Oskar Kinzler
Inducted: May 24, 2025
Our first inductee was a true pioneer whose vision helped shape the future of 5 pin bowling. It is a privilege to posthumously induct this true gentleman into the C5PBA Hall of Fame, recognized in the Builder Division as an Innovator, Supplier, and National Executive.
Born in Germany in 1923, he immigrated to Canada bringing with him a spirit of invention. He standardized pin dimensions for automatic setters, developed the revolutionary blue band, and introduced the string pinsetter—technology now used in centres across the country.
Through his company, Professional Bowling Services Ltd., he helped modernize thousands of centres, working with manufacturers across Europe and North America to pioneer equipment and systems that remain foundational today.
He was inducted into the Ontario 5 Pin Bowlers’ Hall of Fame in 1992 and the Bowl Canada Hall of Fame in 2023.
Though he passed in 2002, his legacy lives on in every lane and every game. Please join me in welcoming Oskar Kinzler to the Builder’s Division in the C5PBA Hall of Fame.