AUBURN - For 29 years, the annual Ole Timers' Day Tournament has been a much-anticipated highlight of the bowling season, drawing anywhere from 30 to 50 bowlers.

Tournament co-director John D'Urso said how the tournament started was a simple idea.

“It is for bowlers over 50,” D'Urso said. “When it started way back it was just to get bowlers as they turned 50 and bowlers over 50 to get them out and get them into it.”

Since its inception, the tournament has grown, now including three categories 50 to 59, 60 to 69 and over 70 with divisions for both men and women.

“At first it was just for men,” D'Urso said. “But wives were coming and they were asking why they couldn't play so we decided to change things and invite women too. It is a fun tournament. For a lot of us it is the only time of the year we all meet each other. Some of the people here I haven't seen in a year, but we get to meet here and have a good time.”

As much as the tournament is about competition and fun, it also has a more serious message, all proceeds are donated to the American Heart Association.

“Everything goes to the heart disease fund,” D'Urso said. “We have raffles and drawing for door prizes donated by local merchants and everything we make goes as a donation to the American Heart Association.”

For bowlers looking for a way to have some fun, a little competition and at the same time help contribute to a worthy charity, this tournament is ideal.

“I've been bowling in this off and on for a few years,” Bob Kreydatus said. “My grandsons like to bowl so this is a chance to bring them here and let them have some fun. It is fun, but helping the heart association is the big thing, we get to have some fun and help a good cause.”

This year 35 competitors were at Starlite Lans and out of all of them, one name stands out: Ruthie Kubat.

In 2000, Kubat was in an auto accident and lost a leg, but she has refused to let that slow her down.

“She is an inspiration,” said Jim Clark, a longtime friend. “I've known her for over 20 years. To still be bowling at her age and after all she went through with her leg, she is inspirational. I think it is a miracle myself, I really do. No matter how she does she always comes away smiling and knows she'll do better the next time.”

Kubat started competing in the Ole Timers Day Tournament five years ago, but has been bowling most of her life.

“I used to bowl in four leagues, before the accident,” Kubat said. “Now I only bowl in one and I'm glad I can. I used to be in a lot of sports, like softball, and I just always wanted to bowl so I decided I would do it.”

After her accident, Kubat was determined to keep on with the lifestyle she loves so much.

“The doctors told me if I really wanted to bowl I would,” Kubat said. “And now it is really good exercise for me.”

For Kubat, her years on the lanes have come with lots of benefits, things that bring her back.

“I've made a lot of friends,” Kubat said. “It is all about the friendships I've made and some friendly competition.”

Her dedication and determination have earned her a great deal of respect.

“If she's ever down I'm right there with a pep talk,” Clark said. “And she is there to give one right back. No matter what happens she is always smiling. I hope when I'm her age I can still do this.”

After her accident, Kubat said the tournament presented her with a plaque inscribed with words that have inspired her and stand as a testament to what the entire tournament is all about.

“It said ‘never give up',” Kubat said. “And I never intend to and God willing I will never have to.”