Aslan's Scores (of the non-lady kind) [Archive] - Page 9

Aslan

09-09-2020, 05:26 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Third Week

509 Series: 200-167-142

Game 1 I had good carry. Be nice if I could learn how to make a spare more than 50% of the time...but a 200 is a 200.

Two missed single pins...one in the first frame and one in the 10th frame. Touched my plastic ball 4 times...had 4 open frames.

Game 3 I started to lose my line on the right lane and it looked like I needed to change balls. But, I didn't have a good option. By the time I figured out I needed to make the change, I had already opened twice. By the time I figured out what I needed to do with the Rhino Gold to hit the pocket, it was already the 10th frame. Another two missed single pins. Finally made one though...so, throw me a ******** party. :mad:

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.72 pins
Strikes: 43%
Spares: 41% picked up

Single Pin spares: 20% (1/5)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (2x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (6/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 169.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 183.00.

As much as I knew it was going to disappoint Rob, I had to relinquish left of 2nd arrow and move outside and throw up the 8-board. I just couldn't do it. The Grudge Hybrid was too much ball in practice and too weak as soon as I moved inside the track. So, I just started with the Aura Mystic and it felt good up the 8-board.

I don't know. I'm angry at the series. Another horrible performance. But, in retrospect, it was really the single-pin spare shooting that sunk that series. I could have averaged over 180 had I made 5 corner-pin spares. Instead, I missed 4 out of 5. Thats no acceptable. If I had the money, I'd be at the bowling center every evening rolling 3 games of low-ball practicing my spares until I fix this...but, I don't. At $5/game...practice can get pretty dang expensive pretty quick. There's a place nearby that has $3.50 games a few days a week...maybe I could try there.

Aslan

09-16-2020, 02:54 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Fourth Week

549 Series: 165-202-182

Game 1, more struggles. Seemed like I finally figured things out midway through, but then I opened in the 10th.

Game 2 things really seemed to start clicking. Unfortunately, a couple choice open frames kept the scoring down.

Game 3 was only one open frame away from a clean game. Unfortunately, I could only manage a few strikes.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 43%
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 183.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 190.33.

A lot of my struggles seemed to come from rushing my push away and getting my timing messed up. Once I put more concentration into my set-up and push away, the timing miraculously improved. Funny how that happens.

Aslan

09-30-2020, 03:21 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Sixth Week

547 Series: 171-202-174

Game 2 I switched to the Gold Rhino and, with the exception of a couple splits, had a pretty good game.

Game 3 I had an open in the 1st frame, 5th frame, and 10th frame.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 45%
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 6-pin, 8-pin, and 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 182.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 193.33.

Sat out last week, but picked up right where I left off two weeks ago. Spare shooting wasn't as good...but I ran some strikes together to keep the scoring high.

Aslan

10-07-2020, 12:30 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Seventh Week

586 Series: 216-191-179

Aura Mystic was carrying well...I just wasn't consistent with my shots. Only one open in the 5th when I left a 4-6-7 split.

Noticed a weak hit on the final strike shot of the 1st game, so I figured it was time to ball down...only my daughter took the garage door opener with her to horseback riding and my Rhino Gold was in the garage...which meant that I had to bring my Track 300A (16lb) with me tonight. Definitely not a one-to-one trade-off...and not a ball that I've used in a while. Had to make the best guess as to where to play the lanes with the 300A...finally settled on pretty much a straight shot at the pocket over 6-7...just a little flare at the breakpoint.

The shot worked well and the 16lb weight carried well when it hit the pocket. The downside was any miss right was essentially out of bounds...the ball was not going to help you out at all. Managed to run some strikes together...but a few open frames really put a damper on things.

Game 3 I tried to move inside as the Track 300A seemed to be creeping inside...but the angles just weren't right. I switched to the Fortera Exile...but it took a couple frames to get re-adjusted back to my normal area of lane-play. Once I did, I struck 5 out of 6 times to close things out.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.06 pins
Strikes: 57%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (2x)
Also left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, and 6-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (3/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7 and 4-6-7 split (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 195.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 198.67.

Felt good tonight. This could have easily been a 644 Series type of night had I had the Rhino Gold and not been trying to figure out how to mix in the 16lb 300A into the progression on the fly. But, things are getting better....and our team is still in first place...so I guess things are going pretty well.

Aslan

10-13-2020, 11:28 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Eighth Week

510 Series: 169-141-200

Made an adjustment mistake in Game 1 after starting out X, X, 9 /. Left an 8-pin on a pocket hit and felt like maybe I should move right. It was a mistake because I should have known that I was in a good striking position and that 8-pin was probably just out of position. Moving right just seemed to cause more problems with pulled shots and the ball going through the nose. In the 8th frame I switched to the Rhino Gold, thinking maybe I should have balled down instead of move right...but that wasn't working either.

Game 2 I struck on the first 3 shots on the left lane, but had splits on 3 of the first 4 shots on the right lane. The Rhino Gold was hooking about 3.5 boards more on the right lane and intermittent bad shots weren't helping the matter.

By Game 3, I finally had the lane differences figured out...and ignored the 8-pin leave (again in the 3rd frame). Still made enough bad shots to limit my scoring and ruin my bid for a clean game (1 frame shy).

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.66 pins
Strikes: 34%
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 6-pin and 8-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 36% (4/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 170.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 173.33.

Bad adjustments and sub-par shot making. Spare shooting wasn't terrible. The lanes were a bit tougher tonight...one side playing differently than the other; more so than usual. Fortunately, the team keeps chugging along. 4 more points (of 4) and we're still on top of the league standings. Been awhile since I've had the target on my back.

Aslan

10-21-2020, 01:06 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Ninth Week

597 Series: 193-190-196

Was actually able to use the Grudge Hybrid in Game 1 (for a change). Usually the lanes are too dry and I have to start with the Aura Mystic. A missed 10-pin in the 8th away from a clean game...but couldn't run more than a double together: X, X, 9 /, 9 /, X, 8 /, 8 /, 9 -, X, 9 / 9.

Started out stronger in Game 2...but made a series of pootastic shots mid-game to ruin things. Still salvaged a 190.

Felt good rocking the Fortera Exile in Game 3, but had a serious Dutch 200 thing going on through 6 frames before failing to convert a 5-10 split in the 7th and then leaving a 7-pin in the 8th. Struck out in the 10th...so it would have been more like a "Dutch 210" anyways.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.97 pins
Strikes: 41%
Spares: 78% picked up

Single Pin spares: 88% (8/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 5-pin, nor 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 193.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 197.00.

Our anchor also shot an opening 193 game and a 579 series...and he's a 200+ average bowler in the state bowling hall of fame. He had the same issues I did, difficulty running strikes together. I'm not sure why. Maybe the pair was just different enough given the lines we were on...or the maybe other bowlers were playing on or around the lines we were playing...some combination that just made it work out that way.

But, I don't mind a 550+, consistent night. Would have been nice to get a clean game out of the mix; sure. But, I opened 4 times...one of those was on a split....only one of those was on a corner pin. I'll take that.

Our team is STILL in 1st place heading into position round against a team that is SUPER ANNOYING. They are that type of team that gets really, really, really aggravated when they lose and thinks they would be rolling 700 series every time they bowl...so I anticipate a LONG night a week from now...but...thats what happens when you're in the top spot. And we're the only team with a cushion. Every other team (23-team league) has a team 1 point behind them...we are about 6-7 points ahead of the 2nd place team.

Blacksox1

10-21-2020, 09:52 PM

Good steady scoring Aslan. Thumbs up.

boatman37

10-21-2020, 11:15 PM

Very consistent!

Aslan

10-28-2020, 12:55 AM

Very consistent!

Good steady scoring Aslan. Thumbs up.

Maybe not so much tonight. :(

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Tenth Week: (Position Round)

532 Series: 172-148-212 (clean)

Yet another night where I seemed to have trouble striking on one lane of the pair: 9 /, X, 8 1, X, 7 -, X, 7 /, X, 7 /, X 8 /.

Game 2 I made some bad shots and lost my line midway through the game. Four open frames...3 of which were consecutive...weren't conducive to high scoring.

Finally ran into too much traffic on the lane and needed to ball down to Fortera Exile. It wasn't easy, had to pick up a couple splits to make it happen, but I managed my first clean game in quite some time.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.76 pins
Strikes: 36%
Spares: 65% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (4/6)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, and 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 64% (9/14)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10, 3-10 split, and 1-2-4 (2x each).

Splits: 60% (4/6)

Average over 3 games: 177.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 180.33.

Took 4 out of 4 points, so it looks like we furthered our lead over the rest of the field.

J Anderson

10-28-2020, 07:48 AM

Aslan

11-04-2020, 01:24 AM

I haven’t done the math but I suspect that it’s better, at least as far as scoring, to have all your opens together rather than intersperse them amongst strikes and spares. Mentally though, it sucks.

That may be true. A 'glass is half full' vs 'glass is half empty' approach I suppose.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Eleventh Week

621 Series: 183-236 (clean)-202

Tried to start out with the Grudge Hybrid; but once again couldn't find a decent line and had to very soon switch to the Aura Mystic. I was so confused by what I was seeing that I even tried to throw the Rhino Gold late in the game and that failed miserably. 6 /, X, 7 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 -, X, 9 /, X, 7 / 7.

By Game 2 it was clear that Aura Mystic was working well on the left lane and right lane...I just needed to add a little length to my shot on the right lane my adjusting by vertical target. That strategy led to a 4-bagger before making a bad shot. I finally had to make some small adjustments by the 7th and 8th frames, but I kept things clean and struck out in the 10th for my best game of the season thus far. X, X, X, X, 8 /, X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, X X X.

Continued to strike four more times into Game 3 before realizing that maybe another ball change was in order. Switched to the Fortera Exile...but needed to make a slight adjustment...and by the time I did...Game 3 was about over. X, X, X, X, 8 1, 9 /, 7 2, 8 /, X, 9 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.09 pins
Strikes: 50%
Spares: 81% picked up

Single Pin spares: 88% (4/6)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, and 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 207.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 211.00.

Another 4 out of 4 point night...our team furthers our 1st place position. I have my best series this season, my highest game thus far this season, I win two high game $5 team pots, my average gets back into the 180s, only 3 opens, and I get another clean game. My spare shooting was decent. My ball change choices were sub-par...I usually do better with ball change decision-making. But, still a good night.

Timmyb

11-04-2020, 06:12 PM

Kicked my ***.

Blacksox1

11-04-2020, 09:57 PM

Nice series and stats Aslan.

Aslan

11-08-2020, 05:00 PM

Weekend Charity Tournament: THS

577 Series: 159-172-246

Started off well, but opened on a couple splits and then opened on a couple single pins...and that REALLY got in my head. 9 /, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, X, 7 1, 7 -, 9 -, 9 -.

Game 2 very similar, started off well, then another couple missed single pins and had trouble mentally recovering. X, X, X, 9 -, 9 -, 7 /, - 9, X, 8 /, X - 7.

Game 3 I got out the Fortera Exile, which is the ball I have the most confidence in. Put together a 5-bagger before slightly pulling a shot and leaving a 6-pin. Put another few strikes together before leaving another 6-pin in the 10th....which I barely missed...of course.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.71 pins
Strikes: 51% (1 5-bagger, 2 turkeys, 1 double, and 3 singles)
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 6-pin and 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (2/6)
Most common multi-pin leaves: full rack (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2).

Average over 3 games: 192.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 209.67.

Once again struggled to use the Grudge Hybrid on the fresh. Had to move to the Aura Mystic sooner than I wanted to. Had to jump outside and try the Rhino Gold in Game 2...even though I really didn't want to do that...but I just couldn't get my ball to retain enough energy at my approximately 15mph ball speed....with about 4 other bowlers trying to play the same line.

Getting to Game 3, moving to the Exile, which I had just polished up...and moving a little inside and letting the ball's powerful core do the work...seemed to get me left of the other bowlers that were stuck in the same burnt up track...and gave me a ton of movement downline. Didn't make great shots...a couple weak strikes...a couple Brooklyns...but I was a couple frames away from the front 10 and possibly my 2nd ever non-sanctioned 300.

The mental game needs to improve. Once I miss a single-pin...I can't allow my single-pin shooting % to go from 81% to 41%. And most of them weren't even close.

Aslan

11-11-2020, 08:49 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 12

593 Series: 201-169-223 (clean)

Game 1 was average. Got to use the Grudge Hybrid (for a change)...so that was nice. A couple bad shots left me with some tough spares that resulted in two opens. And, when you can only manage doubles, a 201 is all you get: X, X, 8 -, 8 1, X, X, 9 /, X, X, 9 / X.

Took the Aura Mystic out on the last shot of Game 1 and decided to use it for Game 2...but was having a little trouble carrying. So, given my success Sunday with the Fortera Exile...I jumped the gun and moved to the Exile early (frame 5). That led to significant misses right...which meant I either had to abandon the Exile and go to Plan B: get out the Rhino Gold and make a jump right of the track...or I needed to move right with the Exile...which I never usually do.Usually, once the Exile comes out...it's late in the series and I'm essentially "dropping the hammer". So, I decide to stick with the Exile...make my adjustments...which takes about 4 frames to move right and then fine tune left...before striking out for the 169.

Game 3 was just a matter of trying to make good shots while dealing with a knee that was telling me, "Seriously...if you get any lower than you did on that last shot...you're not getting up." But, once again...while the rest of my teammates whined and cried about not being able to deal with the conditions and not being able to carry...I took high game with the Exile: X, X, 9 /, 7 /, X, 7 /, X, X, X, 9 / 8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 52%
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (4/4)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 197.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a.

Normally you don't see a bold red game, no green or bold green games, and not see a red or bold red series...but the series was 'just' decent enough (when compared to last week) not to warrant a red rating.

But, won $10 in the card game and $10 in high game...and most importantly...we took 3 out of 4 points from the 2nd place team...securing our dominance over the league...at least 9 points ahead of the nearest team by next week.

I remembered something from my coaching about staying down in my stance...and that seemed to help last week and tonight. Unfortunately, my knee is not cooperating. Between a raging case of plantar fasciitis and a knee that nearly gives out if I bend too far and hold the position too long...I'm not sure how long I can keep going before I have to make a doctor's appointment. And, a doctor's appointment likely puts me on the shelf. Last time I had plantar fasciitis, the "cure" from the doctor was 1-3 months rest. And the knee is even more complicated. If I can't lose weight...which has been a losing battle over the last 3 years...they'll be reluctant to do surgery on the knee. I'm not heavy enough to do any kind of surgery to lose the weight. So that just leads to an endless physical therapy which does absolutely nothing except drain money from my bank account and make the rest of my body feel just as carpy as my knee and foot.

Aslan

12-17-2020, 01:51 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 13

437 Series: 136-164-137

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 7.70 pins
Strikes: 33%
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 3-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 26% (4/15)
Most common multi-pin leave: full rack (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/6)

Average over 3 games: 145.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 149.67.

Not much can said that isn't said with the stats.

- We were shut down for a month due to Covid restrictions...so just when I was finding my game..."bamm"...back to square 1.
- We had to wear masks while we bowled. Not a big deal except I usually wear glasses while I bowl and can't wear glasses with my mask or they fog up...so that didn't help.
- In addition, my glasses that I had with me...that I use for reading, entering stuff into pinpal, taking notes, etc... Well, the frames broke. So, no reading glasses either.
- And, my slide foot continues to hurt like hell(o).

But, those are all just excuses. I threw it in the gutter on the 1st ball on 3 shots. I was trying to play about 6-7...and I just wasn't throwing "up and in" enough. If my shoulders weren't squared up when I released...it would be a gutter or so wide that I'd leave some washout or some other must-pin nonsense. Then I'd over-correct and pull the shot through the nose...whammo...6 splits on the night. Couldn't win.

J Anderson

12-17-2020, 11:21 AM

Aslan

12-23-2020, 09:32 AM

Yeah, you know it’s a bad night when you leave as many full racks as you do the ten pin.��
Sorry about your lack of execution but glad to know you’re otherwise okay. I was beginning to worry that something had happened.
No...just Round 2 of Covid shutdowns.

As for the glasses fogging, as long as you don’t have sensitive skin, you can use masking tape to seal the top edge of the mask to your cheeks. I’ve even heard that some bowlers have even used various types of bowling tape to do this.
One thing I've done in hockey and in paintball is apply a layer of soapy liquid or Rain X or an anti-fog spray to the glasses. It works pretty well in far more humid, "fog/condensation" producing environments than I would encounter bowling. It clouds the vision slightly, but not much.

I got used to not wearing the glasses this week. Fortunately I had both eyes done (cataract surgery) a year or so ago which has made my vision decent for distance. Had I not had that surgery, I'd have to wear the glasses or the arrows would be blurry. I ended up taking the mask off for a few shots in game 3 just because it was hurting the back of my ears wearing it the whole night. One of our bowlers wasn't wearing one and most of the guys just had them "on"...not really covering their nose and mouth anyways...so its not like the center was really enforcing it. Hard to sell drinks and also enforce a mask mandate.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 14

633 Series: 251-213-169

Game 1 I left a 6-10 on a pulled shot in the 4th...and missed it badly. Ran 6 strikes together before filling the 10th with a 7 /.

Game 2 I was pretty dialed in...just a couple bad shots here and there. Unfortunately both bad shots resulted in splits. I picked up the 3-10 baby split in the 3rd, but completely whiffed the 4-6-7 split in the 7th. Switched to the Fortera Exile in the 9th. Pulled a shot horribly in the 10th to finish with a 6 / 8.

Game 3 the lanes started to really transition faster than they were previously. I think I had transitioned left enough that I was now moving into areas where some of the other bowlers had already played. So, it was an almost constant adjustments left every 1-2 frames...usually after a shot that didn't result in a strike. X, 8 -, X, 9 -, 9 -, X, X, 9 -, X, X, 9 /.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.33 pins
Strikes: 66%
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 25% (1/4)
Most common single-pin leaves: 7-pin (2x)
Also left a single 2-pin and 5-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 211.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 222.33.

Night and day from last week:

- Strike rate: Doubled 33% to 66%
- Multiple Pin Spares down from 15 to 6.
- Splits down from 6 to 2 and I actually picked one of the two up.
- Average over 3 games up over 65 pins. Had I picked up all my single-pins, it would have been up over 70 pins.

Was it all positive? No...not by a long shot.

- The team, while still in 1st place by a good margin, lost 3 out of 4 points.
- I had a shot of outscoring a PBA50 bowler on the opposing team with my first game...but its hard to beat the pros when you gutter on a 6-10 in the 4th. I think he finished with a 264 or 267.
- No clean games. Can't fault myself much in Game 2...only open was a 4-6-7 split...which I don't know if I've ever picked up. But Games 1 and 3...those were all VERY makeable spares that were missed.
- Single-pin spare shooting. It "seemed" worse than it was. Missing the 6-10, a 4-7, a 2-pin, and a couple 7-pins...doesn't sound like much...but it "seemed" like I missed 700 7-pins and 200 10-pins. In my mind...it was an epic tragedy. And I was "pooing the bed" in front of a team of very high level bowlers which only added to the embarassment. It was like rolling a 99-game on TV.

I usually bowl my best when I face the best competition. This team we faced is SO good, they started the year with -1 handicap. I think they currently have 8 pins of handicap. Their averages are 212, 208, 215, 225, and 231. Their anchor is a PBA50 pro who currently has the only 300 this year. Their 4th bowler holds the high scratch series this season with a 782. Their team has the high scratch game of 1200 and high scratch series of 3362. Compare that to our team's season best scratch game of 1077 and best series of 3113. This team would actually have to bowl UNDER their average to bowl our best game of the season. Thats very demotivational when you think about it.

BUT...I looked over my notes...I focused on my technique from set-up through delivery to posting the shot. I put the mechanics back where they needed to be and things fell back in order. I don't know why my corner-pin spare shot alignment was so BADLY off last night...where I was throwing it in the gutter well short of the target...but thank God it was a night I had good carry.

