Columnist John McCarron: Pro Bowlers Tour, ABC-TV part ways after 36 years

John McCarron

Friday, June 27, 1997 | 11:16 a.m.

LAST SATURDAY'S broadcast of the Pro Bowlers Tour, which started in 1960 on ABC, was the last time it will appear on that network.

After 36 consecutive years, ABC has decided not to renew the PBA show, citing loss of revenue and priorities to other sports. What's interesting is that the PBA consistently has beaten all other weekly shows in the Saturday time spot.

But ABC claims the demographics make bowling a harder sell. The PBA still is negotiating with ABC and CBS to sponsor the winter tour. ESPN already has a portion of the summer and fall tours, so bowling still will receive air time. But it's difficult to be considered a major sport without network exposure.

Walter Ray Williams will go down in history as the last ABC champion. He defeated Pete Weber as both players closed in on $2 million in career earnings. Williams is only $2,000 away, while Weber is $15,000 short of that lofty plateau.

The match also previewed the possible bowler of the year award, as both players are having outstanding years.

On a sad note, the show might have marked the last telecast by announcer Chris Schenkel. He has promoted bowling for more than four decades and has handled play-by-play of the PBA for its entire 36-year run on ABC.

Trivia time

Who won the first ABC-TV Tournament?

Run for Hillers

Billy Hillers took home $500 in winning the Big Al's Challenge at The Orleans Sunday. John Congro and Paul Amway rolled 300 games. Other top performers in the Nevada Tournament Bowlers Alliance-sanctioned event included John Cocchi, Mark Peters, Geri Cafali, Rick Peters, Larry Rumple, Rick Peters, Larry Rumple, David Haynes, Tim Swag and Mike Haugen.

Bryce is nice

Bryce Wilson captured his first Gold Coast Shootout with a 285 ($115) to Roger Dykema 217 ($71). Taking third was last week's champion Bobby Copeland while fourth went to young lion Billy Emerson. Ray Ratsdakham had high game with a fine 288.

The Gold Coast Shootout is held every Thursday evening at 11:30, with a $25 entry fee. Call tournament director Jason Gupton at 367-4700 for details.

Mahoney's

The Mahoney's Summer Shootout went to former pro star Gary Trosen. Trosen almost lapped the field averaging over 225 ($300). Mike Clemence took second with a 210 average ($200). David Haynes finished third with a 210 average ($125). The hot hand of Tim Swag landed fourth (205, $70) while Ken Wolcott was fifth (203, $40).

The Mahoney's Summer Shootout is held every Monday at 9 p.m. with a $40 entry fee. Call tournament director Garry Griffin at 657-2750 for information.

Mary's perfect

Mary Martinez became the first women bowler to roll a 300 game at the Gold Coast. Martinez came in with a 197 average, rolling games of 188, 249, and 300 for a very fine 737 series. Congratulations and great bowling.

Coming up

Wally's 8-gamer is set for 10 a.m. Sunday at Renata's Sunset lanes. Call Wally Fellman at 736-BOWL for information. The High Roller at the Showboat and the Mini Eliminator at Sam's Town begins Sunday. The top amateurs in the world will be showcased at each event.

Trivia answer

Dick Weber was ABC's first champion.