Eighty of the best women bowlers in the world are in Rohnert Park for the Sonoma County Open. If it doesn't sound familiar, there's good reason for that.
Until 12 months ago, the nationwide Professional Women's Bowling Association didn't exist, at least not since 2003.
The best of the best will face off May 7 at Rohnert Park's Double Decker Lanes, vying for a top prize of $10,000.
"Now we've got 13 events. We've got four majors. Prize funds are good,” said Damon Sarroco, PWBA director of operations. “This is fantastic for the ladies and to bring it to Rohnert Park where there is some history, they've conducted PBA events, so they know what it takes to put on a great event."
Fremont native and current Berkeley resident Emily Fagan grew up wanting to play professionally and then the tour went on a 12-year hiatus. Needless to say, she's thrilled to get a second chance at it.
"It's kind of surreal. It's actually my first WBA event and I know that a lot of these women have been looking forward to this for so long,” said professional bowler Emily Fagan. “I've been looking forward to it since my junior year of high school when it went away. So I'm a little nervous, but mostly really excited."
Fagan is similar to many of these players. Aside from her new bowling career, she has a regular full-time job. The same goes for Tim and Jacquelynn Farris -- he's a contractor, she's a district manager, and they both play professionally when they can. They've chosen to make it a family affair.
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"I mean, bowling's our life. That's my drug of choice. That's what's kept us together,” said professional bowler Tim Farris. “We've been married 13 years. This is our first born and so we work all day and we bowl all night."
And they say they wouldn't have it any other way.
"A bowling family is a happy family,” said Farris.
