OLLI-HIST-2163 - New England's Quirky Sport Whose Television Ratings Topped Yaz, Bird & Orr 

Course Description

“Hang on to your tray tables, boys and girls!” was the signature call of Boston TV sports legend Don Gillis of Channel 5, letting viewers know something exciting was about to happen on the show Candlepin Bowling, a Saturday staple for 38 years on WCVB. Candlepin bowling, both the game and the show, were cultural juggernauts through the 1990s. With over 300,000 weekly viewers, Candlepin Bowling often out-rated Boston’s Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics and Patriots telecasts. Thanks to massive TV exposure, many local pro bowlers became as popular as Larry Bird and Carl Yastrzemski. Players like Stasia Czernicki and Tom Olszta were recognized everywhere and enjoyed star status throughout New England. Their stories are surprising and heartfelt, and presenter Mike Morin knew them all and shares their lives.