J Anderson

12-23-2020, 11:17 AM

Timmyb

12-23-2020, 08:23 PM

As for the glasses fogging, as long as you don’t have sensitive skin, you can use masking tape to seal the top edge of the mask to your cheeks. I’ve even heard that some bowlers have even used various types of bowling tape to do this.

I've been doing pretty well with the regular paper masks. As long as I keep my head up, Not too much of an issue. When I tip my head down to set my foot, I just tip up and wait a few extra second for the fog to clear.

boatman37

12-23-2020, 08:26 PM

Yeah those guys with PBA experience, even if they only do regionals, are tough. Thank goodness Tim G. took a job out in Michigan. A number of times I was bowling against him in the local sport league and was ahead through most of the game and he would finish with 4 or 5 in a row. I felt sort of like a mouse being played with by a cat, main difference being I didn’t literally wind up being eaten, more like he took my lunch money.

Funny non-related story. Back in the early to mid 90's I owned a bar and played a bit of pool. I was decent but not great. An old man came in looking for the owner. I told him that was me and he asked if I wanted to play a few games cause he heard I was pretty good??? What? I was slightly above average at the time, certainly not someone you'd be trying to hustle. So I said sure. He opens the door and motions for some younger guy to come in. He asks if $5 a game is ok. I say sure. I win the first game. He ups it to $10 a game. Sure. I win again. He asks about $20. Sure. I win again. I know what his game is. He asks about $50. I told him I had to get back to work and maybe some other time....lol

Blacksox1

12-23-2020, 10:20 PM

Nice bowling on Tuesday Aslan.

Aslan

01-06-2021, 12:49 AM

We missed last week due to a blizzard...but we're back in action!!

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 15

585 Series: 186-155-244

Game 1 I struggled to get my swing and timing back...mainly leaving spares...but picking them up. In the 5th frame I set off the foul light. I can't remember the last time I had done that. So, the next time I got on that lane, I was cautious...and AGAIN...set off the foul light! I was absolutely adament that I did not cross that line the second time. I didn't think I was even CLOSE. So, the other team agreed to let me complete the frame and give me a 6 - on the last Foul (rather than the - - I had bowled). I finished strong and struck out in the 10th. to salvage the 186.

Game 2 was one of the biggest disasters in recent memory. Started off with a 6-7-10 split. Then..I FOULED AGAIN! But, this time I definitely fouled! Something was wrong with the lane and my heel wasn't braking me on my slide. So, now I felt like garbage because the other team essentially gave me about 6-18 pins in the previous game under the assumption that the foul light was malfunctioning. Now it turns out, maybe I DID foul those other two times. To make matters WORSE...I only had one other open...in the 5th frame. I left a 3-9 sleeper and as I released the ball...noticed the sweep was stuck down. BANG!...right into the sweep. Of course...that shot would have picked up the spare. I attempted another shot and missed badly...of course.

First shot of Game 3 I struck, but it looked like maybe it was time for a ball change to the Fortera Exile. From there I went X, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, 8 1, X X 9.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.49 pins
Strikes: 48%
Spares: 70% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (4/4)
Most common single-pin leaves: n/a

Multiple Pin spares: 61% (8/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-5 and 3-9 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 195.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a.

Just a real crazy night. I can't remember the last time I "Fouled"...and tonight I fouled THREE times! And then to throw the ball and hit the sweep arm...which I thought had moved out of the way...but apparently had gotten stuck down. Just a real rough night. It's been a rough season with the intermittent Covid shutdowns and now a week skipped due to bad weather. It's hard to keep your timing and overall game at a high level with these intermittent gaps.

boomer

01-06-2021, 11:30 AM

missing bowling for a BLIZZARD? How mundane! :)

btw - as a northerner living in Southern California. . . sssnnnnooooowwwwww. I miss snow

Aslan

01-13-2021, 08:53 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 16

466 Series: 158-126-182

Game 1 I decided to stick it out with the Grudge Hybrid and play a more inside line. The 'problem' is...I couldn't get right of the head-pin. Every shot left a 4-pin or 4-9 or went through the nose. And, my spare shooting was horrid...so by the end of of Game 1, I was about 6-7 boards with my eyes and 9-10 boards with my feet left of where I would normally play the lanes...and I STILL wasn't hitting the pocket.

FINALLY...frame 2 of Game 2 I found the pocket. Of course...I wasn't carrying playing that deep...AND I was still in an area where 2-3 players from the other team were playing and probably had burned in a line...so I figured I'd drop down to the Aura Mystic. I had to move 1:2 right...which I expected given how deep I was AND given I just re-did the surface on the Mystic...so it was pretty shiny. But, being that deep...I don't have any miss room. Every shot has to be perfect...has to hit perfect. The slightest release variance or miss and I won't strike. And, again, my spare shooting was horrible.

Game 3 started out great. I had switched to the Fortera Exile in the last frames of Game 2...so I had the ball in my hand I threw the best. Started out X, X, 9 /, X, 9 /, 9 /, X, 8 -, X before pulling a shot in the 10th and leaving a 3-pin...then pulling that shot and slightly missing it to the left...for a disappointing 182.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.75 pins
Strikes: 31%
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (4/4)
Most common single-pin leaves: 4-pin (3x)

Multiple Pin spares: 36% (4/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 40% (2/5)

Average over 3 games: 155.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 171.33.

missing bowling for a BLIZZARD? How mundane! :)

btw - as a northerner living in Southern California. . . sssnnnnooooowwwwww. I miss snow

What I miss about California is:

1. Coaching: Being able to see my coach twice a month where she'd say, "How's your bowling been going?" and I could tell her the struggles I had been dealing with and she could watch me and make corrections...usually little things that were easily noticeable to her trained eye...but would make a world of difference.

2. Practice: I miss living next door to a bowling center...where I could go and bowl 24 hours a day...for $2.50/game...and work on whatever I needed to work on. Not to mention the Saturday night tournament they ran every Saturday which was more of a "fun color-pin" tournament where I could get practice in.

3. Time: I miss being semi-retired where I could bowl in 2 leagues and sub in 2 others. The only thing limiting my bowling was the fact that if I bowled any more than that I wouldn't have time for any other activities and my knee would fall apart.

Now...I bowl once a week in one league. I have neither the time nor money for practice. Even if I could talk one of the local pros into coaching me...I don't have the time nor money to sink into that right now. Much less, I'm hopefully going to be getting a new job and moving sometime this year. I got teammates that don't don't know much of anything about adjustments or ball technology offering to lend my DVDs to help me with my fundamentals...when they can't tell you why they throw the ball they throw...where they throw it...or what in my "fundamentals" is causing an issue. I ball down to the Mystic due to oil breakdown and the teammate looks at the ball and says, "Oh, okay, yeah...pin down...thats a better choice." Pin down doesn't even matter!! It's literally one of the least important aspects of ball dynamics...proven by the USBC! Not to mention, he's not taking into account that the Mystic is far weaker than the ball I just put back in my bag...due to about 5-7 other ball-specific factors that have nothing to do with drilling!

The same guy that is telling me this...in Game 3...went 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 7 /, 9 /, 8 1, 9 /, X, 9 /, 9/9. And the strike went through the nose! It was clear he was using the wrong ball...but he wasn't going to get off that line...he wasn't going to change the way he was throwing it...and his understanding of ball dynamics was limited to what he learned working in a pro shop for a couple years drilling balls. My whole team is like this. They all have been bowling forever...they stay on the same 5-7 board area...and have 2-3 balls that they randomly switch to based on whether they are striking. They can't explain anything. They just DO it...because they've always done it that way. Their only coaching ability is to say..."here, watch me...do it like this." Oh, roll the ball up 2nd arrow? I never thought of that!!

Today I hate bowling SO much.

boomer

01-13-2021, 11:55 AM

I hear ya

BTW - bowling for $2.50 a game? Wish I could find a center where I could do that. Heck - right now, I just wish I could find a center where I can BOWL. :(

But you still get armchair experts here. I average 50 pins more than a certain guy but he still wants to give me advice . . . LOL

Aslan

01-20-2021, 12:16 AM

I hear ya

BTW - bowling for $2.50 a game? Wish I could find a center where I could do that. Heck - right now, I just wish I could find a center where I can BOWL. :(

I can find plenty of places to bowl, but the prices have gone up considerably:

My best bet is a small, wood lane center not too far away that does $3.50/game on Tues/Wed/Thurs...but only between 10:00AM and 4:00PM.

The local center is $4.25/game + tax, Mon-Thurs noon-6PM.

There's a center that is a bit of drive that is $5.80/game Mon-Fri, noon-5:30PM. They have specials 9:30PM to midnight where you can bowl for $2.50...but it'd be bowling in the dark on burnt up lanes.

The best place to practice is the best center in the area; they have $2.50 games 11:00AM -4:00PM Mon-Fri. BUT, they are on the other side of Des Moines...a good 30 minute drive.

The place I bowl leagues is even further away...and it's $21.99/hour for a lane. They have $2/game bowling on Tuesday nights for league bowlers...but its literally for an hour after our league ends on burnt conditions.

The best bet on a weekend...given I have a job...is the wood lanes center that has $4/game rates all weekend long. It's not $2.50...but it's the best rate I can get on a weekend. And, maybe I can develop a relationship with the staff there and get a practice time where I have something that resembles fresh oil rather than burnt conditions from the night before.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 17

647 Series: 211-241 (clean)-195

Quickly switched to the Aura Mystic in Game 1. Wasn't gonna make the same mistake as last week trying to force the Grudge Hybrid on lanes that just don't seem to have enough oil on them. Took me 2-6 frames to get adjusted and to stop missing right of my target...but once I got dialed in, it was smooth sailing:
8 /, X, 9 /, X, 6 -, 7 /, 9 /, X, X, X X X.

Continued to have trouble missing right at the beginning of Game 2, and decided to switch to the Fortera Exile after a weak pocket hit in the 5th frame. The ball change seemed to work: 8 /, 6 /, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, X, X 8 -.

Things started transitioning a bit faster in Game 3. I probably should have made bigger moves left...but I was timid; trying not to move too far left, too fast. That just left me hitting weak constantly. I had things figured out by the 6th frame and was playing a much more open line than usual. The Exile is my best ball...and I trust it to come back. Granted, on the 2nd shot in the 10th I made a terrible shot and tossed it in the gutter...which was embarrassing...but, the team had the 3 points well in hand at that point so the only damage was to my pride.
9 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, 7 2, X, 9 /, X, X, X - /.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 55%
Spares: 80% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (7/7)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x)

Multiple Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 215.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a

Obviously, a huge improvement over last week. Actually, my best performance of the season. And, it was against one of the better teams. It wasn't perfect...I made some bad shots. But, I made my makable spares and I was around the pocket all night. This is what I should be bowling like given the work I've put into the game. This is why its so frustrating when I go out and throw a 155 or 126 game and can't seem to make even 50% of my single-pin spares. Because I KNOW I am capable of doing better...I just can't figure out what I'm doing wrong.

One difference tonight, aside from playing up to the competition, is that I remembered to increase my foot speed as I approached the foul line. I had been working on getting lower...gradually...keeping my slide leg on the ground...but increasing my footwork and speed in my final 3 steps. I had forgotten that until recently. Just one of those many "little things" that makes a world of difference in the timing/approach combination.

Continuing to like the Fortera Exile. I can't see why so many people spoke negatively of it. The ball is smooth down the lane and just hooks nicely into the pocket with very nice carry. Doesn't seem nearly as "jumpy" as the Melee Jab was. Kind've reminds me of my Scandal Pearl or my Loaded Revolver. Sort of like a poor man's Reaxx Pearl. Smoother than the Reaxx Pearl and more controllable...but maybe not as strong or powerful into the pocket.

Team took 3 out of 4...remain easily in 1st place.

Timmyb

01-20-2021, 07:52 PM

Nice 647!

Aslan

01-27-2021, 08:28 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 18

561 Series: 151-163-247 (clean)

Struggled to carry in Game 1 with the Aura Mystic. Just seemed like the ball didn't have energy when it hit the pocket. I'd leave 4-pin and/or 9-pin leaves...move a little left...and hit weak. The result was telling me the lanes were drier than usual and the Aura Mystic was losing energy. The problem was...I was reluctant to switch to the Fortera Exile in Game 1...and reluctant to switch to the Rhino Gold. Playing scared.

Game 2 I finally switched to the Rhino Gold. Not a ball I usually use...but the lanes just seemed drier than usual and I didn't want to move to the Fortera Exile early in Game 2. The problem with the move to the Rhino Gold was execution. Too many misses well right with a ball that just isn't going to come back strong...and paying the maximum penalty when I did make a bad shot...in terms of washouts and splits. Finally, in frame 7 I left a 6-pin on a pocket hit...after striking with that same shot in the 5th...and decided it was time to bring out the closer. Once the Fortera Exile showed up: X, 8 /, X X X.

Started off with a 7-pin leave...which I wasn't sure if that was a sign I might need to move or just a bad rack. Then a nice shot in the 2nd and left a single 9-pin. But, I made a 1:1 move left on both lanes and it was smooth sailing until a bad shot in the 8th went well right of target.
9 /, 9 /, X, X, X, X, X, 9 /, X, X 9 /.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 42%
Spares: 68% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (10/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin, 4-pin, 9-pin, 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 6-pin and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (3/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-6-7 split (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 187.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a

Certainly a disappointment in that it took the better part of 2 games to figure things out. But, I gotta look at things "bigger picture":

1. In the last 5 weeks; I was over my average 4 out of 5 of those weeks.

2. I've thrown a 240+ game 4 out of the last 5 weeks.

3. In the last 5 weeks, I'm 26 for 34 (76%) on single-pin spares...but in 3 of the 5 weeks...I was 21 for 21 (100%).

4. Our team hasn't been as dominant lately...BUT...we are still in 1st place and we've still yet to be swept by any team this season. We're still at LEAST 8 points ahead of the nearest team. And, we've been in 1st place the entire season.

Aslan

02-03-2021, 08:49 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 19

593 Series: 189-193-211

Grudge Hybrid looked great in practice...5 strikes on 5 shots. But, first 5 shots in Game 1 were X, 9 /, 8 /, 9 /, 7 1. Looked like once again I wasn't going to be able to use it and switched to the Aura Mystic. Went X, X, X, 9 - before realizing even the Aura Mystic seemed to be struggling to carry...so I went with the Vintage Gold Rhino in the 10 and closed things out with a X 7 /.

Game 2 I used the Vintage Gold Rhino for the first 9 frames going 9 /, X, X, 6 2, X, 9 /, 7 -, X, X before switching to the Fortera Exile and finishing with a X 7 /.

Started off Game 3 with a split before finding my groove. The lane seemed to breakdown a bit late, forcing me in to 11-13 and I couldn't carry the way I usually can further outside.
7 2, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, 9 /, 6 /, 8 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.97 pins
Strikes: 51%
Spares: 68% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 6-pin and 5-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 197.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 201.67.

I can always "nit pick"...but if you break it down...two of my opens were splits and two were washouts...the other was a 5-pin that I pulled my shot and 'tapped' the pin but the pin didn't fall over. As I stated last week; "big picture":

1. In the last 6 weeks; I was over my average 5 out of 6 of those weeks.

2. This may not be my best performance, but it's probably the 2nd most consistent performance I've had this season behind 10/20 when I almost shot a triplicate (193/190/196).

3. In the last 5 weeks, I'm 32 for 41 (78%) on single-pin spares...but in 4 of the 6 weeks...I was 27 for 28 (96%).

4. Our team hasn't been as dominant lately...BUT...we are still in 1st place and we've still yet to be swept by any team this season. We're still at LEAST 8 points ahead of the nearest team. And, we've been in 1st place the entire season.

5. My average is now up to a season high of 184.

Aslan

02-10-2021, 01:10 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 20 Position Round

558 Series: 234-169-155

8 /, X, X, X, X, 8 /, 9 -, 8 /, X, X X 8. I was able to move a little inside with my feet and use the Grudge Hybrid. Only open was on a single 3-pin that I missed because I wasn't wearing my glasses (Covid mask) and thought it was a 5-pin.

Game 2 I tried to stick it out with the Grudge Hybrid, but it was clear that I was hitting weak...at least on the right lane....so I switched to the Aura Mystic with the new surface (240/800/2000/R. Compound) I added to it this afternoon. 7 /, X, 6 3, X, 8 -, 9 /, X, X, 7 /, 9 -. Surprisingly, even though I was playing deeper than usual, I made good shots on the left lane...but left a 7-pin in the 10th and guttered trying to pick it up. Can't do that in the 10th. Right lane was a struggle due to some bad shots early and transition late.

X, X, 8 /, X, 6 2, 9 /, 7 /, 8 1, 8 -, 9 -.
Game 3 wasn't as bad as the score indicates. Struck a couple times on the right lane...but it was still a struggle to keep up with the transitioning. The left lane was a much bigger problem. I was SO deep...inside 3rd arrow and standing more than 10 boards left of center on the approach...that I was outside my comfort zone and that led to a lot of pulled shots as I would tend to square my shoulders at the line rather than keep my shoulders open. To top it all off...a split in the 8th, a split in the 9th, and then a missed 5-pin in the 10th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.81 pins
Strikes: 43%
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left a single 3-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 58% (7/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 186.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 197.00.

Bad News: What can I say? 169 and a 155...two missed single-pins in the 10th frames....embarrassing. Still unable to to play the "inside line".

Good News:

1. The scores were a bit 'misleading'. The only open in Game 1 was because I wasn't wearing my glasses and 2 of the 4 opens in Game 3 were splits.

2. I shot a 234. It was enough to win me high game and the card game...so I drank for free tonight.

3. Most importantly...the team took 3 out of 4...during position round...and we REALLY needed some separation from ourselves and the rest of the pack. A bad showing would have put us a bad week away from dropping out of 1st place for the first time this season. This 3-point win puts us comfortably ahead of the pack again.

Aslan

02-17-2021, 01:46 AM

J Anderson

02-17-2021, 11:00 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 21

586 Series: 231-181-174

Game 1 was solid. Missed a single 10-pin in the 7th to break up an 8-bagger. That was my only open. Unfortunately, I lost my strike line in the 9th and had to settle for a couple spares to finish things out.

Game 2 I ran into a bit of transition. Since my shots weren't very good, I didn't move right away...thinking maybe it was just execution. By the time I realized it was my line and not my execution...I had wasted 4 frames and 3 of the 4 frames were opens due to a split and 2 of 3 chopped 6-10 leaves. I managed to put a 4-bagger together before completely missing a single 4-pin in the 10th.

In Game 3, lanes were transitioning so fast...I couldn't move fast enough to keep up. Only opened twice, but only struck 3 times.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 46%
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (4/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin (2x)
Left a single 3-pin, 6-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 195.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 203.33.

Not the greatest night. Team lost 3 out of 4 and the second place team won 3 out of 4...so the race just got that much closer.

You need to remember Bowl1820’s old tag line “Better to adjust too soon and leave nine than too late and get a split” or something like that. On a THS, if you are within a board of hitting your target and didn’t do something completely stupid like grab the wrong ball, line up on the wrong board, or drop the ball behind the foul line, your ball should still at least touch the headpin and the 3 pin. Most of us here are not bowling to make a living. We’re bowling to torture ourselves, er, I mean to have fun.😉 While we might throw it better after a game or so, most of us can not consistently will ourselves to throw it better after a so so shot.

Now, if I could only get myself to listen to my own advise🤔

Aslan

02-24-2021, 12:49 AM

You need to remember Bowl1820’s old tag line “Better to adjust too soon and leave nine than too late and get a split” or something like that.

