Jimmy Certain

Class of 1989

Jimmy Certain stands as Huntsville’s most celebrated professional bowler, a name synonymous with precision, passion, and unparalleled skill. Inducted into the Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame in 1989, his journey from a local talent to a national sensation is nothing short of extraordinary.

Born in 1939 on McKinley Avenue in Huntsville, Certain's love for bowling emerged early. By age 13, he had already made waves, winning both the singles and all-events titles at the Tennessee Men’s State Bowling Tournament. His natural talent continued to shine as he claimed back-to-back titles as the Alabama State Match Game Champion, dominating nearly every amateur competition across the state.

In 1967, Certain took his talent to the professional stage, joining the PBA Tour. His rookie year saw him finish as a runner-up to Mike Durbin for the prestigious Rookie of the Year title. Over 22 years on the PBA Tour, he consistently performed at a high level, earning several runner-up finishes and cementing his reputation as a formidable competitor.

Certain’s crowning achievement came in 1989 on the PBA Senior Tour when he captured the $13,000 first prize at the Showboat Senior Invitational in Las Vegas. He narrowly missed the top spot in two other senior events, demonstrating his enduring skill and competitiveness. Throughout his career, he achieved the elusive perfect game—bowling a 300—not once, but 13 times, a testament to his precision and mastery.

A graduate of Butler High School, Jimmy Certain's contributions to bowling extend beyond personal accolades. His journey inspired a generation of bowlers, proving that dedication and passion could lead from local lanes to national prominence. Certain's legacy remains a cornerstone of Huntsville’s rich sporting history, a true champion on and off the lanes.

This content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, based on original stories written the year of the honoree's induction by Board members and other contributors. While we strive for accuracy and quality, please note that the information provided may not be entirely error-free or up-to-date. Please contact the Hall of Fame with corrections.