Linus Boström Leads Qualification as Storm 3rd No Urethane Open Finals Set to Begin
- Erikas Jansonas
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read
The qualification rounds of the 3rd Storm No Urethane Open concluded on Saturday evening at Lahti Bowl Center in Finland. After 20 squads and hundreds of games played, Finland’s Linus Boström led all competitors with a total pinfall of 1429, securing the top position heading into the final stages of the tournament.
The qualification format allowed players to compete in as many six-game squads as they chose, with their best series determining their place in the standings.
The top 31 players from the general standings advanced to the final steps, with additional finalists emerging from special categories including early bird squads, senior divisions (50+ and 60+), women’s squads, and an under-190-average squad. Two more players earned their places through the Desperado Squad, a one-game shootout held immediately after the final qualifying block.
Strong Performances and Tight Competition
Boström’s leading total of 1429 included a perfect 300 game during qualification. Close behind him were Petteri Salonen and Niko Oksanen, both posting series over 1390. The final cut for direct qualification landed at 1325, reflecting the depth and competitiveness of the field this year.
Among the notable stories from the qualification phase was Joonas Jähi, who not only secured his place in the finals but also won the Storm ball giveaway organized for all tournament participants. Every squad entry a player completed counted as one ticket in the random draw.
The qualification phase also saw strong participation from bowlers across Europe to take part in Finland’s unique no-urethane event.
Finals Format Set for High Stakes Bowling
The finals of the 3rd Storm No Urethane Open will feature a three-step elimination format. The top eight players from qualification automatically advance to Final Step 2, while those ranked 9th to 40th will compete in Final Step 1.
Top 8 players after the qualification:
Linus Boström – 1429
Petteri Salonen – 1407
Niko Oksanen – 1398
Rami Mukkula – 1398
Markus Lahti – 1395
Nico Kärkkäinen – 1393
Henry Laine – 1389
Nooa Vilokkinen – 1384
The tournament features a total prize fund of €40,000, with the winner receiving €8,000. Each bowler reaching the final stages is guaranteed at least €400 in prize money.
No Urethane Rule Continues to Challenge Competitors
As with previous editions of the tournament, the no-urethane rule has forced players to adapt their strategies. Only reactive bowling balls are permitted for the first shot of each frame, adding an additional tactical layer to the competition.
Finals Begin Tomorrow
With qualification now complete, attention turns to the finals, which begin on Sunday at Lahti Bowl Center. A new No Urethane Open champion will be crowned in the evening, concluding what has already been a standout event on the European bowling calendar.