Pretty much. I actually had to explain that to my teammates tonight when I made a ball change and they were criticizing/mocking me. See below.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 22

655 Series: 222-228 (clean)-208 (clean)

Was throwing the Grudge Hybrid well in practice, but first frame when it counted I left a pocket 10-pin (and missed it). Had to make the tough choice of switching to the Aura Mystic or sticking it out with the Grudge Hybrid. My teammates were surprised that I was making ball change so early and didn't understand my reasoning. But it was quite simple. I had already moved left in practice...and was starting to hit the pocket weak. It just wasn't the right ball for the lane conditions. Moving back right would just cause the ball Grudge to dive through the nose. Moving back left would just leave weak hits. Ended up going 9 -, X, X, X, 8 1, 9 -, X, X, X, X X 8.

Just prior to midway through Game 2, I decided another ball change was in order. Tough choice between making the move to the Rhino Gold or the Fortera Exile. Given it was still early and there didn't seem to be a lot of bowlers pushing oil down the lane that would make me think carry down was an issue...I went with the Rhino Gold.
9 /, X, 9 /, X, X, X, 9 /, X, 7 /, X X 9.

By frame 3, I threw a shot that wasn't "that bad" and left a 1-2-8 so I figured maybe it was time to bring out the "big gun" and finish things out with the Fortera Exile.
X, X, 7 /, 8 /, X, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.37 pins
Strikes: 60%
Spares: 75% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, and 6-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 218.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 225.67.

My best series of the season and my first night with two clean games that I can remember. Team took 3 out of 4 which should keep us at least 8 points out in front going into next week.

J Anderson

02-24-2021, 01:30 PM

Tough teammates, mocking you for a change that gets you a 220 game.

Nice to see you pulled your weight this week despite the mocking.

Timmyb

02-24-2021, 04:49 PM

Nice night, Aslan!

Blacksox1

02-27-2021, 04:41 PM

655 series, well done Aslan

Aslan

03-03-2021, 02:53 AM

Tough teammates, mocking you for a change that gets you a 220 game.

Nice to see you pulled your weight this week despite the mocking.

Well, one guy used to own a pro shop...so he thinks he knows everything about everything. Today he got on my case for going after the 10-pin when I left an 8-10 split...rather than go after the 8-pin. Apparently the 8-pin was easier to pick up and I could have picked up the spare easier by throwing a ball straight up the left side of the lane...rather than just pick up the 10-pin and hope for a good bounce off the backstop. I think I'm the only guy he can critique that won't get annoyed with him...so he takes advantage of it.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 23

563 Series: 174-199-190

Tried moving inside of 2nd arrow and sticking with the Grudge Hybrid...but it was tough finding a line that would work well. A few opens and only one turkey pretty much kept the scores down. Ended up going: X, 9 -, 7 /, 8 1, X, X, X, 8 /, 6 2, 9 / 7.

Switched to the Aura Mystic for Game 2, but that only lasted about 5 frames before I switched to the Fortera Exile.
Not a heck of a lot better: 7 1, X, X, 8 1, 7 /, 8 /, 9 /, X, X, X 8 /.

Game 3 I started out with a couple opens...but managed to recover and keep things clean for 5 frames while I tried to find a line that would work.
6 3, 9 -, 7 /, 8 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, X, X 8 1.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.67 pins
Strikes: 36%
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 4-pin, and 9-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 53% (7/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6 (4x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 187.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 193.33.

Oh well. Still a night above my current average (barely)...but nowhere near what I accomplished last week.

Aslan

03-10-2021, 08:48 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 24

592 Series: 197-193-202

Lanes seemed to be playing "slicker"...but still not "slick" enough for me to use my Grudge Hybrid. So I had to move about 2 and 3 right of my usual starting point and was playing a much tighter line with the Aura Mystic. Ended up going: 9 /, 6 3, 8 /, X, 8 1, X, X, 8 /, X, X X 6.

Game 2 was a disaster. My spare shooting fell into a terrible toilet bowl spiral of doom and I opened all 4 of the first 4 frames. Even though most of my problem was picking up the spares, the fact that I was hitting weak and leaving those spares was also a concern...but it felt a little too early to switch to the Exile...so I switched to the Rhino Gold in Frame 5: 7 -, 9 -, 9 -, 7 1, X, 9 /, X, X, X, X X X.

The last strike in Game 2 was really weak, so I thought I'd give the Exile a shot in Game 3. It was the right choice, but the lanes were starting to transition faster, so it seemed that every shot was just an indicator to move slightly left on the next shot.
X, 8 /, 9 /, 8 /, X, 6 3, X, 9 /, X, X X 7.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.97 pins
Strikes: 52%
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (4/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (3x)
Also left a single 4-pin, and 10-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 197.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 203.33.

Negatives:
- Team AGAIN lost 3 out of 4...and continues to lose ground in the standings. We're still in 1st place...but next week may be the first week in 20 weeks that a team might have a chance of over-taking us.

- Our 2nd bowler is continuing to struggle with his lack of speed and last night spent most of the evening wandering around the center pouting.

- Our #3 bowler annoys me. If I'm struggling, he tells me to change balls...for no real reason. If I change balls because I see something in the way the ball is hitting the pins, he gets all crazy because he can't believe somebody would change balls when they are doing well. Meanwhile, he throws the same ball all night...up the same line...regardless of the results...because he has absolutely no understanding of lane conditions or ball technology.

- I had a chance to BEAT bowler #3 for high game in Game #3. He shot a 203. I had to strike out for a 205. I ended up making a bad 3rd shot...missing well right...and leaving the 1-2-8 for a 202. We acted like he was some All-Star because I failed to strike out...until he looked up at the re-cap and saw that I beat him in series on the night.

POSITIVES

- Another night above my average.

- In the last 5 games, I've bowled a consistent 199-190-197-193-202.

vdubtx

03-10-2021, 10:20 AM

It's been a long time!! Great to see you are still at it Aslan!! Keep it going.

Aslan

03-13-2021, 07:20 PM

It's been a long time!! Great to see you are still at it Aslan!! Keep it going.

I'm like herpes or a sore back...you can't ever get rid of me...ya just gotta learn to live with me.

Second Day of New Arsenal Practice: THS (post-junior league)

186-174-178-228 (clean)

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.80 pins
Strikes: 47%
Spares: 73% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (9/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x)
Also left single 2-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, and 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 57% (8/14)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6 and 4-7 (2x each).

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 4 games: 191.50.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a

Good practice on better lane conditions. Got to go through all 4 strike balls in order and see what adjustments needed to be made when switching from one to the next.

The Force Pearl looked amazing. I didn't throw it a lot only because I didn't need to. I took it out in the 8th frame of Game 4 and rattled of a 5-bagger to finish off the practice session. And we're not talking weak ones...these were legit, perfect strikes. So, like the Fortera Exile that it is replacing...I think the Force Pearl is gonna be a good ball for me.

Aslan

03-17-2021, 01:32 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 25

644 Series: 190-242-212

First league night with the new arsenal. Wasn't sure how the Optimus Solid would play, but it did really well. Unfortunately, I started off making some horrible shots and opened in the 8th on a corner pin. Ended up going: 6 /, 7 2, X, 9 /, 9 /, X, X, 9 -, X, X 8 /.

Game 2 I started off missing another corner pin. :mad: But, I then struck on 8 out of the next 9 shots before making a bad shot on the 2nd shot in the 10th.
9 -, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, X, X, X 7 -.

I was able to manage the transition in Game 3, for the most part. I kept things clean until a missed 4-pin in the 8th. I made a bad ball change in the 9th, but salvaged a 200+ game: 9 /, X, X, 6 /, X, X, X, 9 -, 9 /, X 9 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.24 pins
Strikes: 57%
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, and 9-pin. (2x each)
Also left a single 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5-8 bucket (2x)

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 214.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 226.33.

Negatives:
- Our 2nd bowler continued to struggle. I gave him Rob's advice from the thread...but who know's if he'll read it. Bowlers love to complain and hate to take advice...so, who knows?

- Only really got to use the Optimus Solid. Used it right up until the 9th frame of Game 3 when I switched to the Pyramid Force. Should have switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful instead.

- Not a good spare shooting night. Only made 1 out of 5 corner-pin spares. Unacceptable.

POSITIVES

- Fifth straight week above my average.

- The team took 3 out of 4 and remains in first place...at least one more week.

Timmyb

03-18-2021, 12:56 PM

Nice night!

Aslan

03-24-2021, 01:45 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 26

615 Series: 202-222-191

A little more transition with the Optimus Solid this time around. Made it until the 8th frame before I switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful in the 9th. Spare shooting was not optimal. :(. Ended up going: 8 -, X, X, X, 8 /, 8 /, X, 9 /, 9 -, X X X.

Game 2 I actually believed I "might" have my first perfect game. But, reality set in when my speed dropped about 2.3mph on a shot in the 7th and went through the nose and left a 6-pin...which I proceeded to miss terribly. :mad: X, X, X, X, X, X, 9 -, X, 6 3, 8 / 7.

As usual, Game 3 was all about managing transition. Switched to the Force Pearl again, but regretted the decision and probably should have switched to the Special Ops...even though the Force Pearl did an adequate job finishing things out: X, 9 -, 9 /, X, 7 1, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, X X 7.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.20 pins
Strikes: 57%
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 57% (4/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 5-pin, 6-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 205.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 216.67.

Negatives:
- Still not entirely sure about my new arsenal. Not sure if I should have made the switch to the Fore Pearl late in Game 3 or if I should have switched to the Special Ops. I think I made the wrong choice given the Force Pearl again jumped through the nose and caused me to have to move left.

- Another bad spare shooting night. Only made 2 out of 5 corner-pin spares. Unacceptable.

POSITIVES

- Fifth straight week above my average with really consistent scores the last 11 games: 199-190-197-193-202-190-242-212-202-222-191.

- The team took 4 out of 4 and remains in first place...at least two more weeks.

Timmyb

03-25-2021, 08:02 PM

Nice night. You beat me!

Aslan

03-31-2021, 12:32 AM

Nice night. You beat me!

Don't get used to either.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 27

516 Series: 160-180-176

Couldn't seem to find a line with the Optimus Solid in Game 1, so I started with the Yeah Baby Sinful. Missed two corner pins and opened on a split in the 9th. Only struck twice...so, about what one would expect.

Game 2 I got out the Special Ops. I hadn't used it yet...and it seemed stronger than it did when I practiced with it...so my line was way off. I only stuck with it for 5 frames before switching to the Force Pearl. Finished strong: 8 1, X, 9 /, X, X X X.

Game 3 seems to always be about managing transition. Even the Force Pearl's 'magic' couldn't keep the transition from ruining carry:
8 /, 9 /, 9 /, 6 2, 8 -, 9 /, 9 /, X, X, 7 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.68 pins
Strikes: 32%
Spares: 63% picked up

Single Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Never left a single 1-pin nor 4-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0/3 (0%)

Average over 3 games: 172.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 181.67.

No positives this week.

Spare shooting was abysmal. The team lost 3 out of 4 while the team 6 points behind us won 3 out of 4. My streak of 11 games of 190+ came crashing down around me in epic fashion. Just not a good night.

This pair...not sure what it is...but I never shoot well on this pair. Hopefully next week things improve.

Aslan

04-07-2021, 11:06 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 28

494 Series: 153-189-152

Not sure what was going on. The lanes seemed slicker than usual...and I was missing way right. A LOT of 2-pin leaves...washout scenarios...headpin misses. By the time I thought I had my line adjusted, it was the end of Game 1.

Game 2 I started off with a turkey and seemed dialed in...but then my speed dropped and it seemed like it was a maximum penalty type of situation. If my speed was around 16.4...I'd strike. If I dropped down to 14.5 or even 15.4...I'd go through the nose and leave a split. I left FOUR splits in Game 2! They accounted for every open frame. :mad:

By Game 3, I knew I needed to make a change on the right lane...but wasn't sure on the left lane. I also wasn't sure what ball I needed to change TO on the right lane. I didn't do 'badly' in Game 3...only 3 open frames with lanes that were transitioning quickly...I just couldn't carry and again...maximum penalty for speed fluctuation with two more splits.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.53 pins
Strikes: 37%
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (6/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (2x).
Never left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 14% (2/14)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0/6 (0%)

Average over 3 games: 164.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a

I always say that I'm not going to be unhappy when I shoot 100% on single-pin spares...so, I guess I can't be unhappy. And, the numbers are pretty glaringly obvious as to what happened tonight. You can't win at bowling if you're leaving and trying to convert nonsense spares and splits. Fourteen is far too many multi-pin spares and nearly half of them were splits. Not baby splits...we're talking 6-7-10 (2x), 4-6-10, 8-10, 4-6-7, and 6-7 varieties. I mean, Belmo isn't converting those...so obviously I ain't either.

The question is, "why" did I leave them?

1) I need more warm-up time. I threw 3 shots in warm-up and never hit the pocket. 7.5 minutes with 5 players...I don't get enough time to figure anything out...then I spend an entire game trying to figure things out.

2) I need to fix my speed control. I can tell when I'm dialed in. And I can tell when I release the ball and my speed drops. I can feel it and I know that ball is going to go through the nose and I probably will leave a split or maybe get lucky and just shoot a make-able spare. I'll never get a shot at a perfect game if I can't keep my speed consistent shot to shot.

3) It's a new arsenal...I've just resurfaced 3 of the 4 balls...I have to give myself time to learn the new equipment. As difficult as it is...I can't expect to just retire 4 balls and throw 4 new ones...especially drastically different ones...and just immediately pick up where I left off. Gotta manage my expectations.

The "good news" is we split and the 2nd place team split...so with 2 weeks left...we are still 4 points ahead. If we can just have one strong showing next week...maybe just get a +1 point edge going into that position round...then we can lock up 1st place and not have to worry about anything. If not, position round is gonna be a *&$%&! :(

Aslan

04-14-2021, 10:35 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 29

574 Series: 171-181-222

Pretty much a continuation of last week. Continue to struggle with the lanes in the middle of the center. These lanes tend to play "slick". So, in Games 1 and 2...not a lot of strikes...a couple opens...and you end up with scores in the 170s/180s.

Made a change to the Yeah Baby Sinful midway through Game 2, but it wasn't helping much. Figured there might be some carry down at the breakpoint...so I switched to the Force Pearl. Started out with strikes in the front 5. Then, I pulled my shot...twice in a row...and then the lanes started to break down. Once the lanes start to break down...it's really hard to stay ahead of them...especially if any other bowlers were bowling to the left of you during games 1 and 2. I made my spares and was on track for a decent 233...but missed a 4-pin in the 10th. :mad:

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.75 pins
Strikes: 31%
Spares: 75% picked up

Single Pin spares: 77% (7/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 7-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6, 1-2-4, and 1-2-10 (2x each).

Splits: 0/1 (0%)

Average over 3 games: 191.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 198.33.

Obviously the biggest difference this week is I didn't get stuck with 6 splits. I got stuck with a couple 1-2-10 washouts...but actually picked 1 of those up. I wasn't 100% on single-pin spares, but I actually made one more single-pin spare than I made last week...because I left significantly more this week than last week.

I bowled slightly over my average, the team took 3 out of 4 and maintained a 4-game lead over the 2nd place team going into the final week of the season...and my final game won me high game and card game which paid my soda bill for the night.

One week left! All we need is ONE POINT and we take the LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP!!...from the sandbagger 2nd place team. We have to give them 109 pins...they get the 4th most handicap in the league...but it is what it is. IF we lose all 4...then we have a best 2 out of 3 game roll off on the "fun night" the following week. So, it's our championship to lose! If we can't win 1 out of 4 next week and lose 6 out of 7 over two weeks...it's hard to make a case we deserve it...even though we've been in 1st place since Week 4.

Aslan

04-21-2021, 12:08 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 30

So, the situation is simple:

We had been in 1st place since Week 6....but we had been hounded by a "high handicap" team since Week 22. Prior to that...it had been smooth sailing.

But, like I said...going into the final week, it was simple: We were 4 points ahead and needed ONE point. Just one game and we are league champions. IF we lose all 4...we have to do a best 2 out of 3 next week...which would have been a real problem given two of our bowlers couldn't make it next week.

599 Series: 205-199-204

Game 1 I just made a couple bad spare shots. Chopped a 6-10 and missed a 10-pin. We lost the 1st game pretty handedly. :(

Game 2 I had switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful and actually was dialed in quite well. Started off with a 4-bagger before missing another 10-pin. Unfortunately I made a huge mental mistake in the 8th frame when I was trying to pick up a 2-7-8 split. Left a 4-9 split in the 10th to really dampen my score...but the team didn't really need a big game out of me. The opponents were struggling in Game 2 and we had the point we needed.

Game 3 we 'celebrated' so I had FAR more alcohol than I usually do when I bowl and it really started affecting me by the 6th frame. I salvaged a 204 despite having trouble seeing the boards...but we were just playing to finish out the night at that point.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.03 pins
Strikes: 54%
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (6x).
Also left a single 5-pin and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0/2 (0%)

Average over 3 games: 199.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 207.00.

It was a good night. Our captain was almost emotional about it. We had held 1st place for 24 weeks in a 23-team league against some decent competition. My second league in this house and my second league championship. But, this was a fall league, a big league, and a premier league against well-established bowlers.

Very happy about the finish. Not as happy about my individual performance. No honor scores, a < 50% strike rate, < 75% single-pin pick-up rate, and I'm still not averaging in that 195-200 range where I feel I should be.

Gonna do a challenge league on Tuesdays and a scratch league on Wednesdays over the summer. Gonna try a couple leagues in the Fall and might reach out to a coach if my financial situation is stable. Or, maybe just dive in to my Mark Baker DVD and do more self-practice and put in more work.

Blacksox1

04-21-2021, 01:23 PM

Congrats Aslan!!

Aslan

04-22-2021, 05:44 PM

Congrats Aslan!!

Thank you.

Not sur show we pulled it off. We definitely weren't the most talented team, but we made the most of the nights we needed to. 24 weeks is a long time to have a target on your back. It was starting to wear on us by the last 6-7.

boatman37

04-22-2021, 06:09 PM

Great job. We are in last but with 2 weeks left we are going to fight to get out of the basement. Oddly, there is 1 team that we have more scratch pins and more handicap pins and they are in 3rd (of 11 teams). We just bowled them the other night and won 2 of 3. Just shows that they bowl good when they need to. They are just recreational bowlers so I doubt they are sandbagging, just the way the pieces fell for them each week.

SRB57

04-23-2021, 08:14 AM

Congratulations!!

Aslan

04-28-2021, 01:55 AM

Congratulations!!

Great job. We are in last but with 2 weeks left we are going to fight to get out of the basement. Oddly, there is 1 team that we have more scratch pins and more handicap pins and they are in 3rd (of 11 teams). We just bowled them the other night and won 2 of 3. Just shows that they bowl good when they need to. They are just recreational bowlers so I doubt they are sandbagging, just the way the pieces fell for them each week.

Thank you, Thank you.

Turns out the difference between 1st place and 2nd place was < $150 in prize money and 4 USBC League Champion keychains. But, still. It's only the 2nd time I've finished 1st and the first time in a league this big.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 31 - Money Night

633 Series: 217 (clean)-223-193

Game 1 I made my spares, but didn't make my first double until the 8th frame and had to strike out in the 10th to get over 210.

Game 2 I had switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful in Frame 3...where I also missed my first spare...a 9-pin. However, the Yeah Baby Sinful worked well and I ran 5 strikes together before making a bad shot in the 9th and then losing carry in the 10th.

Switched to the Force Pearl in Game 3, but left a stone 8 on the first shot. Missed the spare. Pulled the next shot terribly and opened a second time. Put together a few strikes before missing a 10-pin and then chopping a 5-9; then put together another few strikes and a spare to at least salvage a 193.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.32 pins
Strikes: 55%
Spares: 64% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x).
Also left a single 4-pin, 7-pin, 8-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 211.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 220.67.

"Money Night" is kinda stupid. Only two bowlers from my team bowled. One was bowling the first night of his summer league....and two others just didn't want to. Another bowled the first two games then skipped the 3rd game. Our opponents only had one bowler and a sub. We bet $10 a game and lost the first 2 games. Each person put $1 in for a card game...and I won the final card game. Since it was just me in the last game...we didn't do a game pot...so I ended up losing $10 on the night total with cards being a wash.

