Couch's hometown charge is halted by first-time winner Hayden - PBA: VIA Bowling Open - bowlers Chris Hayden, Jason Couch - Brief Article

Bowling Digest, June, 2003

Chris Hayden spoiled Jason Couch's homecoming by winning the PBA VIA Bowling Open at Boardwalk Bowl. Hayden claimed his first PBA tour title and became only the second player to go undefeated (120) in the PBA's single-elimination match-play format. His 236-227 defeat of Couch earned him the top prize of $40,000. "It's such an unbelievable feeling to win a title," Hayden said. "To beat a champion like Jason for my first title makes it that much better."

Hayden and Couch were even after the 4th frame, with both players starting with a spare and three strikes. Couch took a one-pin lead after Hayden left the 4-7 in the 5th. Couch then spared and doubled in the 6th and 7th frames. After a strike in the 6th and a 7-pin spare in the 7th, Hayden struck in the 8th and 9th, while Couch left back-to-back 7-pins.

"Corner-pin leaves were a concern for every bowler this week," Couch said. "You hope to not see them in the finals, but unfortunately I didn't carry when I really needed to."

Hayden wrapped up the match with a strike in the 10th, making him the season's sixth first-time champion. He admits that he has come a long way since his rookie season (1997). "In my first year on tour, I only cashed in two of 16 tournaments," Hayden said. "So to go from that to the winner's circle is very rewarding."

VIA Bowling Open
February 16, 2003
Boardwalk Bowl, Orlando

Rank, Name                 Avg./Games         Earnings
1. Chris Hayden              250.5/2           $40,000
2. Jason Couch               242.7/3            20,000
3. Tommy Delutz Jr.           209/1             10,000
3. Paul Fleming               185/1             10,000
5. Bob Learn Jr.              209/1              9,000

                       Championship Finals
Wild Card             Couch def. Learn Jr.     278-209
Semifinal              Hayden def. Fleming     265-185
Semifinal             Couch def. Delutz Jr.    223-209
Final                   Hayden vs. Couch       236-227