True Amateur Tournament: 2026 A Tournament to Remember
The True Amateur Tournament (TAT) in Las Vegas continues to be one of the biggest stages for everyday bowlers to shine, and the 2026 edition delivered a storybook finish.
2026 TAT Nationals at South Point
The 2026 TAT Nationals ran from January 30 to February 8 at the South Point Bowling Plaza, drawing roughly 1,400 bowlers from across the country to compete in multiple average and age divisions. The multi‑day format featured qualifying squads, multiple finals rounds, and a progressive pot that added extra excitement to every shot.
Historic Win by 16‑Year‑Old Nolan Mori
This year’s headline story was 16‑year‑old Nolan Mori, who became the youngest champion in TAT history by winning the 2026 TAT Nationals and the $25,000 top prize. Bowling out of the 190–215 Average Division, Mori showcased elite composure in a stepladder-style final against more experienced opponents.
Final Five and Championship Drama
The Grand Finals featured five division leaders:
- Nolan Mori – 190–215 Average Division
- Matt Anderson – Scratch Division
- Benjamin Broomfield – 189–170 Handicap Division
- Michael Charles – 50 & Over Senior Division
- Steven Williams – 169 & Under Handicap Division
In the title match, Mori entered the 10th frame needing a strike to edge local Scratch standout Matt Anderson of Las Vegas—and he struck, sealing the win with 246 (236 scratch + 10 handicap) over Anderson’s 237. Anderson earned $10,000 for second, while Broomfield (221), Charles (217), and Williams (208) rounded out the top five.
Atmosphere and Turnout in Las Vegas
Between the Nationals’ large field and the multi-division structure, hundreds of bowlers advanced into the finals rounds, creating a packed and energetic environment all week at South Point. The mix of serious competition, equipment staff on-site, and the Las Vegas setting made the tournament feel like a bowling vacation as much as a championship event.