The competition was good, and we were playing on lanes I usually do well on...so my scores were pretty high.

Aslan

04-28-2021, 10:54 PM

Miller/Coors Master's Trios: THS

Pre-League: Fun Night

549 Series: 196 (clean)-177-176

Lots of spares in Game 1, but not many strikes. Had trouble figuring out the right lane...which seemed to be playing a good 3:2 right of the left lane. Switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful in Frame 3...so it looked like a night where I might get a shot at seeing the Special Ops in Game 2 and/or Game 3.

More of the same in Game 2. I switched to the Special Ops in Frame 4 but it didn't help much. Missed a single 1-pin in the first frame and then split a 3/4 bucket in the 10th...so the score was abysmal.

Switched to the Force Pearl in the 3rd game and finally ran some strikes together...but only a couple doubles. Opened on a 9-pin in the 3rd frame, a 3-9-10 split in the 7th, and a 1-2-8-10 washout in the 9th...so the opens really put a damper on the score.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.69 pins
Strikes: 40%
Spares: 72% picked up

Single Pin spares: 77% (7/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin, 9-pin, 10-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 183.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 189.00.

Looks like an 8-team league. I'm the only person on my team right now, so hopefully the center can find me some more players. Looks like a few players that can provide some competition...but I should be one of the better bowlers in the league.

Aslan

05-04-2021, 11:55 PM

Weekly Challenge Pattern League: Winding Road

First challenge pattern league since summer 2019. I won that league...but that was handicap and this is scratch...so I don't anticipate standing much of a chance this time around.

484 Series: 174-188-122

Pinpal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.22 pins
Strikes: 28%
Spares: 59% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (6/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin and 9-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 3-pin and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 43% (7/16)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2 (3x).

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 5 games: 161.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: n/a

Only 3 opens in the first 2 games. But, also only 7 strikes in the first 2 games.

Game 3 the wheels came off. Three splits, 2 washouts, and a sum total of 4 marks.

The first night of this league consisted of me and 4 high school bowlers. Yeah. So...4 children and one old guy. We're supposed to get two other guys...but we'll see if they're old enough to buy tobacco products.

Aslan

05-06-2021, 12:15 AM

Miller/Coors Master's Trios: THS

Week 1

575 Series: 214 (clean)-178-183

Thought I was on track to put together quite a game after starting out with a 4-bagger, but then lost my line and never really got it back. Kept things clean, but mostly terrible spares that I managed to convert.

Game 2 I finally had a couple opens...but then managed to put together six nice frames: X, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, X before leaving a 4-6-7-9 split in the 10th.

Game 3 started out with an open...a 2-4-10 split...but I kept things clean the rest of the way. Unfortunately, only 3 strikes over the remaining 9 frames.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.50 pins
Strikes: 37%
Spares: 77% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (5x).
Also left a single 3-pin and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 1-2-4-8 and 2-4-5 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 191.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 195.33.

Well....all that stuff I said about being one of the best bowlers in the league...forget all that. I got PUMMELED!! I think my opponent put up a 244-229-276 or something like that. I think he ended up with a 749 series.

It's nights like these I question whether I'm doing the right thing pushing myself with challenge pattern leagues and scratch leagues when I could be bowling in a couple "fun" leagues against people that can barely average 120. Who knows, maybe I meet a female bowler with low standards who finds me mildly amusing? Maybe I can impress them with my ability to mark several times a game?

Oh well.

Aslan

05-12-2021, 11:18 AM

Weekly Challenge Pattern League: Route 66, 45ft

Second week of challenge league. Another couple younger guys showed up...both 200ish average bowlers. The pattern is fairly long, but very low-volume (13mL?)...so I expected it to dry out pretty quick.

Two opens per game in Games 1 and 2. However, a lot more striking in Game 1. Game 3 was 4 opens...half due to spares and half due to bad spare shooting...including an open in the 10th.

586 Series: 222-198-166

Stepladder Finals: 167

Pinpal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 46%
Spares: 46% picked up

Single Pin spares: 25% (1/4)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (2x).
Also left a single 4-pin and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2 (3x).

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 5 games: 195.33.
Average had I picked up 100% of single pin spare leaves: 204.67.

I was the leader after Game 1, but dropped to 3rd after Game 2 and 4th after Game 3. There was a stepladder for the top 5. I didn't bowl "badly", but I couldn't convert a washout in the 5th, missed a 7-pin in the 7th, and then got stuck with a 2-4-10 split in the 9th. Just not enough striking to make up for 3 opens...not when the other guy is striking and keeping things clean.

Aslan

05-13-2021, 10:56 AM

Miller/Coors Master's Trios: THS

Week 2

584 Series: 212-193-179

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.06 pins
Strikes: 53%
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common single-pin leaves: 7-pin and 10-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 2-pin and 4-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (3/9)
Most common multi-pin leaves: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 194.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 205.33.

No need for a game-by-game blow-by-blow. As the only player on my 3-person team, I face the other team's anchor each night. It's a scratch league. I could have beaten him Game 1...but I missed two corner pins and it cost me a clean game and cost me the game. You can't beat a better bowler when you make unforced errors.

This is my last week in the league. I am switching to the Tuesday Master's Trios league and dropping out of the weekly Challenge League. Not because I want to...per se...but my old teammate needed a bowler on Tuesday and I am the only person on a 3-person team on Wednesdays...so it just makes more sense. I'm gonna call today and see if there's another league at the Tuesday Challenge League center this summer...and maybe I'll do another league. Maybe I'll just do the one league...we'll see.

Aslan

05-17-2021, 10:41 PM

First night in my new Monday league. Left my Tuesday Challenge league to bowl in a Tuesday Trios Scratch league, so I felt it only fair to bowl in that center's other summer league.

Summer Duos League: THS, dry conditions

554 Series: 171-200-183

Was thinking I was going to dominate this league of very casual/beginner type bowlers. Then, I started off with 5 straight opens. I just resurfaced 3 of the 4 bowling balls...and lets just say the Optimus Solid at 1000 matte is tremendously too strong for these dry conditions. I likely won't be able to use that ball, on these lanes, and will have to start out with the Yeah Baby Sinful going forward.

Had a pretty good Game 2, but for a missed 4-pin and a couple splits. Same thing in Game 3...two splits and a missed 10-pin.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 54%
Spares: 21% picked up

Single Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, 7-pin, 8-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 11% (1/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/5)

Average over 3 games: 184.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 193.67.

I forgot how dry these lanes are. I thought with the new oil machine that perhaps things had changed. Nope. And resurfacing the balls was the opposite of what I needed to do. Once I made the switch to the Yeah Baby Sinful...then to the Special Ops...I threw 18 strikes on 27 shots.

It was kinda relaxing to bowl in this league. I almost forgot what it was like to bowl in a league where people were just there to have fun.

Aslan

05-19-2021, 01:10 PM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 3

762 Series: 167-209-232-154

Game 1 I opened on 2 single-pins and then a split in the 10th. You can't win a scratch league against quality competition and miss single-pins.

Game 2 I settled down a bit. Split in the 4th kept me from a clean game.

Game 3 I was a pocket 9 leave away from the front 8. The Special Ops, which I rarely use, was just hammering the pocket. Another split, this time in the 9th, cost me a clean game.

Game 4 I decided to finish with the Force Pearl. Usually an automatic 195+ when I switch to that ball...but I struggled to get back to the pocket something terrible. Didn't strike until the 8th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.95 pins
Strikes: 50%
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin (3x).
Also left a single 8-pin, 9-pin (2x), and 10-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 53% (7/13)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 6-10 and 4-6-7 split (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 190.50.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 196.50.

Left my Wednesday league for a full team on Tuesdays with a guy I bowled a summer scratch league with two summers ago. Once they figure out my handicap, we probably took 7 out of 20 points. The team only had 2 points in the first 2 weeks...so this is an improvement. And, we played a very, very good team with one PBA50 player anchoring it. Hard to win in scratch leagues when you're playing a team of 200+ average bowlers and nobody on your team averages 195. Heck, one of them averages sub-160.

Just want the practice. I need to work on my form and fix my spare shooting woes before fall season.

J Anderson

05-19-2021, 01:35 PM

Just want the practice. I need to work on my form and fix my spare shooting woes before fall season.

Don’t we all.

Ryster

05-19-2021, 04:18 PM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Left my Wednesday league for a full team on Tuesdays with a guy I bowled a summer scratch league with two summers ago. Once they figure out my handicap, we probably took 7 out of 20 points. The team only had 2 points in the first 2 weeks...so this is an improvement. And, we played a very, very good team with one PBA50 player anchoring it. Hard to win in scratch leagues when you're playing a team of 200+ average bowlers and nobody on your team averages 195. Heck, one of them averages sub-160.

Just want the practice. I need to work on my form and fix my spare shooting woes before fall season.

Handicap in a scratch league?

Aslan

05-19-2021, 07:58 PM

Handicap in a scratch league?

It's a 20-point format where head-to-head is scratch but handicap is used for team points.

So, you get 1 point for each game scratch against your opponent: 3 players x 4 games = 12 points. 1 point for each scratch total = 3 more points = 15.

Then, each team total + handicap for 4 points (4 games). Then I think the overall total (handicap) is worth 2 points...so I guess it's a 21-point format.

Can't really sandbag because 15 of the 21 points are scratch. But, a high average team can't just bowl badly and expect to sweep points either.

Aslan

05-19-2021, 09:09 PM

Summer Duos League: THS, dry conditions

437 Series: 144-153-140

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 7.94 pins
Strikes: 16%
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin, 7-pin, and 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 5-pin and 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 47% (8/17)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5-8 bucket, 3-6-10, 6-10, and 1-2-4-10 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 145.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 156.00.

Had to pre-bowl...1st time ever.

Garbage. Not sure if its the lanes, they didn't oil them, or it was just one of those rare nights of pure frustration. If this continues, then I won't be bowling at this center again. I "thought" them getting new ownership and a new oil machine might improve things...but this is two straight nights on what is supposed to be a THS shot and I can't get any of 4 balls to finish strong in the pocket.

I didn't even bother with the Optimus Solid...knew there'd be no way of using that. The Yeah Baby was getting to the pocket and not carrying. I tried the Special Ops for most of the time, but if I moved in I'd leave a washout and if I moved right I'd go through the nose. I pulled out the Force Pearl thinking maybe there was oil at the breakpoint...which is common if a center doesn't oil before leagues...but for the second straight night...the Force Pearl was abysmal.

My recent surfacing seems to have really messed things up. The Optimus Solid at 1000 Abralon is just way to strong for the THSs I play on. The Yeah Baby Sinful at 1500 Siaair seems to lose too much energy before getting to the pocket. I've yet to resurface the Special Ops. And, the Force Pearl at 100/Step 1/Step2/polish just seems to no longer have the "pop" it did when it was at 800/Step 1/(polished).

Oh well...3 days in a row of bowling and I'm due for a mental break.

Aslan

05-26-2021, 01:46 AM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 4

734 Series: 191-192-204-147

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.75 pins
Strikes: 36%
Spares: 72% picked up

Single Pin spares: 88% (8/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 4-pin and 10-pin (4x each).
Also left a single 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 62% (10/16)
Most common multi-pin leaves: 3-6-10 and 2-4-5-8 bucket (3x each)

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 183.50.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 185.50.

Struggled to run strikes together. Had trouble on the left lane. When ya can't run strikes together, you can't make any mistakes. I thought my corner-pin spare shooting was good...but my multi-spare shooting was not.

Been too busy lately to resurface the bowling balls...and I need to get a better surface on the Force Pearl (as discussed in previous thread).

I think the team took 11.5 of 21 points against a high handicap team.

Aslan

06-02-2021, 01:54 AM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 5

763 Series: 225-171-201-166

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.11 pins
Strikes: 48%
Spares: 56% picked up

Single Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 3-pin, 5-pin (2x), 6-pin, and 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 41% (5/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 190.75.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 199.00.

Struggled to run strikes together. Had trouble on the left lane. When ya can't run strikes together, you can't make any mistakes. I thought my corner-pin spare shooting was good...but my multi-spare shooting was not.

Been too busy lately to resurface the bowling balls...and I need to get a better surface on the Force Pearl (as discussed in previous thread).

The team had a rough night, but managed to take 9 of 21 points. Managed to strike out a couple times...but not at all happy with my spare shooting tonight.

Aslan

06-08-2021, 04:30 PM

Summer Duos League: THS, dry conditions

617 Series: 268 (clean)-164-185

Usually don't bother with the Optimus Solid at this house due to the dry conditions, but the Yeah Baby Sinful just wasn't carrying on the fresh. The move worked. Had I struck on the final ball I'd have had my 4th highest game ever instead of a tie for 4th with a 268 I shot back on 5/15/2019. However, that one was sanctioned. It wasn't clean, but it was in a sanctioned league...which I don't think this league is.
9 /, X, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, X X 9.

Game 2 was just bad spare shooting. Missed a 7-pin in the 1st frame and a 10-pin in the 4th frame. Actually made 50% of my single-pins that game...but 50% isn't good.

Game 3 I switched from the Yeah Baby Sinful to the Special Ops. Only open was a bad miss right in the 2nd frame that left me with a 1-2-5-9 washout that I completely whiffed on. But, couldn't run many strikes together.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 7.94 pins
Strikes: 52%
Spares: 71% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 6-pin and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (4/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 205.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 213.33.

This league is horrible. I'm like 3-4 weeks in and I still don't have an envelope and the league doesn't have league sheets. It almost feels like a ripoff. But, this is why you don't bowl in non-sanctioned leagues. Not sure if we'll have know the standings or if there will ever be a payout of prize money or what. The house just seems to take in everyone's weekly money and thats that.

Aslan

06-09-2021, 11:37 AM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 6

754 Series: 185-186-174-209 (clean)

Game 1 I was doing great...then lost my carry, switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful (YBS)...and couldn't find my line.
X, X, X, X, 8 1, 9 /, 9 /, 7 /, 6 2, 8 1.

Game 2 I was trying everything to get the YBS to work...but it just wasn't working.
8 1, 5 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 /, 8 /, X, 8 / X.

Game 3, by the time I thought I finally had the YBS figured out...it seemed like it was time for a ball change again. So, in the 5th frame I switched to the Special Ops. That ball change didn't last long...by the 10th I changed to the Force Pearl because the Special Ops was just not cutting it.
X, 8 /, 8 /, X, 7 /, X, 9 -, X, 7 2, X 5 /.

The new surface on the Force Pearl still doesn't seem to have the pop I was getting before....and I was very close to getting a Dutch 200. When I made a good shot, the Pyramid Force really hits the pocket hard. But, like most skid/flip balls...if you DON'T release them well or you miss left...they're just not forgiving at all.
6 /, X, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, X, 7 /, X, 9 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.74 pins
Strikes: 44%
Spares: 75% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin, 4-pin, and 10-pin (2x)
Also left a single 6-pin and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 68% (11/16)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 188.50.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 191.50.

I'm, apparently, a remarkably consistent bowler when you bowl 4-game sets...week-to-week. [762-734-763-754]. I'd like to see that in the 760-800 range rather than the 730-770 range...but, until I can get this new arsenal figured out...it's gonna be rough going whenever I gotta make a ball change.

Our team has moved from the basement to 3rd from last and picked up some more points tonight. I again picked up 4 out of 5 of the points available to me head-to head. Gonna be tougher next week. These last two weeks I was bowling scratch against inferior bowlers. Next week I'll be putting my 188 average up against someone's 182 average...much closer match-up.

Aslan

06-15-2021, 01:12 AM

Summer Duos League: THS, dry conditions

525 Series: 204-156-165

Didn't seem too bad of a game. But, once I lost my line with the Optimus Solid...it took me a few frames to adjust to the ball change.
9 /, X, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, 8 1, 7 /, X X 9.

Game 2 collapsed. I was really struggling to adjust to my opponents throwing polyester balls and pushing oil down the lane.
X, 9 /, 7 1, X, 8 1, 9 /, X, 7 -, X, 9 /9.

By Game 3, I had switched to the Force Pearl. I thought that was the perfect ball change...but seemed like I was too far inside.
X, 8 /, 8 1, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, 8 /, 6 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 33%
Spares: 70% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (11/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 6-pin and 10-pin (3x each)
Also left a single 4-pin, 7-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 33% (3/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-5 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 175.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a

Well, I always say that I'll never complain if I'm perfect on my single-pin spare shooting...and tonight I was 11 for 11. So, I'm a man of my word and I won't complain.

The league still sucks. We finally got league recap sheets tonight. I finally got an envelope. The stats on the recap sheet were wrong. And the league coordinator wants us to bowl 6 games next week to close out the league next week. That should be interesting given how dry the lanes are normally.

J Anderson

06-15-2021, 07:59 AM

Aslan

06-17-2021, 04:13 AM

So your summer league ends the first official week of summer? Or does “close out the league next week” mean something other than what I think it does?

I have no friggin clue. This is what I get for trying to be "fair". I only joined the league because I felt bad about leaving the Tuesday league after 3 weeks. And my "reward" was to get in a league that apparently only lasted though June, didn't have recap sheets until this past week...the recap sheets were wrong...and I didn't get an envelope until I asked for one "again" this past week. Welcome to non-sanctioned leagues and why I don't usually bowl in them.

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 7

771 Series: 192-178-163-184

Starting off with two straight opens didn't help...but I recovered to salvage a game above my average.
7 2, 6 3, X, X, 8 /, 8 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, X X 9.

I switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful, but finally missed my first single-pin in quite awhile in the 7th frame. Made a terrible error on the final shot when I only needed to pick up 2 of 4 pins (shooting at a 3-6-9-10) to win my point...and I THOUGHT I had the point wrapped up...so I just tossed the ball towards the right side...not really caring what I hit...and it went in the gutter. I list the match 179-178.
8 1, 5 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 /, 8 /, X, 8 / X.

Game 3 I switched to the Special Ops and moved way inside. I struggled with the single pins..missing a 10-pin early...then chopping a 3-6-10. I was able to recover and keep things largely clean until a missed 4-pin in the 9th. Once again, I went into the 10th frame needing to simply pick up my 1-2-8-9 and I would win my match. Instead, I chopped it and lost AGAIN by 1 pin: 164-163.
9 -, 7 2, 8 /, X, 7 /, X, 8 /, 8 /, 9 -, X 6 3.

I stuck it out with the Special Ops rather than switching to the Force Pearl...but decided to move back towards the track. I was just too far inside and had no real line to play. I only opened once...a chopped 6-10 in the 6th...but could only manage two strikes in the first 9 frames. AGAIN I was heading into the 10th frame and it was coming down to the wire. My opponent missed his single-pin spare and opened. I struck on my first ball. He finished with a 185 and I had a 167 in the 9th plus the strike in the 10th. My next shot I left a 4-6-7 split (of course) and FOR SOME REASON figured I had to pick it up in order to tie. OBVIOUSLY, I did the math wrong in my head and only needed two pins to win. I threw a backup ball at the 4-7...but missed them and ended up losing 185-184. MY THIRD STRAIGHT loss by ONE POINT!! :mad:
8 /, 9 /, 7 /, X, X, 8 1, 9 /, 6 /, 9 /, X 7 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.67 pins
Strikes: 35%
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common single-pin leaves: 4-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 7-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 52% (9/17)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 179.25.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 187.00.

My lowest series in the league thus far. I could have taken all 5 of my individual match points...having lost 3 of the 4 head-to-head games by only 1 pin. That really hurts...especially when 2 of the 3 were lost at least in part due to miscalculations and me not realizing what I needed to do to win the point. No excuse for that. My fall team wouldn't let me make that mistake (if it were team points on the line...fall isn't head-to-head format)...they'd 'gently remind me' before I go up in the 10th frame or take a second shot, "Hey, we need count."

