Lonny Akers has made his mark in Canadian bowling circles and deservedly so. Bowling runs deep into the Akers family, with Lonny now being a third generation into the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame with both his grandfather and father gracing these halls with their own inductions. Lonny embraced the family legacy at an early age becoming an exceptional bowler and an ambassador of the sport not just in Prince Albert but across Canada.
Lonny’s journey as a competitive bowler started before he was even five years old, spending much of his time as a youth in the local Minto Bowling alley. That early start and dedication was only the foundation for setting the stage for an extraordinary career. As a member of the Youth Bowling Council, Lonny competed in numerous provincial and national championship events. His first major victory was the Saskatchewan Winter Games. Despite it being only Lonny’s first year of eligibility and being the youngest player on his team he would help the Zone 8 team go on to winning gold. This victory early on in his career only fueled his fire and passion for the sport of bowling.
Over the years, Lonny made his mark in the bowling world with remarkable performances at provincial and national competitions. His impressive list of accomplishments includes being a member of Prince Albert’s open team for 30 years, along the way being a member of the provincial all-star team 12 times. Lonny went on to compete on a televised National stage by bowling on TSN twice but finally broke through in 2005 where bowling was on showcase on CBC Sports Saturday televised National Championships, Lonny went on to win the event, taking home a purse of $20,000. For this accomplishment Lonny would also go on to be Prince Albert’s Kinsmen athlete of the year. In 2010 Lonny would go on to win his second major title when he beat the best of the best from each province winning Masters Nationals singles championship. Lonny would later go on to secure titles on the Western Canadian Bowling Tour in 2013 winning the Regina Classic and again in 2018 coming out victorious winning the Player’s Championship in Sherwood Park, Alberta.
Lonny has earned many accolades recognizing his contributions including an induction into Riverside Community School’s Wall of Fame and receiving the Ted Akers Memorial Award for his efforts in promoting the sport of bowling. Lonny has also set records in Prince Albert by recording an average of 281 and a high 5 game block of 1736.
His impact on the sport of bowling extends well beyond his personal achievements. Lonny volunteers his time not only to help adults hone their craft but is also a mentor and coach for the youth bowlers of Prince Albert helping to nurture the next generation of talent. He has also been involved for over 10 years serving as an instructor and pro at the Saskatchewan Bowling School which draws in aspiring youth bowlers from across the country.
The future of bowling in Prince Albert looks to be in great hands with Lonny Akers’ legacy as a competitor and a mentor helping to lead the way.
