PHIL CARRA Vicksburg, MI Phil Carra's name has been entered into the Wolverine State Horseshoe Pitching Association's "Hall of Fame"; due to his dedication and participation in making the sport of horseshoes a competitive and challenging sport. Phil started playing competitive horseshoes in 1935. At that time there was what's called "Roosevelt playground" where competitive shoes were thrown. The Kalamazoo County champion at that time was Curtis Brown. After defeating Mr. Brown six out of nine games. it was apparent to Phil this was his game. Leading Phil to be: Kalamazoo County singles champion for 1937, 1938, 1940, 1946, 1947, 1948, and doubles champion for 1935, 1941, 1948 and 1949. Highlights of his career Becoming Kalamazoo County Champion over Curtis Brown, and in the 1940 championship game against Ray Gorsline, where he pitched 50 ringers out of 58 shoes for a ring percentage of 86.2% to win the game He has won numerous tournaments corning up through the ranks to become a Class 'A' shooter. He has pitched predominately in what is known as Class A tournaments (A top shooters group throughout the state). He won the Class A senior championship with a ringer average of 66.7%. Phil pitched in the 1972 world tournament in Greenville, Ohio. The Ringer Classic in Class B he finished 2nd. Water Wonderland in 1971 Class A. He pitched an exhibition game with world champion Guy Zimmerman. 
And…Being part of establishing the Kalamazoo Area Horseshoe Club located behind the VFW, 1527 on Kilgore access road. Knowing and playing against the finest people in the world..."Horseshoe players". Last but not least, and not even dreaming of it; being elected to the state's horseshoe "Hall of Fame". We are proud to have Phil Carra as a member of the Kalamazoo and state association. Gook luck Phil ! Stay young… play horseshoes. |