Just, really disappointed in my spare shooting after going 11 for 11 Monday. Really frustrated that I couldn't play the inside line with the Special Ops. I want to develop 3 lines and be able to open up the lanes more...play the track, play outside, and play inside...but I just can't seem to get the inside line to work consistently. And, it's always a bummer when you throw your worst series of the season...first time in this league where I average below 180.

J Anderson

06-17-2021, 07:52 AM

Just, really disappointed in my spare shooting after going 11 for 11 Monday. Really frustrated that I couldn't play the inside line with the Special Ops. I want to develop 3 lines and be able to open up the lanes more...play the track, play outside, and play inside...but I just can't seem to get the inside line to work consistently. And, it's always a bummer when you throw your worst series of the season...first time in this league where I average below 180.

When you move inside what is the problem?does the ball not make the turn? Do you have more trouble hitting your mark?

Guys who like to go straight often have problems hitting their mark/sending the ball off at the correct angle. Sometimes it’s just the shoulders and hips don’t open up or stay open enough. Some times when we move our feet left, we walk back toward our target. Some times we’re so worried about the ball getting back to the pocket we yank the heck out of it.

Do you try to use less ball speed when you play inside?

Aslan

06-22-2021, 12:43 PM

When you move inside what is the problem?does the ball not make the turn? Do you have more trouble hitting your mark?

Guys who like to go straight often have problems hitting their mark/sending the ball off at the correct angle. Sometimes it’s just the shoulders and hips don’t open up or stay open enough. Some times when we move our feet left, we walk back toward our target. Some times we’re so worried about the ball getting back to the pocket we yank the heck out of it.

Do you try to use less ball speed when you play inside?

I'm not really sure.

Originally I was taught to walk straight and keep my shoulders open. But, that didn't work.
Then I was taught to walk toward the target...which seems to work better...but not well.
Some people say it's a matter of needing to change targeting...some say I need to drop my speed.

I don't know. I gotta decide when I need to get back to coaching.

Summer Duos League: THS, dry conditions

607 Series: 156-264 (clean)-187

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 54%
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin and 10-pin (3x each)
Also left a single 2-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 202.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 208.67.

One good game sandwiched between two "ho-hum" games.

---------------------------------------

Summer Duos League: THS, dry conditions

MAKE-UP for Memorial Day

541 Series: 147-224-170

Game 1 was rough because we switched lanes and didn't get any practice shots to figure out where the line was. Took me about 4 frames to find it.

Game 2 I was a 6-7-10 split in the 8th frame away from second clean game and a second 230+ game.

Game 3 I struck every shot on the right lane and not only DIDN'T strike on the first 4 shots on the left lane...but I OPENED on the first 4 shots on the left lane! And 3 of the 4 were single pins! Two 10-pins and a 7-pin! Made a desperate adjustment in the 10th and struck out to salvage the 170.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.82 pins
Strikes: 52%
Spares: 43% picked up

Single Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 7-pin and 2-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games:180.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 196.33.

Just miserable spare shooting.

Aslan

06-24-2021, 10:24 PM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 8

800 Series: 158-217-226-199

Knew I was probably using the wrong ball...but in a 4-game series, I didn't want to make a ball change too early. So, I moved my target out a bit...which messed up my timing and accuracy a bit and caused me to miss right on 4 out of 5 shots. Finally, in the 6th frame, I changed to the ball I probably should have started with.
X, - /, 6 3, 6 2, 7 /, X, 9 /, X, 7 /, 6 3.

The Yeah Baby Sinful was actually working well...up and in, up the 7-8 board. I struck in the 6th, but it was weak enough that I decided to switch to the Special Ops. Not 100% sure the Special Ops was much better, but I did okay. Only open was a 6-7-10 split in the 5th.
8 /, X, X, X, 7 2, X, X, 6 /, 9 /, X X 7.

The Special Ops hit the pocket in the 4th and left a wobbling 8-pin. It wobbled so much that the camera counted it as a strike. I actually thought it was a strike. Anyways, that weak pocket hit prompted a switch to the Force Pearl.
X, 7 /, X, 9 -, X, X, X, 9 /, X, X X 9.

Made a couple bad shots early on...but recovered well enough to almost come back and beat my opponent that started out with the front 4. Once AGAIN...I had a shot at taking a point...all I needed to do was knock down the 7-pin...but instead, not knowing how close the score was, I shot at the 10-pin and missed it. I lose 200-199. Fourth out of the last 8 games I lost by one point. :( :mad:
9 /, 8 1, X, 8 1, X, X, X, X, X, 8 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.75 pins
Strikes: 54%
Spares: 55% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common single-pin leaves: 8-pin (2x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (6/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 (2x)

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 200.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 203.00.

Went from my lowest series of the season last week to my highest series of the season this week. I wish I could have put together a better game...I mean, not one game in the 230+ range and not one clean game...and obviously there was the sub-160 disaster. I'm not gonna blame four splits or anything like that...because I honestly got some lucky strikes. At least there is some hope that I can put together an 800+ series going forward.

Aslan

06-30-2021, 01:39 PM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 9

715 Series: 160-149-188-218

Too much surface leads to hitting the pocket with no carry. And, then there was just **** poor spare shooting. I should have never even started with the Optimus Solid...but in a 4-game series...I didn't want to switch to the YBS too soon...so...I spent the first 6 frames treading water miserably. :mad:
9 -, 9 /, 9 -, X, 9 -, 6 1, X, 8 /, 9 /, X X 9.

Again...the YBS with an 800 Siaair surface...means having to loft the ball out to the target a bit more than I'm comfortable with...which means missing my target right and then pulling it left...and the line I was playing was just too tight. Given the high RG of the ball, I didn't have any miss room right...and there was no miss room inside playing straight at the pocket up the 10-12 board.
X, 8 1, X, 7 1, 8 /, X, 6 -, 9 /, 9 /, 7 / 7.

After two more frames of misery, I finally had enough and made the move to the Special Ops. Not my favorite ball. Thus far a huge disappointment...but using these balls with all this surface just wasn't working...so time to give something polished a try. By the 10th frame, it was clear I needed to get the Pyramid Force out.
7 /, 7 2, X, 8 -, X, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, X 7 1.

With the "Grey Ball of Fire" out...I finally felt like 'maybe' I had a chance to salvage a good game.
X, X, X 6 3, X, X, X, 9 -, X, X 7 /.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.84 pins
Strikes: 44%
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (6/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 38% (5/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 178.75.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 189.25.

I just resurfaced my equipment and it seems like the 1000 surface on the Optimus Solid and 800 surface on the Yeah Baby Sinful...and the line I'm playing...or trying to line up and play...the ball just isn't retaining enough energy. When I try to move inside, I just don't have the hand to get the angle and it doesn't seem to carry either. And this creates a problem in a 4-game series...because I can't spend 4 games playing with a polished Special Ops that has thus far been very underwhelming...and waiting for carry down so I can pull out the Force Pearl. I need to figure out how to use balls that are solid and have some surface and allow me to move a bit inside. And, thus far, I haven't figured out how to do that. :(

Aslan

07-07-2021, 01:17 AM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 10

784 Series: 201-202-158-223

Again, too much surface on the Optimus Solid. At least this time I didn't wait around and try to use it anyways. Switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful in the 4th frame.
9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 6 /, X, X, 9 /, X, 8 1, X X X.

The YBS seemed to be doing well, but I started to lose that carry about midway through Game 2 and decided to switch to the Special Ops in the 7th frame.
9 /, X, X, X, X, 9 /, 7 2, 9 -, 7 2, X X 9.

Switched to the Pyramid Force Pearl after 5 frames. But, a combination of bad shots, splits, bad spare shooting, and just bad carry made Game 3 a total loss.
9 /, 9 /, X, 7 2, 9 /, 9 /, 7 1, X, 9 -, 9 / 9.

As usual, with a full game of the Force Pearl, I usually do well.
X, 9 -, X, X, X, 9 /, 8 / , 8 /, X, X X X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.17 pins
Strikes: 46%
Spares: 65% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (12/15)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (9x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin (2x), and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 196.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 203.75.

Just didn't have the carry tonight. I'm somewhat happy about my single-pin spare shooting...but not that I had to shoot so dang many!

Aslan

07-11-2021, 10:11 AM

Open Bowling: Upper Michigan

Aslan vs. His Uncle

Synthetic Overlay: THS (dry)

159-139-176

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 7.91 pins
Strikes: 21%
Spares: 56% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (6/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (2x)
Also left single 4-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 41% (7/17)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-8 (3x).

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 158.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a

Given that the lanes weren't likely oiled since league night 24 hours earlier...I decided to just start with the Force Pearl and assume the lanes were wore down and carry down was at the breakpoint. I probably shouldn't have assumed this...and wouldn't have had I had practice time...but given the facts of the situation and no practice time...it seemed most logical.

Mostly it was just not a forgiving environment and I wasn't making great shots. A miss right...even a small miss wasn't likely to carry. ANY miss left and it was through the nose. With more experience at the center...or time to practice at the center...I could have found a line that might have played better...I just didn't have the opportunity.

The competition was a hollow victory. I think I ended up winning easily 474-365. Originally I was told to bring my bowling balls because my uncle wanted me to bowl against my niece...a former college bowler. But, she was unavailable and we were on a tight schedule...so I challenged him and he reluctantly accepted.

It was a hollow victory. He, along with my grandfather, was one of the reasons I started bowling. He used to easily average in the 190s and that was back when balls weren't what they are today and lane conditions weren't as easy. But, age eventually catches us all...and now he can't average 160 and it's pretty much all physical.

I never bowl well on open bowling conditions. My progression is designed to attack fresh conditions and adapt as the conditions break down. To just "jump into" conditions that have been bowled on 'willy nilly'...without enough practice time to figure out where I am in my progression...leaves me bowling blind.

In addition, we had just came back from a funeral and neither of us were in the best state of mind to be bowling. Kinda just, going through the motions. I think he knew he was going to lose and was just hoping for a miracle. I knew I was going to win and was just hoping it would be close enough that he wouldn't feel too bad about it. Maybe one of these days I can make it up there and bowl his niece (on my Aunt's side of the family...not my sister)...and I'm sure she'll take me out with ease...especially on her home court.

RobLV1

07-11-2021, 02:02 PM

Two points:

1. If your "progression" only works on fresh conditions (sometimes), wouldn't it be beneficial for you to learn to make other kinds of adjustments?

2. Until you finally accept that carry down has little to no affect on modern reactive resin bowling balls, you will not get to where you want to be.

You are living proof that holding on to old bowling beliefs that are no longer true is a detriment to achieving your goals. I say this only because I consider you to be my friend, and I would really like to see you achieve your bowling potential.

Rob

Aslan

07-13-2021, 01:50 PM

Two points:

1. If your "progression" only works on fresh conditions (sometimes), wouldn't it be beneficial for you to learn to make other kinds of adjustments?
I wouldn't phrase it that way...I'd phrase it this way:

Could a PBA event be held on open bowling conditions on a random Saturday afternoon at a random center where the center hadn't oiled in 24 hours and customers had been throwing plastic house balls on it? If not...and I'd hazard the answer is "no"...why is that and what is the answer to that problem?

I realize I'm not in the PBA...but the problem trickles downward and essentially ruins the "sport" of bowling. It's just too pattern dependent. And if people can manipulate that pattern by not oiling, oiling wrong, or by having kids throwing plastic balls all over the place...then you don't have a repeatable condition to apply your knowledge to...which means every day is "bowling blind". I realize that plays into your "Rob's chaos theory"...but if your theory is true...then bowling is truly doomed for the many reasons I've listed before.

2. Until you finally accept that carry down has little to no affect on modern reactive resin bowling balls, you will not get to where you want to be.
Like I said before...I trust your data...but your data was not comprehensive enough.

Does carry down exist after one bowler, bowling on one lane, 10 games, with a reactive ball, throwing only strike shots? No.
Does carry down exist after a 2 v 2 league, only reactive resin balls, 3 games, probably not.
Does carry down exist after a 3 v 3 league, only reactive resin balls, 3 games, maybe...maybe not.
Does carry down exist after a 4 v 4 league, reactive resin + spare balls, 3 games...probably...a little.
Does carry down exist if 3 of those bowlers above are lefties? Maybe not.
Does carry down exist if 3 of those bowlers above are throwing urethane? Probably.
Etc... Etc... Etc...

It's simple physics. Reactive resin is going to "carry down" a small amount of oil and push around a small amount of oil. They are going to "suck up" a small amount as well. Urethane and plastic are going to push around and carry down much more. Polished/Pearls are going to push and carry down more than sanded/matte/solids...to some degree.

How do you account for all these variables in your testing? How can you say definitively that I'm not saying carry down when I'm watching every bowler on my team leave flat 10s? Especially when I switch to a ball designed to defeat carry down and carry those 10s? How do you account for mixed leagues where bowlers throw plastic balls as strike balls and spray/pray?

Again, I'm not arguing your results...I think some "old school" bowlers rely far too much on the idea of carry down as if it was still 1970. They don't realize that reactive resin balls don't push oil around the way the urethane balls did...yet they can't get past it. BUT...there's also this stubbornness by some, named RobM, to absolutely ignore carry down no matter what the bowler sees on the lanes and blame any leave that could be blamed on carry down as "anything but carry down".

You are living proof that holding on to old bowling beliefs that are no longer true is a detriment to achieving your goals. I say this only because I consider you to be my friend, and I would really like to see you achieve your bowling potential.

Rob
Maybe. I'm not saying you're wrong. I've approached bowling as a sponge...I've taken in opinions from a wide range of sources. I started out using a "benchmark ball" and it didn't work. I switched to a "progression" and it worked better. I didn't make that decision on my own...it was influenced by a professional coach. That doesn't make it the right decision. Some pros use progressions and some use a benchmark approach.

I think I'm frustrated at this point because I was making a LOT of progress in California because I bowled a LOT and got coaching 3 times a month. Now, I don't have the time nor money to practice or take lessons...and I'm just stuck averaging in the 180s and I can't seem to get better. I think I need to get in better physical shape...which is a constant battle because I'm also getting older. Not everyone is A. Monticelli. I'm still on the good side of 50, but I'm not improving. I was really hoping to be in the 200-225 average range by the time I got into my 50s...and I've actually slid backwards 10 pins over the last 5 years.

I always appreciate input...even if I don't always agree with the approach 100%.

RobLV1

07-13-2021, 03:16 PM

Aslan

07-13-2021, 10:30 PM

While I rarely post responses, I always read your posts. My "proof" that your theories are flawed comes simply from the number of times that you have HUGE variations from one game to the next. This fact, in itself says that you need help with how you adjust. . Interesting.

Just because a center doesn't put out fresh oil on the weekend doesn't mean that bowling is doomed. It means that spoiled league bowlers who can only bowl on freshly oiled lanes are either going to quit practicing or they are going to learn to figure out how to get it done... regardless of the lane condition. Which are you?
Alright...I'll bite.

Modern bowling...your bread and butter...is built on the concept that a bowling ball moves through 3 distinct phases. It needs to:

Skid: Through the fronts...often through burnt up conditions.

Hook: At some point, the ball needs to encounter friction and turn.

Roll: The ball must turn and roll through the pins for optimal carry.

Now, Skid and Roll aside...the Hook phase requires a "breakpoint"...essentially an 8-board area...a rather large target down lane...where the ball encounters friction. Now, I realize I'm drastically over-simplifying this and technically the ball is encountering friction from the moment it is released, etc, etc... But, the point is...IF there is oil at the breakpoint...IF...then the ball can't hook as much as it needs to. The ball will then go "high" into the pocket and this will almost always result in a flat 10-pin or some type of 2-pin combination or maybe a weak strike where the ball exits the pin deck over the 9-pin.

Even IF we disagree about whether carry down exists in the modern game...due to modern lanes versus wood lanes and oil volumes and ball compositions, etc... We can at LEAST agree that oil in an area where a ball needs to hook...will cause the ball to skid longer...and that will leave the leaves I mentioned above. Correct?

Okay...so, you show up on a wonderful Saturday morning to practice and you take out your "Benchmark Ball"...I take out my "Ball #1". I line up in my usual starting location...you pick some random place due to your chaos theory. It doesn't really matter. Because, we're both going to leave 10-pins. Now...is that because of the "carry down"? Maybe. Maybe not. It 'might' be that we're just:

- on the wrong the line.
- using the wrong ball.
- using the wrong hand position.
- using the wrong speed.
- should switch to a 3-step, 4-step, or 5-step approach.
- should add or reduce loft.
- should move forward or back on the approach.
- should add/decrease axis tilt.
- should add/decrease axis rotation.
- or...the pins weren't racked perfectly.

Now, we don't know why we left a 10-pin. There's no way to tell. The scoring monitor doesn't tell us. We can only hope to discern if it was a flat 10 or a ringing 10...and even that is often times difficult if you're not paying attention. And remember! This assumes you made a good shot!

Now, we can go through each of those 10 items on that list...we can spend all afternoon at South Point...drilling down on each one of those items...until my knee falls off and your back gives out. BUT...if at the end of the day...if the culprit is carry down at the breakpoint...we just wasted a day, a back, and a knee.

And THAT is my concern. I'm 100% in agreement with you that it's great to have ways to deal with anything the lanes throw at you. Anyone that doesn't...good luck if you ever bowl in a tournament that lasts more than 4 games...because bowling on burnt conditions will kill you physically and mentally. You can't bring enough bowling balls with you to battle every possible scenario...you need other tools as well. But, when you're trying to figure out what you need to do to make those adjustments...you want to limit as many variables as possible. You don't want to add variables. Carrydown and random oil patterns during practice is essentially adding a variable. Now, you're not striking...and you don't know why. You may be doing everything right...but you're going to walk away from that center thinking you need to make drastic changes...all because you bowled 2 hours after a kids birthday party.

Aslan

07-13-2021, 10:57 PM

Now that I've argued with my former teacher...I'll post my worst bowling scores in recent memory to validate everything he's been saying...that I'm essentially a horrible bowler that knows nothing. :(

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 11

628 Series: 162-147-180-139

I don't know. I was lined up well in practice. I don't know if it's still just too much surface at 1000 or if the line just broke down in practice and didn't give me anywhere to go. Switched to the Yeah Baby Solid in Frame 6, but not much better luck.
9 /, 8 /, 9 /, 8 1, 9 /, 7 -, 8 /, 8 /, 8 /, 8 / X.

The YBS was a disaster. Switched to the Special Ops after frame 5...obviously not much improvement.
8 1, 6 2, 7 /, X, 8 1, X, X, 7 2, 8 1, 7 / 8.

Switched to the Pyramid Force Pearl after 5 frames. But, I was moving so far inside by that point that I was playing a line I'm just not successful playing.
X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 7 /, X, 9 /, 8 /, 8 1, X 9 /.

Normally the 4th game is my game...but not when I'm standing 14-16 boards left of center and targeting 17-19. Not even the Force Pearl can save me when I'm in that dead man's land.
7 -, X, X, 7 2, 6 /, 6 /, 6 2, 7 2, X, 7 2.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.26 pins
Strikes: 23%
Spares: 59% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (8/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 7-pin and 9-pin (2x each)
Never left a single 1-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 45% (11/24)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (4x)

Splits: 12% (1/8)

Average over 3 games: 157.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a.

I always say that...no matter what happens...I'll never be mad about my performance if I shoot 100% at single-pins. Well, tonight I'm a liar. :mad:

I lost every point to a bowler with 1 pin less average than me. It wasn't even close. It was embarrassing. I left 8 splits. I NEVER figured out a line in FOUR games! I was going through the nose constantly (thus the splits)...yet every time I'd move in...I'd go through the nose again...until finally I was SO far inside...that I'd leave a washout.

I tried vertical targeting changes...I wasn't afraid to move inside and challenge my comfort zone...I used every ball in my bag. Meanwhile...I watched a team of old timers get weak strike after weak strike...ball up and move right and make moves that made no sense...yet they'd carry on goofy nonsense.

Just an embarrassing night.

