Former NFLer Darnell Bing (currently a free agent) has played with the Oakland Raiders, as well as the San Francisco 49ers, New York Jets and Detroit Lions, but our interest is in his non-gridiron related work in the community.

His 3rd Annual Bowling with the Stars event is happening on Saturday June 30th in efforts to raise money for youth with Down Syndrome.

It’s not often we come across a 6’2”, 232 pound NFL babe excited about bowling in efforts to raise awareness about how awesome kids with Down Syndrome are.

We were lucky to land an interview with Bing, who told us about his Foundation and why he wants to speak with Jamie Foxx.

Q: Why Downs Syndrome? Is there a personal connection?

“I decided to start a non-profit organization that benefits those with Down Syndrome because I have a younger cousin with the birth defect who I am really close with. We have always been close since she was born and being around her so much and knowing the type of heart she has I decided to bring the light to those with Down Syndrome.”

Q: Can you explain the significance of the name of your foundation ‘Twenty-1’ for those who may not know what it means?

“Down Syndrome is caused by an extra copy of the 21st chromosome which gives them a total of 47 chromosomes rather than the normal 46. I have chosen Twenty-1 as the name of my foundation because it represents the 21st chromosome that causes the birth defect, Down Syndrome.”

Q: Tell us a little bit about your third annual ‘Bowling with the Stars’ event? And why bowling?

“My Third Annual “Bowling with the Stars” event is going to be lots of fun. Last year we really had a ball and everything was put together in very little time. This year I have raised the bar for myself and this event and got help from other to help make this years event bigger and better than last years and we have prepped well for the challenge. I’ve decided to do bowling for the event because with bowling there is no age limit. All ages are able to participate and have fun. “

 

Q: Last year, celebrity guests included current and former NFL players from NY to California, can we expect the same again this year?

“Last year’s celebrities list definitely provided people with a wide range of sports teams from all over the NFL. This year, those who are attending can expect the same thing with a few extra athletes in attendance.”

Q: Who are the best and worst celebrity bowlers?

“I will always say that I am the best bowler hands down so let’s get to the worst bowler. LOL. My guy Troy Grant was the worst bowler last year. But to his defense, that was probably his third time ever bowling.”

Q: You recently tweeted: “Leave a loving impression on those you come across. You never know who is who and what they are willing to do for those with positive energy.” Where does your inspiration come from?

“I have a bit of Rev Run in my system lol. He gives his words of wisdom when relaxing and I provide mine when I first wake up. It helps me get my day started fresh and in a positive way. Most of my inspiration comes from life experiences. Having dealt with the vicissitudes of life have definitely installed a great deal of humbleness in me. And it’s all for the better.”

Q: Jamie Foxx, you recently learned, has a sister with Down Syndrome, if you could ask him one question-aside from asking him to attend your event- what would it be?

“With the opportunity to ask Jamie Foxx a question and only one I’d be a bit upset because I have three that popped into my head instantly. Lol. I would want to pick his brain for numerous reason. BUT, if I have one question, I’d ask him: What has been the hardest situation you’ve had to deal with regarding your sister’s birth defect? How did you overcome that situation?”

Q: Are you aware of any other celebrities or athletes with family members who have Down Syndrome?

“I am not aware of any other celebrities or athletes with a family member with Down Syndrome, but I am very interested now so I guess doing to be doing research on that now. It’s always a great thing when you can find people that truly support the cause you believe in because they have a special place for that cause within their heart as well.”

Q: And finally, if you had a theme song, what would it be?

“If I was able to have it my way, I’d have a theme song created just for me by 2pac, but since that can’t happen my theme is for now is “All Eyes On Me” by 2Pac.”

Of course, we all know what music I’m about to cue…until then, all eyes should be on Bing…check out his foundation HERE and come bowl for a cause on June 30th.

As always, thanks for reading~
delinda@athlebrities.com