The Storm 3rd No Urethane Open is returning to Lahti Bowl Center in Finland from April 14 to 27, 2025, and it’s already shaping up to be one of the most exciting tournaments of the year. With players from across Europe and beyond, a unique no-urethane rule, and a boosted prize pool, this event offers both serious competition and a great bowling experience.
No Urethane Rule Makes It a Unique Challenge
As the name suggests, the first shot of each frame must be thrown with a reactive bowling ball—urethane is not allowed. This rule pushes bowlers to think strategically and adjust their game to make the most out of their reactive equipment. It’s a format that rewards skill, adaptability, and smart decisions on the lanes.
Prize Pool Increased to €40,000
Thanks to new title sponsor Storm Bowling, the total prize pool has been increased to €40,000. The winner will take home €8,000, which is €2,000 more than last year. Every bowler who reaches the final stages will earn at least €400. With such strong payouts, it's no surprise that over 200 players from 14 countries have already registered. If you want to join them, don’t wait—spots are limited and filling up fast. You can register and view the squad schedule here.
Tournament Format Overview
The tournament begins with qualification squads where players can enter and re-enter as many times as they like. Each entry includes six games. There is also a one-game Desperado Squad for a last-minute shot at qualifying.
In total, 40 bowlers will qualify for the finals. The top 31 will advance from the general standings. One bowler from each of the seven special squads will also qualify, even if they don’t make the top 31. These include early bird squads, women, bowlers over 50 and 60, and bowlers with an average under 190. Two more bowlers will qualify from the Desperado Squad.
In the final steps, the top eight players from the general standing go directly to Final Step 2, while the rest start in Final Step 1. There, 32 bowlers will bowl five games from scratch, and the top 16 will move on. In Final Step 2, 24 players will bowl six games, again from scratch, and the top eight will qualify for Final Step 3. Then, the advancing players will battle it out in the round robin, with each win earning a 30-pin bonus and ties giving 15 pins.
You can find more details in the official tournament rules here.
Learn from the Best with Storm Seminars
To help players take their skills to the next level, Storm Bowling, the main sponsor of the event, is also hosting three special seminars during the tournament. These will be led by Storm’s International Technical Director, Matt McNiel, a four-time USBC Open champion.
The first seminar on April 23 will cover ball motion and how to build a versatile bowling ball arsenal. On April 24, the focus will shift to mental mastery, where McNiel will discuss pre-shot routines and mental strategies used by top professionals. The final seminar, on April 25, will explore ball mapping for both one-handed and two-handed styles.
Each seminar costs €140 and includes a Storm bowling ball of your choice—either the Storm Level or the Storm !Q Tour AI. Discounted drilling is available for €40. You can register for these seminars at www.varaavuoro.com/lahti.
Matt McNiel will also be present at the venue from April 23 to April 27 to offer help and advice to bowlers throughout the event.
Join the Action
Last year’s event attracted more than 220 participants, and this year could easily top that number. If you're looking for a competitive event with a unique format, the Storm 3rd No Urethane Open is your chance to bowl with the best. With limited spots left, now is the perfect time to lock in your place.
You can also follow the tournament on Facebook and Instagram for updates, photos, and highlights throughout the event.
Don’t miss your shot at glory in Lahti—this is the Storm 3rd No Urethane Open, and it’s unlike anything else.