RobLV1

07-14-2021, 11:43 AM

boomer

07-14-2021, 03:13 PM

I actually enjoy bowling on house conditions. It can be a challenge so count it as such. When we practice (my wife and I) we get one game to play, to loosen up and for me to figure out what's kinda going on. She's much more casual so she just loosens up. I find it fun - I try the 'strike from each arrow" thing, which is challenging anyway, but even moreso.

Then we bring out a dice and work on spare shooting.

But I've had some really good scores on burnt up house conditions. Open your mind! :)

The ONLY time I've had zero enjoyment on house conditions was when there was SO LITTLE oil that my white-dot would hook off the lane when I lofted the left gutter. :O That was insane - and was actually burning the track on the balls so we left. That's the only time, though. Damage? No.

Aslan

07-14-2021, 10:08 PM

There are times that the lanes are so dry that getting your ball to hit as it enters the roll stage is just not possible. When that happens, you do what those old timers were doing, you let the ball roll out, hit light in the pocket, and mix up the pins. Often you'll leave three on the deck, but they all will go down.
The old timer that could really score...was doing what I was doing. He had moved inside with a polished ball and was really lofting it out there. He was just much, much better at the inside game than I was.

The other two guys...I mean, one of them was using a sanded Hyper Cell for crying out loud! He started out bowling around 11-12...then started leaving 10-pins...and he moved RIGHT! He started playing 7-8! And yes, he continued to leave 10-pins...but sometimes he'd strike. It was really, really *******g me off!! :mad:

In terms of encountering oil at the breakpoint making the ball skid too much, that just doesn't happen. What you think is skid, is actually the wiggle the indicates that the ball is burning up early. It won't get back to the pocket, but it's not because there's oil at the breakpoint.
If thats true...balling down should strike. And thats always my first thought. But, if you ball down..and it's STILL burning up too early...then what??

See...and you're going to cause me to put my head in a ball dehydrator...because you're going to say I need to move inside. But...I already did that. I moved inside because the ball went through the nose or left a 4-pin. THEN, it hit weak. So, I balled down. IF that strikes...we're all good...no problem. But, if it still is hitting weak...either you have carry down...OR...you need to move RIGHT because the ball you balled down to isn't as aggressive as the last ball you threw.

Now, I assume carry down...I switch to a skid/flip with an aggressive core...I usually have good luck. You're going to tell me thats wrong. You're going to want me to move inside and change my hand position and lower my speed and maybe even ball Up. But I can't do all that! I can't stand left of 30 and target left of 20. The balls just don't come back. I don't have the hand and my speed is too high. I can move up in the approach and try to drop my speed...but I haven't found a way to drop it low enough to make that line work. Not at 12-14mph...and I can't seem to get lower than that.

I assume you are still a speed dominant bowler, as indicated by the ridiculous amount of surface you put on so many of your bowling balls. Of course, this is fine if you can't be bothered to notice if your ten pins are weak or ringing! No excuse for that!

Once again, I will repeat what I said before; your refusal to abandon you long-held misconceptions is killing your bowling!

Well, I'm not going to say you're wrong because you're smart and I suck at bowling so maybe you're right. <---- Rob's ringing endorsement of the day.

But, one thing that HAS been hurting my bowling recently is my arsenal selection. When I was throwing all polished, Pearl, 2.49RG balls...I did very well.

1. Radical Reaxx Pearl (4000 matte), Ebonite Innovate (2000/Step 3), Hammer Scandal Pearl (500 polished)

2. DV8 Thug Life (1000 matte), Ebonite Warning Sign (2000 matte), Hammer Scandal Pearl (360/Step 1/polished)

Those two arsenals worked well and were very similar. The first ball was a 2.49RG ball with 0.052-0.054 diff. Then, I'd ball down to a weaker Ebonite ball with a 2.49 RG and 0.041 diff. Then, switch to the symmetric core Scandal Pearl. All these balls essentially had the same 2.49 RG. All were pearl coverstocks except the Warning Sign. It was just a matter of finding a good line with the stronger Radical or DV8 ball...then balling down to the weaker Ebonite ball...then going to the Scandal Pearl...I say to battle carry down or you can say to ball down again because of the polished surface.

SINCE THEN...I've had two problematic arsenals:

3. DV8 Grudge Hybrid (4000 matte), Brunswick Aura Mystic (2000/R. Compound), Brunswick Fortera Exile (500/R. Compound/polished).

4. Storm Optimus Solid (1000 matte), Lane Master's Yeah Baby Sinful (800 matte), 900 Global Special Ops (Step 1/Step 2/Step 3/polished), Pyramid Force Pearl (500/Step 1/polished)

The problem with the Grudge Hybrid and Aura Mystic was they were essentially the same ball with the same specs...except the Grudge Hybrid was newer and a "little" stronger. Unfortunately, most THS houses I bowled at, I couldn't find a line to play with the Grudge...so I'd end up bowling 2 games with the Mystic before switching to the Exile. The Exile did well, but I didn't have that nice 3-ball situation I had before.

And with #4 (current arsenal)...I'm completely lost. :( The Optimus Solid was supposed to give me a ball that would allow me to move a little more inside and play more in the oil...it has not. I tried to add some surface to it...and all that has done is seemingly cause it to burn up in practice.

The YBS is a joke. A solid cover on a ball with a 2.62 RG! To put that in perspective...my Slingshot had a 2.59RG and my Track 300A had a 2.58RG...and they were essentially glorified spare balls. This YBS just goes straight...and doesn't move. I guess if there is oil in front of the pin deck...maybe the solid cover is supposed to do something? I mean, what's the point of a solid cover on a high RG ball? It's stupid. I end up having to move right to use this ball...because I can't play near the line of the Optimus Solid...and adding surface to the YBS has made it even more useless than it was before.

The Special Ops...biggest disappointment in my bag!! With a bullet! The guys on Lakeside Reviews couldn't stop talking about how great this ball is...what a joke! This ball doesn't move at all...unless you get too much hand into it...then it moves too much and goes through the nose and leaves wonderful splits. This ball hits like a hamster ball. Unpredictable.

The Force Pearl is the only ball that has done well...but thats mostly because it's essentially the same as the Fortera Exile I threw well before. The only thing that annoys me is...I tried to "tweek" the performance just a little bit by changing the surface...and it hasn't hit as well since. So, back to the 500/Step 1/polish...because the 1000/polished was a mistake.

So, I don't know. I didn't have high hopes for this arsenal...it was kind've the last of the "closet of destiny"...and it looks like I may have been right. At this point, I'd just like to figure out the surfaces enough to make it through the fall season without have to make a major investment in replacement equipment.

RobLV1

07-15-2021, 07:07 AM

Let's look at this logically. Most house shots are oiled from 10 to 10. To the right of ten starts out dry. Most bowlers play the oil line around 10. Every reactive ball that goes down the lane sucks up oil. The line dries up. Why would you ever move back to more dry? Answer: YOU WOULDN'T! I told this to one of my teammates. He later told me that he thought I was nuts. He used to average about 205. One day he decided (for whatever reason) to try my nutty suggestion. Today he averages about 225. Balling down is not used instead of lateral adjustments. Ball changes are used in conjunction with lateral adjustments. Personally, the ball change that I use the most today is balling up as I get so far left that I can't get the weaker ball back. I'm averaging higher than I have in the last 15-20 years. Let go of your tired, outdated preconceptions and improve. You don't suck at bowling... you're just one of the most stubborn students I've ever tried to help!

Aslan

07-17-2021, 02:51 PM

Why would you ever move back to more dry?

I don't think you ever would "move right". I know some bowlers still push for times when you would do that. I've "heard' their reasons have to do with a theory that even modern bowling balls don't suck up "all" of the oil and actually "push" some oil around...pushing it to the left and to the right. Thus, some oil does get pushed to the right and create a condition where moving right makes sense.

I'm not "keen" on that philosophy. Seems like even if there is some truth to it...even IF...:

1) It wouldn't be a noticeable amount and would disappear quickly...leading you right back into an unpredictable dry area.

2) It'd only 'theoretically' work if you were out there alone. If anyone is right of you...any oil you've "pushed" over there is just being sucked up by them.

Now, is "balling down and trying to stay in an area" the same as "moving right"? I'd contend it is not. It sounds like you are equating the two.

I look at bowling balls kinda like car tires. As you move left, conditions get oily...just like a road getting icy. If you start with your strongest ball...you keep moving left...as you do the ice melts a little...but eventually you get to a point where the the road is just too icy (even with the melting) for the tires (ball) you have. But, moving right, as you and I agree, is never a good option. Sooooo??

You seem to have stronger tires...that for some reason you weren't previously using...and decide to put them on the car and this allows you to continue to move left. No problem with that. I'd have started with the strongest so I could get left of everyone I could...but to each their own.

For me, I simply put on tires that are a little weaker (less traction)...which allows me to play the most aggressive line possible...yet still retain the most energy possible. But, as you stay in that area (of the road)...the ice is going to continue to melt (oil continue to disappear)...thus you eventually are going to possibly need to move left a little and probably again need to put on tires that are a little weaker (less traction).

By using my strategy, I never "move right" as a tactic. I simply find a line that works and then use my arsenal in a way that tries to maximize carry. The only 'asterisk' to that is when a ball change isn't perfect. And this happens when you don't have an ideal arsenal. Sometimes changing to a ball that is quite a bit weaker than 'ideal'..you need to change your line right or change your vertical targeting, or straighten out your line...because balling down is too drastic of a drop from where you were at. Essentially, you switched to tires with far too little traction.

So, adjust right? No...not a fan. But, I think most centers use a THS and most bowlers have a comfortable style that allows them to play a certain area given their speed and ability to put RPMs on the ball. And one can either accept that and try to maximize it. Or, one can try to make changes to their game that allow them to play more of a range. However...how to "teach" an elderly/injured bowler to develop more speed I think is nearly impossible. And trying to develop more revs for a bowler...thats a tough road...takes a long time. Most coaches tend to work on a bowler's stance, approach, timing, repeatability, accuracy...and THEN...work on things like increasing RPMs. I don't think my training ever got that far so I don't know what a bowler can do to increase RPMs. I only got to the stage of trying to throw a more relaxed shot...which supposedly helps with rpms and ball movement.

RobLV1

07-18-2021, 10:35 AM

"Now, is "balling down and trying to stay in an area" the same as "moving right"? I'd contend it is not. It sounds like you are equating the two."

I'm not saying that they are the same thing. They do, however, have one major thing in common... neither one works!

Aslan

07-21-2021, 12:56 AM

Now, to confuse things further...I'll post scores that show the opposite of everything I've been complaining about for the last week....because; that's bowling!

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 12

865 Series: 201 (clean)-246 (clean)-210-208 (clean)

In practice I kinda got the impression maybe I needed to move right of where I was trying to play rather than left. Last week I thought the ball was burning up...so I moved left, hit week, thought it was burning up, moved left, hit week, thought it was burning up, moved left, etc... Pretty soon I was way too far inside. So, this time I started out by moving 1:2 right...and making sure I projected the ball out vertically. The results were good, but I really felt like it still wasn't the best fit...so I switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful in frame 6.
X, 8 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, 9 /, 8 /, 9 /, X, X 8 -.

The YBS was working, as long as I projected it vertically. I was planning on just using it to get me by for 5 frames...but when you have the front 5, it's kinda hard to make a switch. I finally made a bad shot in the 7th and decided to make a move and a ball change in the 9th.
X, X, X, X, X, X, 7 /, 9 /, X, 8 / X.

The Special Ops was actually hitting very hard. I just was battling a combination of lane conditions that were changing and just making bad shots.
6 -, 8 /, X, 9 /, X, X, 8 1, X, X, X X 8.

Stuck with the Special Ops because it was working well. When I finally switched to the Force Pearl, it worked well...the lanes were just transitioning fast at that point and it was hard to stay ahead of it.
9 /, X, 8 /, X, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, X 9 /.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.22 pins
Strikes: 53%
Spares: 85% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (10/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 4-pin (4x)
Also left a single 5-pin, 6-pin, and 10-pin (2x each).

Multiple Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6 and 6-10 (2x each)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 4 games: 216.25.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a.

On the negative side, I actually lost 3 out of 4 of my head-to-head games and my scratch series to a kid that averaged about what I do and shot a 905 series. I scored a 246...he scored a 256. I scored a 210...he scored a 218. Etc...

On the positive side, obviously;

- I made my spares...second straight week of 100% on single-pin spares.
- Highest series this season...65 pins higher than my previous high.
- Almost had a 'clean 40'.

boomer

07-21-2021, 10:18 AM

Does dropping a pin in the fill frame count to lose a clean game? :)

Aslan

07-21-2021, 11:27 AM

Does dropping a pin in the fill frame count to lose a clean game? :)

I'm sure Bowl1820 can pull up the official rule, but I believe once you have the mark in the 10th, any fill shots don't matter. So, technically a X - - is still a clean frame...all be it a horrible one. I imagine X X 9 is a very common ending to a LOT of clean games.

Now, just to add some more commentary in Rob and my debate/discussion and how last night fits into the discussion:

There were actually a couple things to take note of last night that I 'think' would validate some of RobM's teachings/points. For example;

1) Much of my struggle last week seemed to be "preconceived notions" that I brought with me to the center. I was sure that what I was leaving was based on over-surfaced equipment and that I therefore had to either adjust my line vertically or move inside and lower my speed. It never occurred to me that there may just me more oil on the lane, or a wider pattern, or perhaps some type of environmental factor causing the lanes to play slicker or thicker. I didn't even "try" to move right when I was in practice...because everything was working in practice!

Now, Rob and I don't disagree on preconceived notions in theory...we tend to disagree in 'practice'. I simply believe a prepared bowler must have some preconceived notions...even at the risk of occasionally (as I was last week) having those preconceptions being wrong. The risk of having NO preconceptions is what I sometimes refer to as the "RobM Chaos Theory" where we just close our eyes, grab a random ball from a choice of every ball available, stand in a random place on the approach, and start rolling dice and flipping coins to see how many steps we'll take and what release we'll use. And hopefully, we'll make a perfect shot every shot in practice...and we can limit the 1,944 combinations down to the combination we'll need that night...at least to start with.

But, in THEORY...Rob and I are in agreement. My refusal to even "consider" that the line I was playing might not be correct...or that the reason I wasn't hitting strong might be due to the line and not the surface...those presumptions early on last week...when using a progression method...leads to a cascade of failure. One mistake compounds into another and into another. I keep getting deeper and deeper...making worse and worse ball changes...but thinking I'm making better ball changes. It's like a plane adjusting altitude based on a faulty reading. The more I adjusted based on the wrong input, the worse it got.

2) Rob often touts moving inside. And yes, it gets old. But, if you look at what happened to me tonight...as good as my scores were...I LOST 4 out of 5 points and my team LOST 11 out of 21. And that was largely due to something RobM would have warned me against. What you ask?

Well, it's a 3-man league...one bowler on each team was a lefty...so we can ignore them because lefties are ignorable.

Me and my anchor are both speed-dominant bowlers and we both play right around the 8-board...up and in. Our opponents...mine and his...were higher rev...Rev-dominant bowlers. His opponent was a cranker that was standing well left and playing the 11-board. My opponent was a 2-hander standing fairly left of us and playing the 10-15 area.

Why this is significant is...and I 'think' Rob will agree...is that our (RH) opponents had their lines essentially to themselves. Meanwhile, me and my opponent were on top of one another all night. Now, it was just the two of us and I adjusted as needed...but still.

By the time I got to the 10-11 area...I ran into their anchor's line...which meant I had to adjust even more. By then, their anchor was struggling...partly because I was starting to mess with his line and partly because he was running into his teammate's line.

Meanwhile, MY opponent...the guy that shot a 905...despite having an average not much higher than mine...he never had anyone near him the whole night. He struggled in Game 1 trying to find his line...but once he was dialed in...it was something like 256-218-249. His only limitation was if he made a bad shot and his hit or miss spare shooting when he switched to one-handed to pick up corner-pins. Nobody ever got out to the 13-board...so he really had his area to himself the whole night.

Now again, the disagreement between RobM and I isn't in theory...it's in practice. I recognize that my inability to move inside is a limitation. Just like my inability to shoot single-pins at 95% is a limitation. I have LOTS of bowling limitations. I just don't know how to solve that limitation without drastically changing my game...and potentially destroying it. Like, I think I could strike more if I switch to 2-handed bowling...and maybe it'd be easier on my knee. But, do I wanna make that change now? In 2014 I didn't even really know how to bowl properly at all. Now I'm averaging in the 180s and doing pretty good. Do I stay the course and try to get to that next level? Or do I tear it down and start over?

As a speed-dominant bowler, moving inside is really tough. Trying to develop an outside game (2-4 board) is difficult because of the accuracy...but at the end of the day it's really just about accuracy. Developing an inside game is harder. For example:

A) Some people teach that you walk straight but open your shoulder to give you angle. Others teach that you walk towards your target.

B) Once you get far enough inside, some people have said that you need to change you target...the simple 1:2, 1:1, 2:3...doesn't work anymore or you end up throwing the ball in the gutter. Your target has to move inwards or become an area downline.

C) Once you get inside, many have mentioned have to reduce speed..especially for speed-dominant bowlers with speed-dominant arsenals to try and get that ball to hit the pocket properly.

So, the move inside, at least from my recent attempts...has not been simple. I started working on it with a couple coaches back in 2017...but there were so many things in my basic game that needed attention...it was kinda like trying to learn how to drive a bus when I still needed to learn how to drive a car.

So, it's not that I'm not open to the idea...and I understand the value of range...and I understand the modern bowling value of being inside...it's just not a skill that easy for a speed-dominant bowler...especially an inexperienced one like me...to pick up.

I remember when I first started bowling in 2014, on wood lanes. I was lofting the fronts...lofting the ball a good 10-15ft. When I switched to synthetics, I was averaging < 140. Rob might remember that, because he had to teach me to "roll" the ball. It sounds stupid now...but I had to actually learn how to "roll" the ball; not "throw" the ball...because the ball doesn't hook in the air. And on synthetic lanes...that ball wouldn't land and hook like it did on those old wood lanes. It just landed and skidded straight.

So, Rob may think I'm arguing with him sometimes...but I'm really not. I often take his advice (or at the very least consider it) when I'm bowling. It doesn't always work...but thats 50/50 because I'm not a good bowler. The key is trying to get Rob's 'theories' into 'practice'. Thats what I work on. I've used a LOT of his bowling ball knowledge over the years to help me understand how balls differ and do what they do. It amazes me how few bowlers know anything about bowling balls. But, a lot of the other stuff is still a work in progress. And yes, things like 'preconceived notions' and 'not being able to move inside of my opponent' DO actually bite me in the booty on certain league nights...as evident this week and last.

Aslan

07-28-2021, 08:57 PM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 13

806 Series: 242 (clean)-161-164-239

Had to make some adjustments in practice, but then ended up with a decent line. Switched to the YBS in frame 6. Made 3 bad shots, and didn't strike 3 times...so I guess the difference between a perfect game and a non-perfect game is making perfect shots every time...or at least not making 'bad' shots.
X, X, X, X, 9 /, 7 /, X, X, 6 /, X X X.

The usual problem with the YBS is that when you usually lose the line...it's GONE...and there's nowhere to go and nothing you can do. Switched to the SpecialOps in frame 6...but the new, polished surface I put on it didn't seem to be helping much. And, obviously missing my first two single-pins in 3 weeks didn't help. Lost to my opponent by two points.
8 1, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 8 1, 9 -, 9 -, X 7 /.

The Special Ops was brutally bad. I switched to the Pyramid Force Pearl in frame 6...but the lanes had transitioned and I needed to make a slight adjustment to move inside. Two of the 3 opens were splits.
X, 7 -, 5 4, 7 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, 8 /, 6 2, X X 9.

Things came together in Game 4. I made 3 mistakes...but this time one of the mistakes struck brooklyn...so 3 mistakes cost me a perfect game again. A slightly lower score than Game 1 due to the open in the 7th.
X, X, X, X, X, X, 6 1, X, 8 /, X X 9.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 53%
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 4-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (6/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 and 6-10 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 4 games: 201.50.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 206.75.

