Mark McNarland

Mark McNarland didn’t start bowling until he was 19 years old, taking a bowling class at Muskegon Community College.  Considering what he’s accomplished since then, it’s all the more impressive. 

Mark was truly first bitten by the “bowling bug” when his cousin, Harold Bird, shot a 300 game.  Couple that with inspiration and motivation from his parents Gordon and Ina Mae (who pushed him to be the best he can be - and still do to this day), as well as some “friendly” competition with  Mark Rudnick and Tim Winchel, and you have the makings of Hall of Fame worthy motivation.

Tournaments were what really drew Mark to bowling.  He would build himself up in for weeks leading up to tournaments, treating them as if they were very special (which they were).  As Mark said, “I love the anticipation and camaraderie of tournaments.  Every so often building it up that much leads to a let down, but not that often.”

As a result of all the build, it’s no surprise that Mark thrives in the tournament setting.  He finished ninth at the famous (or infamous, depending on who you ask) Petersen Classic in 1999, something not many people at all can lay claim to.  Other tournament wins include:  an All Star Singles Classic in Lansing and the Lake Shore Masters Tournament in Bentor Harbor (an $8,000 victory).

As for the Muskegon City Tournament, Mark has his name all over the record books.  He and Jim Fetters claimed actual doubles titles twice (2000 and 2007).  Mark took the All-Events crown twice (1991 and 2006).  He’s been a part of the actual team championship four times, and took a singles crown, as well.

When all is said and done, however, there are two moments that stand out for Mark:

- At the Michigan State Tournament, Mark shot a then-record 848 series.  Only three 10 pins kept him from   a perfect 900 series.

- Setting the Muskegon City Tournament record of 832.

Mark has bowled nineteen 300 games in his career, as well as a few 299s.  In addition, he’s thrown ten 800 series, and “about four hundred” 700 series.  He’s claimed the season high series for Muskegon twice (1993, 1997), and had the high average in Muskegon three times (1993, 1996, 1997).

Mark has absolutely earned a spot in the Greater Muskegon Bowling Hall of Fame with amazing numbers like these.  The crazy part?  He’s not done yet.

“I’m always trying to prove I still have it, that I can still compete,” he said.  “I always bowl with complete concentration.”

Welcome to the Hall, Mark!  You have most definitely earned it!