”
Bradley Bowl is signing-up summer league bowlers right now, so if you’re interested, give them a call. Thone and Dessaint both plan to be there.