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2026 Petersen Classic


The Petersen Classic has long been one of bowling’s grand events. Founded in 1921 by Louis P. Petersen, the tournament now enters its 116th edition in 2026. As founder of the first local proprietors’ association and the driving force behind the largest-ever bowling event, the 1918 National Patriotic Tournament, Petersen was one of Chicago’s pioneer bowling promoters. But Petersen’s goal was to plan the richest bowling tournament in history, with a first-place payoff of $1,000.