A couple games with 9 strikes...just need to eliminate those few mistakes.

Also need to figure out how to use the Lane Masters YBS and 900 Global Special Ops.

Seems to be some "potential" here...not able to put it together yet.

J Anderson

07-29-2021, 07:28 AM

Aslan

08-04-2021, 07:15 PM

Aslan, this is not 1980 when you had to hit your mark at exactly the right speed and just the right amount of lift and loft to get a strike. It’s 2021 and as the late Mo Pinel would say, bowling is all about standing in the right spot with the right ball for the lane you’re on. Forget about trying to be perfect. Watch what your ball does and adjust accordingly assuming you threw it “good enough”. When you’re practicing is when you want to focus on perfecting things so that all the elements of your physical game become automatic.
This might sound harsher than I intend, but when you use the word perfect three times in a post it seems like you might be too focused on trying to throw it perfectly. Nice bowling!

See, thats one of the things I've been wondering about lately. It seems like...for me...I DO have to bowl perfectly...or I don't strike. I don't have the "miss room" that others seem to enjoy. If I'm off a 'little'...it's a 10-pin. If my speed drops even a half mile per hour or I get just a little too much hand into the shot...I either leave a 4-pin or go through the nose. If I miss my target right...I leave a washout or 2-5. So, I almost have to be perfect every shot or I'm out.

J Anderson

08-04-2021, 07:42 PM

See, thats one of the things I've been wondering about lately. It seems like...for me...I DO have to bowl perfectly...or I don't strike. I don't have the "miss room" that others seem to enjoy. If I'm off a 'little'...it's a 10-pin. If my speed drops even a half mile per hour or I get just a little too much hand into the shot...I either leave a 4-pin or go through the nose. If I miss my target right...I leave a washout or 2-5. So, I almost have to be perfect every shot or I'm out.

I suffer a bit from this myself. Part is a mental carry over from the thirty years that I only bowled in one league where there were only trophies, no cash to be won, and throwing straight, carrying a 160 something average was respectable. The good side of this is that I don’t get upset when I leave a stone 8 pin. The bad part is that I probably tighten my swing way too much when I miss my mark.

The other part is that my physical game is still tuned more toward going parallel with the boards rather than swinging the ball out.

Aslan

08-04-2021, 08:03 PM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 14

732 Series: 173-190-201-168

I tried to reduce my speed to be able to use the Optimus Solid...but after 4 frames it was clear that ball was just NOT going to work...so I switched to the Yeah Baby Sinful a little earlier than I prefer to in a 4-game night.
X, 6 /, 7 2, 8 1, 8 /, 8 /, X, 9 /, X, 7 / X.

This game was more of the same. Not particularly good execution...but I made shots when I needed to and stayed ahead of my opponent who was struggling MIGHTILY tonight.
7 1, 3 /, X, 6 2, 3 /, X, X, 9 /, X, X 8 1.

Switched to the Special Ops in Frame 6. Still a frustrating and disappointing ball to throw. As mentioned in the previous post...the shot has to be perfect to strike...otherwise it's a 4-pin or a 10-pin. Another head-to-head win though...against an opponent that was getting QUITE frustrated at this point.
X, 9 /, X, X, 7 1, X, X, 9 /, X, 9 / 9.

Switched to the Force Pearl in Game 4 and was pretty confident that I'd finish with my first sweep of in quite awhile and my first sweep of a superior opponent (approximately +21 average). After such a strong night of spare shooting...and a perfect season shooting 9-pins...I missed 2 9-pins and then completely whiffed on a 6-10 in the 10th.
X, X, X, 6 3, X, 9 -, 8 /, X, 9 -, 8 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.65 pins
Strikes: 46%
Spares: 54% picked up

Single Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 4-pin and 9-pin (2x each).

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (7/15)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-3-4-5-7-8 and 6-10 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 4 games: 183.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 188.00.

Not a great night in that it was sub-800...no clean games...I missed TWO single 9-pins...and I had to really work just to pull out what I did.

On the other hand, I took 3 out of 4 head-to-head points and won total 732 to 731. About time I WIN by a point rather than LOSE by a point...which I think I've done 3 times this season.

One thing I've finally come to terms with is that the Special Ops is not the ball I thought it was. I kept thinking it was a stronger ball than the specs indicated because of all the hype and video reviews...but it simply isn't a very strong ball. It's taken me this long to trust the specs and accept that. Now that I accept that, I can comfortably throw it up the outside line and not worry it's going to over-react...and I'm not tempted to adjust my line to a more aggressive angle. Sometimes we hold onto an "idea" of what we want a ball to be, rather than what a ball IS.

Our team's goal wasn't to finish last. And with the 13 (of 21) points we got against a better team tonight...we almost certainly won't be finishing in last place.

J Anderson

08-05-2021, 07:14 AM

Aslan

08-11-2021, 02:23 PM

Sounds like you were on a tough pair. I think bowlers sometimes forget that it’s a game and the point is to beat your opponent, not hit your average or some other arbitrary number like 200. Looks like a good night from here, well except for the two missed single pin spares and the whiffed 6-10.

It's funny that you say that...because it's my least favorite pair and the pair I consistently do bad on. I try not to let that kinda stuff bother me...but there are two pair in that house that I dread bowling on...and that is the worst of the two.

The second worst...I got last night...

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 15 Position Round

781 Series: 140-190-184-267 (clean)

There's almost no point in posting Games 1-3. You can't win if you can't make single-pin spare conversions. This was pathetic and embarrassing. I won the point because I was bowling against someone scratch that I had +77 average against...but I nearly lost due to this nonsense. I mean, can I blame the humidity and having to switch to a #10 sliding sole? Maybe a "little"...because I definitely wasn't used to that and was sliding all over the place. But still. This cost me 43 pins! Unacceptable. :mad:
6 /, 8 /, X, 9 -, 9 -, X, 9 -, 8 -, 9 -, X 7 /.

This game was more of the same. Not AS bad. But, not 'good'. This is what happens when you CAN'T CARRY. You then HAVE TO convert spares. If I could carry, I wouldn't be forced to make spares. Or, if I was in the $&#^ no-tap league on the 2 lanes next to us...I could just count them as strikes...like a little girl or elderly person. But, nope...I gotta play "big boy bowling" and actually convert spares. Stupid "big boy" bowling. :mad:
X, X, X, 9 /, X, 9 -, 9 -, 9 /, 8 /, 7 / 9.

Carry was such an issue, that I had already switched to the Force Pearl at this point. I had no choice. The Optimus Solid was not even worth using after frame 1. The Spec Ops was the usual waste of time that it is. The only 'good' thing about this game is both multi-pin non-conversions were splits...so the only 'bad' open was the 10-pin in the 10th. At this point...missed single pins had cost me a MINIMUM of 68 pins. MINIMUM.
X, X, X, 8 /, 8 1, X, X, 7 -, 9 /, 9 -.

And...then the Force Pearl (or as I've nicknamed it...the "Grey Ball of Fire")...decided to give me ONE good game...
8 /, X, X, X, X, X, X, 9 /, X, X X 8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.11 pins
Strikes: 47%
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 36% (4/11)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (6x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 3-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 4 games: 195.25.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 214.25.

It was just a bad night from the beginning. It was CRAZY humid here yesterday...so my usual sole/heel combination didn't work. That meant a last minute change...which meant I needed to get used to a #10 sole with #8 heel edge...VERY slick. So, the first couple games I was trying to keep my horizontal stability under control while also trying not to slide over the foul line.

And, I just don't have a good arsenal right now. I'll go into more detail in another thread...but the hopes I had for this arsenal have so far this summer been a huge, huge disappointment. I think I'm gonna be stuck with this arsenal bowling even further outside than I have been with my previous arsenals...which is the opposite of what I was hoping for...which is to find a way to move inside and take advantage of more of the oil.

I tried to look at this 267 game versus my 268 game and my other 3 267 games...to see if there are any similarities...I couldn't find anything (other than this):

- None of my high games were Game #1.
- In none of my high games did I strike out in the 10th.
- In all of my high games, I struck in the 2nd through 7th frames.

- In 4 out of 5 of my high games, I was clean.
- In 4 out of 5 of my high games, I struck in the 8th frame.
- 4 out of 5 of my high games were 267s. The other was a 268.

- In most of my high games, my first shot in the 10th was not a strike.
- Most of my high games were Game #2 of 3.
- Most of my high games I did not strike in the 1st frame.
- Most of my high games were bowled in California.
- Most of my high games were during Spring/Summer season.

All 5 were different bowling balls:
- 10/22/2015, Brunswick Lethal Revolver, AMF Carter Lanes, Fullerton CA
- 10/28/2016, Radical Reax Pearl, Linbrook Bowling Center, Anaheim CA
- 4/21/2017, Hammer Scandal Pearl, Linbrook Bowling Center, Anaheim CA
- 5/15/2019, Ebonite Warning Sign, Great Escape Bowling Center, Pleasant Hill IA
- 8/10/2021, Pyramid Force Pearl, Great Escape Bowling Center, Pleasant Hill IA

Aslan

08-19-2021, 02:06 PM

Tuesday Pepsi Master's Trios: THS

Week 16 Final Night

610 Series: 168-122-170-150

A split to start, 2 for 3 on single-pins, and a split in the 10th.
7 -, 9 /, X, X, 7 /, X, 9 -, 7 /, 9 /, 8 1.

This time I was an impressive 1 for 4 on single-pins. :mad: Another open in the 10th.
X, 7 /, 9 -, 9 -, 9 /, 6 3, 9 -, 8 1, X, 6 -.

And ANOTHER open in the 10th...
9 /, 8 /, X, X, 6 /, 7 -, X, X, 7 1, 6 3.

And 2 for 4 on single-pins...but at least I finally marked in the 10th!
X, 7 1, X, X, 9 -, 9 /, 9 -, 9 /, 6 -, 7 / 7.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.41 pins
Strikes: 25%
Spares: 42% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (6/12)
Most common single-pin leaves: 4-pin and 10-pin (3x each)
Never left a single 2-pin, 3-pin, 6-pin (2x), and 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 37% (6/16)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 (3x)

Splits: 20% (1/5)

Average over 4 games: 152.50.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 167.75.

It was hot, humid...my team didn't show up...it was the last night (fun night) so nobody cared...and I just couldn't get anything to work.

I tried to move in and lower my speed...but when I move in...I leave 2-pin combos. This is the frustration that is at the core of my arguments with Rob over progressions and what not. He stubbornly insists that bowlers watch the balls, the reactions, and move inside to take advantage of the oil to attain carry by preserving the power. In other words...not bowling out in that track and having the energy get sucked out of you bowling balls as the balls interact with the lane surface. And I get that...I totally understand the science behind what he is saying.

It's the EXECUTION...it's the "putting into practice" what he preaches...the "pen to paper" where everything falls apart. I can't move in...the bowling balls will leave 2-pin combos. That means they are not aligned with the pocket when you factor in my speed and RPMs. It has nothing to do with humidity, bird migrations, topography, radon, or the mating habits of elmwood beetles. If I move in and am leaving 2-pins...I am too far in for that ball...my hand...my speed.

So, what can I change?
- Do I have a stronger ball? Nope.
- Do I have more hand? Nope.
- Can I slow the ball down? Maybe...if I want to risk screwing up my timing AND lose the only physical advantage I have over the older bowlers; i.e. speed.

Instead, I've tried to "surface my way" to success...thinking maybe if I can drop the surface down...I can move inside and the bowling balls will move early enough to compensate for my speed/hand. Well, that didn't work. Surface is a big factor...but it's not a 2-5 board factor. And to make matters worse...surface actually worsens the problem if you're out in the dry...because it sucks even more energy out of the ball than previously...so you're hitting even weaker than before.

So...I don't know. I'm gonna have to fix the surface on the Optimus Solid...bring it back to 2000 and see if I can slow my feet down. Speed is the only thing I can change if I want to move inside. And this arsenal is garbage playing 5-7. I can't spend the entire fall season shooting 25-35% strikes. If this doesn't get better, I'll need to experiment with unretiring some balls that I know worked well in the past and give up prematurely on these experiments. I hate to give up on balls without a coach looking at my game and agreeing that its the ball and not something I'm doing though. When I gave up on the Asylum and Defiant Edge...I had a coach looking at me throwing those balls and telling me they weren't working for me. Now I don't have that.

I was hoping to head into the fall on a high note...fixing my spare issues...maybe even hit a 190 average. Instead, I'm limping in with a 188 and a sub-50% single-pin spare conversion the last couple games...with an arsenal I have very little confidence in.

Aslan

08-25-2021, 03:25 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 1

569 Series: 211-180-178

Throwing the old Mystic felt good. I was considering starting off with the Optimus Solid...but glad I didn't. Unfortunately, I made a couple bad shots later in the game that killed an otherwise great start to the season. X, X, X, X, X, 8 -, X, 6 /, 9 -, 9 / 9.

Game 2 I stuck with the hot hand, but the lanes were transitioning like mad. I think I ran right into my other players' lines making things even worse.
8 -, 8 /, 8 /, X, X, 9 /, 8 /, 8 1, X, 8 / X.

Was thinking carry down might start being an issue...besides, it's never a 'bad time' to bring out the red ball of fire. Unfortunately, you need to actually make good shots...and I was bowling like garbage...pulling shots, pushing shots, my thumb sticking...just miserable. Not even the Exile could help me. Thank Christ I only had one open to salvage the 178. 9 /, X, 6 /, 9 /, X, 7 1, 7 /, 3 /, X, 9 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 42%
Spares: 72% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a.
Only left a single 3-pin, 7-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 66% (8/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 100% (2/2)

Average over 3 games: 189.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 193.33.

Not a bad night, not a good night.

I'm happy that the arsenal looks better than what I was throwing.

However, my execution was off. The Mystic was so good, that I ended up using it for almost all of Game 2 and never got many shots with the Optimus Solid before switching to the Exile. So, no good data on how the new surface on the Optimus is going to work with the Optimus as a "ball down" option...and didn't get to use the Force Pearl at all...which is a bummer because that ball has really worked well for me over the summer.

Don Breeden (PBA50) shot a 300-game to open the season...second time he's done that...he did that last year in this league. And it probably won't be his last one this season...he's good for a couple a year. And, our team...as returning champions...certainly have a target on your backs...so, gonna be an interesting season!

Aslan

09-01-2021, 03:55 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 2

538 Series: 190-181-167

Wasn't making good shots. Switched to the Optimus Solid a little earlier (frame 8) than last week, but it didn't really help. Can't score well if ya can't run strikes together. 6 3, X, X, 7 1, 9 /, X, 7 /, 9 /, X, X 9 /.

After 3 straight weak hits resulting in 9-counts, I decided to give the Force Pearl a try. But, even the Force Pearl was deflecting. I made a good decision to switch to the Exile in the 10th and struck out to salvage the 181. 9 /, 9 /, 9 -, 8 /, 7 2, 9 /, 9 -, 8 /, X, XXX.

Put my faith in the Exile to turn things around, but was just not making good shots. Had a chance to salvage a 200-game if I could strike out again in the 10th, but I left another 10-pin and missed it for the 3rd time that evening. :mad: 8 /, 9 /, 7 /, X, 6 3, 9 /, 7 2, X, X, 9 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.79 pins
Strikes: 36%
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin.
Also left a single 3-pin (2x), 4-pin, and 5-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 179.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 190.00.

CAN'T go 50% on 10-pins!! CANNOT...go 50% on 10-pins!!

That is ridiculous! :(

Aslan

09-03-2021, 06:47 AM

County Wide Boys: THS
New Synthetic Over Old Wood Lanes

476 Series: 187-134-155

Was hoping to sub in this league this fall. Was surprised to get a call on opening night. This is a unique house. It's a 12-lane center, so rather small for what I'm used to. The scoring equipment is very old and the cameras don't work very well. It was wood lanes right up until recently (this summer) when they put synthetics over the wood lanes. The pins seem 'old' so they carry "funny".

I always seem to bowl better when I sub...because I feel "obligated" to bowl better when I'm essentially being relied on to help a team out. Plus, you want to impress that team and other teams so they'll ask you to sub for them in the future.

Game 1, I felt great up until the 8th frame. Then, I lost my line. And, I couldn't get that line back until about the 5th frame of Game 2.
X, X, 7 /, X, X, X, 8 /, 8 - 5 2, 9 -.

Switched to the Optimus Solid because my move inside with the Aura Mystic was leaving me weak hits...but I moved right to adjust for the difference (usual) between the two balls. Well, that move I estimated to be a 2:4 right and it really just needed to be a 1-board targeting change. But, it took me 4 frames to figure that out. By the time I figured it out, the lanes were transitioning and I had run into my partners' tracks. 9 /, 8 -, 3 5, 6 2, X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 7 1, 5 4.

Switched to the Fortera Exile in the 2nd frame. Had to REALLY move inside. I was playing 17 and standing about 29...whcih is a really, really tight line for me. Not much room for error. 9 -, 8 /, 7 /, 7 2, 7 /, X, 8 /, X, 9 -, 6 / 5.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.00 pins
Strikes: 25%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 57% (4/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 9-pin (3x)
Also left single 3-pin, 4-pin, and 10-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 46% (7/15)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 and 6-9-10 (2x each).

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 158.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 168.00.

It was a disappointing night...from a score standpoint. But, I was asked to sub for the team the week after next so hopefully I can get things figured out.

Need to find my line, need to figure out my adjustments, and I MUST be able to pick up a 10-pin. Was 0-2 tonight and 0-3 on corner pins. Gotta figure that out or I'm gonna have no choice but to get coaching. I can't be a sub-75% single-pin spare shooter.

J Anderson

09-03-2021, 08:34 AM

County Wide Boys: THS
New Synthetic Over Old Wood Lanes

Need to find my line, need to figure out my adjustments, and I MUST be able to pick up a 10-pin. Was 0-2 tonight and 0-3 on corner pins. Gotta figure that out or I'm gonna have no choice but to get coaching. I can't be a sub-75% single-pin spare shooter.

Do you have the time/money to practice? I know I don’t have to tell you there’s a huge difference between practicing and just bowling a lot of games. If you can get some practice in here are some of my thoughts on spare shooting.

Figure out a system that works for you, and then write it down.

On corner pins it looks really cool to pick just the ten or the seven off the rack. Your system, assuming it involves throwing straight at the corners, should not result in a clean pick on a perfect shot. If you hit your target practicing with a full set of pins the ball should catch a piece of the 6 pin or the four pin when you roll over your target. Gives you a bit of room to miss right without going in the gutter.

I like Low Ball for practicing corners but given that I’m trying to clip the 6 or 4 each time I’m shooting for a score of about 60.

I also like the 5 ball drill. This gives you at least 80% spare shooting and rewards you with a chance to throw a strike every time you successfully complete the first 4 shots.

Aslan

09-12-2021, 03:35 PM

Do you have the time/money to practice? I know I don’t have to tell you there’s a huge difference between practicing and just bowling a lot of games. If you can get some practice in here are some of my thoughts on spare shooting.

Usually, if I'm having a bad 3-4 weeks of single-pin spare shooting...I'll reserve time after the night is over to practice. And I also usually play low-ball...just purely trying to hit those corner pins.

My "plan" is fine...it's my execution. It's kinda like when you hit a golf ball and it flies over into the woods and the people you are golfing with say, "you actually hit it exactly where you were aiming." It's the same thing with my single-pins. All I need to do is throw the ball straight at the pin. The ball isn't moving and pin isn't moving. Either I miss my target due to bad concentration or I hit my target and still miss because I'm "lined up wrong". Usually it's the second one.

I tend to miss inside...which makes me think that I am lining up right but then squaring my shoulders at the foul line. So, I'm walking towards the target...everything is lined up...and then just as I throw...I'm turning my shoulders. The other likely scenario is that I am lined up wrong. So, I'm throwing it straight...hitting my target...but my line is off and I don't realize it. That used to happen quite a bit when I was receiving coaching. My coach would have to "correct" my line even though I thought I was lined up properly.

