Karl Spickelmier was born in Denver on October 18, 1942. He attended elementary and high schools in Lakewood, Colorado.

After graduation in 1966, from Western State College of Colorado, in Gunnison, Colorado, with a B.A. degree, he joined the Coast Guard. He was on active duty, performing search and - rescue missions.

Completing his tour of duty, he went to work in the publishing the industry for a magazine publisher, then for a national book publisher, as a book salesman in the industry for 25 years.

In 1969 Karl was introduced to the love of his life - Shuffleboard! It happened at 'The Place" in Lakewood, Colorado. The player who influenced Karl most, helping him to and enjoy the game, was to become the first inductee into the Colorado Shuffleboard Hall of Fame, Bill English.

Karl's career took him to Los Angeles in 1971, was he was a lost soul for six months, not finding a place to play shuffleboard. Then he met Ted Zariphes, otherwise known as Ted Z, who showed him the best shuffleboards in the area, for which Karl has been eternally grateful.

Between 1972 and 1980, Karl met and played against many top players, including Troy Tolbert, Billy Mays. Portland Eddie . .Graves, Billy Chiles, Jack Ahern, Vern Jones, and A.Z. Tumbo.

There were too many players for challenge play, so Round Robins became popular at the Edgewood Tavern, in 1981.

Ever seeking ways to refine and improve the game of shuffleboard Karl suggested and promoted the idea that with 12 to 14 players, the Second Place player would get his entry back, 16+ players, it would be double the entry back. His become idea became standard practice today...>>>Booklet