Born: 1947 (Washington, D.C.)
Died: 2009 (Scranton, Pennsylvania)
Biography:
Patty Costello (May 8, 1947, Washington, D.C. – April 16, 2009, Scranton, Pennsylvania) was an American left-handed professional ten-pin bowler and former member of the Professional Women’s Bowling Association (PWBA). She was one of the best female bowlers of the 1970s and 1980s.
Born to William Joseph and Marjorie Moran Costello in Washington, D.C., Costello did not begin bowling until the age of 16, but she quickly made a name for herself in the sport, winning four titles in 1970. Her natural talent and dedication to the game propelled her to become one of the most dominant figures in women’s bowling history.
Over her bowling career, Costello earned an impressive 39 professional titles, including 25 in PWBA-WPBA events and another 14 in LPBA-LPBT events. Her major accomplishments included eight major championships. Among these, she claimed four titles in the prestigious PWBA Players Championship in 1971, 1972, 1974, and 1976. Additionally, she secured three victories at the U.S. Women’s Open in 1974, 1976, and 1980. Costello’s consistent performances and ability to excel in high-pressure situations solidified her status as one of the all-time greats in women’s bowling.
In 1976, Costello achieved a remarkable feat by winning six PWBA events, setting a record for the most titles earned in a single year. She added two more titles in LPBA events, showcasing her versatility and adaptability on different bowling circuits. Although her record for PWBA-only titles was later surpassed, her accomplishments remain legendary in the history of women’s bowling.
Costello’s success was not limited to titles alone. She was also recognized for her outstanding performances by the Bowling Writer’s Association of America, who named her Female Bowler of the Year in both 1972 and 1976. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to consistently perform at the highest level made her a respected figure among her peers and fans alike.
However, Costello’s career faced a significant setback in late 1977 when her father unexpectedly passed away while watching her provide commentary for a bowling telecast. This tragic event plunged her into a period of depression and anxiety attacks that lasted for several years. Costello candidly spoke about her struggles, stating, I was so ultrasensitive to everything around me that I could feel the hair on my arms standing straight up, and no one could comprehend that. It was an awful, lonely place to be.
Despite her challenges, Costello demonstrated immense resilience and determination. She eventually overcame her battle with depression and anxiety, returning to the bowling alley with renewed focus and drive. Between 1978 and 1981, she won seven titles, including capturing her third U.S. Women’s Open crown in 1980, a feat only achieved by one other bowler at the time. Her remarkable comeback was an inspiration to many, proving that setbacks can be overcome with perseverance and strength of spirit.
Costello’s success extended beyond her professional achievements. She won two WIBC (now USBC) Open Championship titles in the Classic Team category, in 1970 and 1972. Her contributions to the sport and her impact as a role model for aspiring women bowlers earned her a place in the United States Bowling Congress Hall of Fame, where she was inducted in 1989. Her name will forever be synonymous with excellence and achievement in the world of women’s bowling.
Patty Costello’s legacy as a pioneer and trailblazer in women’s bowling cannot be overstated. Her remarkable talent, perseverance, and dedication to her craft have cemented her status as one of the greatest female bowlers in history. Through her achievements, she has inspired generations of women to pursue their passions with determination and fearlessness, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and in women’s history.
Awards:
– Female Bowler of the Year (Bowling Writer’s Association of America) – 1972, 1976