In 1973, at 14, Balukas successfully defended her straight pool U.S. Open title, defeating runner-up Donna Ries, a psychologist from Kansas City, Missouri, with a final score of 75-72 in 42 innings and a high of 26, earning her a $2,000 purse [REF].
Balukas was not just talented at pool but was an all-around good athlete.