Born: Jan. 13, 1957
Known for: Roseville native Steve Cook captured 15 career titles, including three major championships, on the Professional Bowlers Association tour.
Background: Cook played only baseball at Oakmont High School and didn't begin bowling seriously until age 17. He began competing in junior leagues, then adult leagues. He eventually began practicing every day at Fireside Lanes in Citrus Heights. He joined the PBA tour in 1977, earned $14,500 and was second in Rookie of the Year balloting. The 6-foot-7, 265-pound lefthander became a staple on the sport's televised Saturday broadcasts, appearing 40 times during his 15-year career. He won the 1981 Tournament of Champions, the 1983 Touring Players Championship and the 1986 BPAA U.S. Open. He earned more than $800,000 in prize money during his career. The Granite Bay resident now owns Steve Cook Bowling Supply based in Sacramento.
A highlight: Cook was elected to the PBA Hall of Fame in 1993 and the Sacramento Bowling Association's Hall of Fame in 2004. He bowled a perfect 300 game 27 times during his pro career.
In History's Spotlight profiles of Sacramento newsmakers were published originally in 2007 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of The Sacramento Bee. They were written by Anthony Sorci. Look for them every Sunday in Sac History Happenings.
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