The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) began recognizing it as a title event in 1998, and it was designated one of the four majors in 2000.
While the event has evolved over the years, its trademark qualifying and double-elimination match play format has remained largely unchanged.
[5] Dick Hoover, Billy Welu, Jason Belmonte and Anthony Simonsen are the only four players to successfully defend a Masters title.
[6] Mike Aulby is the first player to have won the USBC Masters three times, but was eventually passed by Jason Belmonte.
The 1984 ABC Masters featured the 43rd and final PBA Tour title for Hall of Famer Earl Anthony.
Ernie Schlegel is the oldest player to win the USBC Masters, capturing the 1996 event at age 53.