Randy Pedersen, a 13-time PBA Tour champion and iconic bowling broadcaster, has died aged 64. Pedersen was an iconic figure in the sport, establishing himself as one of the world’s top players in a 10-year stretch from 1986 to 1995, including winning the PBA National Championship in 1986, his only major.The North Carolina native became the PBA’s 24th millionaire with his last title when he won the 2002 Pepsi Open at age 40, before he carved out a memorable career on TV.The PBA said: ‘The PBA is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Randy Pedersen, who was among the most important professional bowling figures of the past 40 years. ‘Pedersen won 13 PBA Tour titles during his Hall of Fame playing career, then transitioned to television where he became the longest-tenured broadcaster in PBA history. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and loved ones.’He joined ESPN in 2001 and was an instant hit, remaining with the network until it terminated its PBA contract in 2018. He then moved to Fox Sports with the PBA in 2019 and served as an analyst when CBS Sports Network hosted the sport. Randy Pedersen, a 13-time PBA Tour winner and bowling legend, has died at the age of 64 Pedersen covered PBA events for ESPN then Fox Sports when the sport moved to the networkHe was replaced by current PBA professional Kyle Sherman in his analyst role when the PBA’s broadcast deal with Fox ended in 2025 and the sport moved to The CW and CBS.Pedersen became known for his sense of humor and catch phrases as he tried to connect TV viewers to bowling. He once said: ‘I want to convey to the viewing public that they are watching the best bowlers in the world. It’s my job to explain what makes them that good, as well as provide other information that ‘Johnny 150 average’ doesn’t already know. ‘One thing I learned is if you can bring enthusiasm to the table, sometimes it doesn’t really matter what is coming out of your mouth. The viewing audience senses the enthusiasm.’Pedersen was elected to the PBA Hall of Fame in October 2010, and the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Hall of Fame in November 2024. Tributes have poured in after news of his passing broke. His cause of death has not yet been confirmed. Bowling writer Lucas Wiseman wrote on X: ‘RIP in an absolute legend in our sport. It was an honor to know him and spend time with him. Randy Pedersen, you will be missed by many.’ Storm Bowling wrote on Facebook: ‘The Storm family is deeply saddened by the passing of our longtime teammate and friend, Randy Pedersen.’Randy’s impact on bowling reached far beyond his accomplishments as a Hall of Fame competitor. Through his unmistakable personality, passion, humor, and years as one of the sport’s most recognizable voices, Randy helped bring bowling to life for generations of fans.’For us, though, Randy was much more than a champion or broadcaster. He was a teammate, a friend, and part of the Storm family.’We are incredibly grateful for the years, memories, laughs, and moments we were fortunate enough to share with him.’Our thoughts are with Randy’s family, friends, and the entire bowling community. We will miss you, Randy.’ Pedersen became the ‘voice of the sport’ and was known for his bowling catchphrases Eight-time PBA Tour winner Jakob Butturff died on July 31 in another tragedy in the sportBowling Life EU wrote: ‘For decades, Randy gave fans reasons to keep watching bowling on TV, first through his own performances and later from the ESPN and FOX Sports commentary booth.’He knew what it felt like to stand on the approach with a title on the line, and he brought that understanding to every broadcast. His humour, honesty and love for bowling helped a generation of viewers feel closer to the game and the people playing it.’The sport has already been hit by recent tragedy, losing one of its top players ‘suddenly’ just a few weeks ago on July 31. Eight-time PBA Tour winner Jakob Butturff died aged 32 leaving friends and rivals heartbroken.Another user online wrote: ‘First Butters and now Randy… this doesn’t even feel real… he was THE voice of this sport.’ PBA commissioner Tom Clark said when announcing Butturrf’s death: ‘Jakob was one of the most unique players in PBA history.’Fans marveled at his delivery, as he rode a wave of strikes into becoming a top player in the sport, capable of winning at any time, in any event. Jakob was kind, he was respectful, and he was a champion. ‘He will never be forgotten. Our hearts are with all Butters touched on his one-of-a-kind journey.’