14 Facts About Billy Hardwick

William Bruce Hardwick was a right-handed ten-pin bowler and member of the Professional Bowlers Association.

Billy Hardwick joined the PBA Tour in 1961, and amassed a total of 18 PBA titles during his career.

Billy Hardwick was the first player to capture the PBA career "Triple Crown," which is achieved by winning the three original PBA major tournaments: US Open, PBA National Championship, and Tournament of Champions.

Billy Hardwick was named PBA Player of the Year in both the 1963 and 1969 seasons.

Billy Hardwick retired relatively early from the PBA Tour after developing arthritis.

Billy Hardwick was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 1977, and was the proprietor of Billy Hardwick's All-Star Lanes in Memphis.

Billy Hardwick injured the third finger of his right hand in a machine shop accident while in high school.

Billy Hardwick was unique in that he rolled a very straight ball with little side turn or hook.

Billy Hardwick rolled the ball much slower than most other players.

When Billy Hardwick is right, he can hit a half-board, consistently, 20 foot down the lane, Chris.

Hannigan credits Billy Hardwick with making him comfortable asking the tough questions to elite athletes.

Billy Hardwick married five times and had four children, two of whom died in infancy.

Billy Hardwick is the father of comedian and television personality Chris Hardwick.

Billy Hardwick was preparing to return from Sarasota, Florida to Memphis, Tennessee, with his wife Rebecca, when he suffered an apparent heart attack and died shortly afterwards.