And it's REALLY frustrating...because I REALLY worked on this over the summer and had a >5% improvement in single-pin conversion % over the summer.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 3

565 Series: 183-193-189

Same as last week and the week before. Started out with the Aura Mystic....switched to the Optimus Solid...but couldn't run any strikes together. Only opens were on splits...including the pocket 8-10 split that forced me to make the ball change. X, X, 9 /, X, 8 1, 8 -, X, 9 /, 8 /, X 9 /.

More of the same. I kept things clean, but couldn't carry. Only open was a missed 6-10 in the 6th frame. After moving left and leaving a 2-4-7, I decided it was time to pull out the Exile. X, X, 8 /, 9 /, 8 -, 7 /, 6 /, X, X 7 2.

A lot more carry with the Exile, but I opened the game with two splits and missed a 6-pin in the 5th to really put a wet blanket on the scoring.
8 -, 7 -, X, X, 9 -, 9 /, X, X, X, 7 / 9.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 42%
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 3-pin and 6-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 2-pin and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 188.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 192.00.

Take out my high and low game from the past 9 games to start the season and my seven games would all fall in the range of 178 to 193. I actually bowled better than usual because we were bowling the PBA50 pro and his team...and I usually bowl "up" to my competition. Just can't run those strikes together like you need to in order to get in the 200s.

J Anderson

09-12-2021, 07:21 PM

Usually, if I'm having a bad 3-4 weeks of single-pin spare shooting...I'll reserve time after the night is over to practice. And I also usually play low-ball...just purely trying to hit those corner pins.

My "plan" is fine...it's my execution. It's kinda like when you hit a golf ball and it flies over into the woods and the people you are golfing with say, "you actually hit it exactly where you were aiming." It's the same thing with my single-pins. All I need to do is throw the ball straight at the pin. The ball isn't moving and pin isn't moving. Either I miss my target due to bad concentration or I hit my target and still miss because I'm "lined up wrong". Usually it's the second one.

I tend to miss inside...which makes me think that I am lining up right but then squaring my shoulders at the foul line. So, I'm walking towards the target...everything is lined up...and then just as I throw...I'm turning my shoulders. The other likely scenario is that I am lined up wrong. So, I'm throwing it straight...hitting my target...but my line is off and I don't realize it. That used to happen quite a bit when I was receiving coaching. My coach would have to "correct" my line even though I thought I was lined up properly.

And it's REALLY frustrating...because I REALLY worked on this over the summer and had a >5% improvement in single-pin conversion % over the summer..
I would say that if if you are hitting your target and missing your single pin spares it’s the system.

However if it’s sort of random, sometimes it hits the pin - sometimes it doesn’t, there’s a fundamental flaw in your technique. It’s quite possible you are not sliding in the same place for each spare.

On the misses that you know were caused by missing your target to the inside there are a couple of possibilities. With me the most common cause is my feet getting ahead of the swing, I then try to force the swing to catch up. The result is never pretty. The other possibility is with the swing itself. We’ve had a number of kids who hold the ball too close to their center rather than being in line with their shoulder.

My suggestion for your next practice session is to write down where your slide foot winds up for every shot.

Aslan

09-15-2021, 02:23 PM

My suggestion for your next practice session is to write down where your slide foot winds up for every shot.

I'll have to remember to do that. Thanks.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 4

552 Series: 189 (clean)-160-203

Had to start with the Optimus Solid due to the Aura Mystic being cracked when I opened my bag. :eek: That meant some adjustments early on that I wasn't planning on.
X, 7 /, 8 /, 9 /, 8 /, X, 9 /, X, 9 /, 8 / 6.

Stuck with the Optimus Solid hoping I could see a bit more carry if my shots got a little better and I started to move inside a little. Unfortunately, the "cues" to move left usually result in some bad leaves. Couple that with my spare shooting failing me temporarily...and no bueno.
7 2, X, 9 -, X, 8 1, X, X, 8 1, 9 /, 9 / X.

Probably stayed with the Optimus a 'bit' too long, but finally made the move to the Fortera Exile in frame 3. A 1-2-9 washout in the 4th and 3-10 baby split in the 10th were my only opens.
9 /, 9 /, X, 7 2, 7 /, X, X, X, X, 8 1.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 40%
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (5x)
Also left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 184.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 188.00.

Felt good about Games 1 and 3. My spare shooting was above-average in Game 1 and I ran some strikes together in Game 3. Unfortunately, my inability to run many strikes together means I can't afford a 160-game. Any opens just kill ya when you're not carrying.

Have to come up with a new plan for Thursday after the loss of the Aura Mystic...but thats for another thread...

Aslan

09-17-2021, 03:54 AM

County Wide Boys: THS
New Synthetic Over Old Wood Lanes

The team I bowled for a couple weeks ago asked me to sub for them again.

535 Series: 157-179-199 (clean)

Very difficult first game as I tried to find a line with the Grudge Hybrid with the polished surface.
9 /, 7 /, 6 3, 9 /, 7 /, X, X, 9 /, 5 2, 7 -.

Switched to the Optimus Solid in the 3rd frame and opened my angle up a little. X, 6 -, 7 2, X, X, 9 /, X, 8 /, 9 /, X 9 /.

Switched to the Fortera Exile in the 4th frame. 8 /, X, 9 /, 8 /, 8 /, 9 /, 7 /, X, X, 7 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.53 pins
Strikes: 34%
Spares: 76% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (8/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Also left single 4-pin (2x), 6-pin (2x), and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 61% (8/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-8 and 6-9-10 (2x each).

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 178.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a

I 'was' a little disappointed that I couldn't get a good line going with the Grudge Hybrid. But, I always say that if I go 100% on single-pin conversions...it's a good night...so I'm going to say it was a good night despite the struggles with carry.

Aslan

09-22-2021, 12:31 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 5

652 Series: 226-222-204

Started out with the Grudge Hybrid with the new polished surface. Moved out about 1:2 right of normal to the 7-8 board after what I saw last Thursday. The 1:2 move right probably cost me a strike in frame 2 and should have only been about a 0:1 move right to strike in frame 1. The lanes started to transition in the 7th, but I made the adjustment and everything looked good from there on out.
9 -, 9 /, X, X, X, X 7 -, X, X, X X 6.

Made the move to the Optimus Solid in Frame 3. Struck on all 5 shots...but, the first couple were Brooklyn and the last two were extremely weak. So, I switched to the Exile in the 9th frame.
8 /, X, 6 1, X, X, X, X, X, 9 /, X 8 1.

Lanes were transitioning...but I was doing a decent job of staying ahead of things.
X, X, 8 /, X, 9 -, X, 8 1, 6 /, X, X X X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.23 pins
Strikes: 65%
Spares: 45% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (2/4)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Also left a single 4-pin, 6-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 217.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 224.67.

I told myself last week that from here on out...I was playing to win. So, from here on out...nothing but HIGH SCORES!!!

Really wanted a 700 series. But, it's kinda like me and golf. It usually takes me 3 shots to get to the fringe...then I need a 35 foot chip for par or a 25 foot putt for par. I never put myself in position where par is very realistic. Needing a 252 game isn't very "realistic". Even had I kept things clean I wouldn't have made it out of the 220s.

Timmyb

09-22-2021, 04:46 AM

Nice night!

Aslan

09-29-2021, 10:36 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 6

571 Series: 222-180-169

Started off on a bad note with a missed 10-pin. Had a 4-bagger before experiencing transition and made the move to the Optimus Solid in the 9th.
9 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, 9 -, 8 1, 6 /, X, X, 9 / 6.

Then it was a combination of bad shots and bad carry before I finally made the move to the Fortera Exile in the 6th. But, I had trouble finding my line. Adjusted a bit right when I should have just made a slight vertical adjustment...and made some bad shots = bad score.
9 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, 9 -, 8 1, 6 /, X, X, 9 / 6.

More inconsistent shooting...and a bad spare shot in the 9th.
9 /, X, X, 6 3, 9 -, 9 /, 9 /, X, 9 -, X 7 2.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 39%
Spares: 63% picked up

Single Pin spares: 69% (9/13)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (6x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 190.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 204.67.

Ughhh! Tough night from a carry stand-point. And spare shooting was only so-so.

Aslan

10-01-2021, 12:31 PM

County Wide Boys: THS
New Synthetic Over Old Wood Lanes

Once again asked to sub. After tonight, may never get asked to sub by any team in the 5-county wide area.

391 Series: 141-110-140

Same as last week. Struggled to find a line that worked. Tried a new approach to shooting single corner pins...didn't work.
8 -, X, 8 /, 8 1, 9 -, 8 1, X, - /, 9 -, 7 / X.

Switched to the Optimus Solid in the 10th frame of Game 1...thought that might be the answer. Nope! Worst game I've thrown in a LONG time!
X, 7 2, 9 -, 7 2, 9 /, 7 -, 7 2, 7 /, 6 -, 7 2.

Switched to the Fortera Exile. Still a disaster...just managed to pick up a few spares this time.
8 -, 9 /, 9 -, 6 /, 7 2, 7 /, 9 /, 8 /, 8 /, 6 1.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 7.74 pins
Strikes: 12%
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Also left single 2-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, and 9-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 40% (8/20)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2, 2-4-5, and 6-9-10 (2x each).

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 130.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 141.67.

There's nothing to say here that won't get me kicked off the site for foul language and profanity.

If I ever bowl like this again, the only "good thing" to come of it is that it's going to move me that much closer to either going to Camp Bakkes or to the IRTC in Arlington. I don't have the $4,000...but I'll start putting money away each month into an account...even if I have to just quit bowling and put the money I would spend bowling into the training fund. I figure it'll cost $3,965 for Camp Bakes and $3,970 for a few days of lessons down in Arlington at the ITRC. I could take 2 years off bowling leagues and put $40 a week in an account.

And THIS is why I argue so much with Rob about the inside line.

On a normal night...I start out aiming 8-board and standing about 18-19.
By the end of the night...5-man league...10 bowlers...I end up aiming 10-11 and standing 21-22.

Last night I started aiming 10-11 and standing 22-23.
By the end of the night, I was aiming 17-18 and standing 33-36.

And you see the results. I bowled like a kid off the street. You could have grabbed some 6-year old, rented em shoes, gave em a plastic dragon ramp and a 9lb house ball and they'd have probably struck the same 12%. And to make it worse...I did it as a SUB. ****ing the bed as a regular is one thing. But as a SUB...you're a gun for hire. And if your gun doesn't work...you may as well never come back. Nobody wants a guy with a 155 average stinking up their roster. :mad:

Cdolcejr

10-05-2021, 08:20 AM

County Wide Boys: THS
If I ever bowl like this again, the only "good thing" to come of it is that it's going to move me that much closer to either going to Camp Bakkes or to the IRTC in Arlington. I don't have the $4,000...but I'll start putting money away each month into an account...even if I have to just quit bowling and put the money I would spend bowling into the training fund. I figure it'll cost $3,965 for Camp Bakes and $3,970 for a few days of lessons down in Arlington at the ITRC. I could take 2 years off bowling leagues and put $40 a week in an account.

If you haven't already, there's a book and DVD by Mark Baker you can check out. I've bought both and it really helped me transform my game and become more consistent. Only thing is that it will take some time to change your game. It's not advised to work on more than one thing at the same time. The best part is you don't change your game completely, you just incorporate his findings into your game. It's a lot cheaper and you could improve your game in the 2 years you would stop bowling.

Book: The Game Changer
DVD: The System

Aslan

10-05-2021, 11:44 AM

If you haven't already, there's a book and DVD by Mark Baker you can check out. I've bought both and it really helped me transform my game and become more consistent. Only thing is that it will take some time to change your game. It's not advised to work on more than one thing at the same time. The best part is you don't change your game completely, you just incorporate his findings into your game. It's a lot cheaper and you could improve your game in the 2 years you would stop bowling.

Book: The Game Changer
DVD: The System

I have the DVD and took private lessons from Mark for over a year.

The only downside to the video is the need to videotape yourself.

I go to the point in the video where I needed to analyze my swing and my daughter came with me to video me...but she didn't stand in exactly the right places and it was dark in there. I couldn't see exactly what I was "supposed to" see. And then my laptop died and I could only afford this cheap replacement with no memory near what I'd need to analyze swing videos.

I was hoping, once finances settled down, to use The System as a sort of substitute for coaching but getting a good video camera and tripod and comparing my approach to the video. But, right now I went from having a no tripod, a decent camera, and a barely suitable computer...to no suitable computer, no tripod, and I lost my camera. So, I kinda went backwards. And that whole DVD is video dependent.

Once I find my camera, that'll be a start. I have NO IDEA where I put it. I stashed it somewhere out of the way and I remember thinking, "Now, remember where you put it...because otherwise you'll forget and won't be able to find it"...well, I was right. I'm due for an upgrade on my cell phone. If I upgrade the cell phone 'enough'...maybe I won't need to find the camera or get a better computer. I'll still need the tripod though. And I can't just get an old cheap one at Goodwill...I'll have to get one that holds a smartphone.

Aslan

10-06-2021, 12:16 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 7

657 Series: 245-254 (clean)-158

Strong first game, but nothing spectacular. To be honest, 2-3 strikes were Brooklyn.
X, X, 9 -, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, X X 9.

Best game in quite awhile. Had to deal with the pressure of the front 7 AND my teammates giving me **poo**; which was distracting. A couple of the strikes were Brooklyn and one was through the nose...so it wasn't perfect. I guess it was good that I left the 10-pin in the 9th because it allowed me to switch balls without facing what would have been a much tougher decision had it been a weak strike. But, the Optimus Solid barely carried the strike in the 10th as well.
X, X, X, X, X, X, X, 7 /, 9 /, X 8 -.

Switched to the Exile in Game 3. Figured I'd have a real good shot at my first 700 series with my best ball in my hand going into the Game 3.
9 -, 9 /, X, 9 /, 9 /, 8 1, 8 /, 7 /, 7 2, 9 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.29 pins
Strikes: 55%
Spares: 64% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (2x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, nor 8-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 219.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 226.33.

And there it is. A MASSIVE improvement over last Thursday...but...I can't get across that 700-game finish ;

SRB57

10-06-2021, 08:59 AM

Nice shooting except the last game. I would have had a hard time switching balls with 499 after 2. Still a decent night. Steve

Aslan

10-06-2021, 10:36 AM

Nice shooting except the last game. I would have had a hard time switching balls with 499 after 2. Still a decent night. Steve

Actually, I switched balls twice.

I switched to the Optimus after leaving a flat 10-pin in the 9th frame of Game 2. But, the strike in the 10th was weak...the Optimus deflected and barely carried it...so even though I pulled my second shot in the 10th (which told me nothing)...I decided it was time to get out the Exile to give me more pop on the backend. Normally the Exile comes out late in Game 2/early in Game 3 anyways...so it was probably time.

Had the Optimus carried better on that first strike...I'd have given it a shot in Game 3. That might have been the better play. It's hard to say. I actually made some bad shots in Game 3...so it wasn't all the ball's fault. I made more than a couple big misses right that barely made it back. And each time I got penalized pretty hard with things like a 5-10 and a 1-2-10.

By the time I adjusted due to running into some traffic around the and arrow...factor in 4-5 bad shots...2-3 frames of dealing with my own transition...it doesn't leave much for just settling in and making good shots. I have better third games when I make the switch late in Game 2 and can get a couple adjustments out of the way then.

And...the mental exhaustion was setting in...knowing I needed 201...knowing it was slipping away frame by frame. Then knowing I needed 191 to beat my high series...and watching that immediately disappear. The night went from me winning the high game side pot, getting the front 7, winning a second high game side pot...probably only the first or second time I've won 2 in one night.........then I'm sitting there with our team losing Game 3 and me with still no 700 series to my name nor even a 690. :mad:

Aslan

10-13-2021, 10:42 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 8

529 Series: 161-200-168

9 /, X, 8 /, 9 -, X, 8 1, X, X, 8 1, 7 2.

Thought I solved my problems with a ball change in frame 2...but; nope :( .
9 -, 8 1, X, X, X, X, 8 /, 8 1, X, X 8 1.

Switched to the Exile in frame 3 and put together a few strikes...but again lost my line.
6 3, 9 /, X, X, X, 8 1, 8 1, X, 7 /, 7 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.87 pins
Strikes: 45%
Spares: 29% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (2/4)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left a single 2-pin, 3-pin, 5-pin, and 6-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 23% (3/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2, 1-2-7, and 5-9.

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 176.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 183.33.

Just a horrible night. I knew it was going to a bad night in practice. I couldn't find my line. And, I literally couldn't find my line all night. I ended up moving left and continuing to move left...and as I've stated previously...once I get outside my comfort zone...there's nothing I can do.

Just a horrible night.

Aslan

10-20-2021, 10:45 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 9

536 Series: 133-184-219

Worst game of the season. Worst game in this league since my worst ever 115 back on 9/1/2020. No carry, bad spare shooting, opening in the 10th...that combination isn't good in bowling.
9 /, 8 -, 8 /, 9 -, 9 -, 8 -, 9 /, 6 /, X, 8 -.

Nearly a Dutch-200, but for a spare in the 3rd and being unable to pick-up a 6-10 in the 10th. :mad:
X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, 8 /, X, 8 /, X, 8 -.

Needed a 285 to salvage a 600-series. :rolleyes: I finally started making good shots in the 3rd game...but my line gave out in epic fashion in the 6th frame and stuck me with back-to-back splits...a 6-7 and a Big 4. I finally made a terrible shot in the 10th.
X, X, X, X, X, 8 1, 6 -, X, X, 9 / 8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.90 pins
Strikes: 38%
Spares: 55% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (3x)
Also left a single 3-pin (2x), 6-pin, and 7-pin (2x).

Multiple Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a.

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 178.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 185.33.

Another horrible night. I almost quit. If I hadn't recovered after the first game debacle...I was ready to be done for good. I don't know what I'm doing wrong...but something is off. My timing or something. And whatever it is...it's making my strike shot and spare shots "off" and making it nearly impossible to bowl a good game. Then, in Game 3...suddenly everything fell back into place...and I have the front 5....strike in 7 of 10 frames. No ball change tonight...stuck with the Optimus Solid from Frame 8 of Game 1 through the end.

Also not sure if I will make it all season from a health perspective. I am having an achilles issue on my non-sliding foot that is starting to cause a good deal of pain when bowling. Not sure why. I think it's the final step where that leg pushes the body forward . I've noticed a painful bump on the back of that Achilles for some time...but figured it was nothing to worry about. I have a similar bump on the back of my right (bowling) arm that is essentially painless and the doctor says is just a cyst from the frequent bowling.

But, recently, I've ended up limping by the end of Game 2. The bump 'may' just be a harmless cyst...or it 'may' be a sign that my Achilles is in danger of rupturing. And, if that happens...I'm out of commission for some time.

Aslan

10-28-2021, 09:53 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 10

463 Series: 191-118-154

First game wasn't too bad as I tried to forget the 133 I bowled 1st game last week. Just couldn't run more than two strikes together.
7 /, X, X, 8 1, X, X, 6 /, 8 1, X, X 3 6.

A new worst game of the season. Worst game in this league since my worst ever 115 back on 9/1/2020. Opened six out of ten frames. Not on corner pins...I was all over the place.
7 2, X, 9 /, 3 4, 7 1, 6 3, 9 /, 7 1, 8 -, X 7 2.

My team was disarray. They were annoying me. I had two opens on bad shots and two opens on missed single-pins. I finally made the move to the Exile in the 5th frame and things got better.
7 /, 5 4, 9 -, 6 -, 9 /, X, X, 7 /, 9 -, 9 /X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.06 pins
Strikes: 33%
Spares: 36% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (4/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 5-pin and 7-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 2-pin and 4-pin.

Makeable spares: 42% (8/19)
Multiple Pin spares: 30% (4/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 and 1-2-4-10 (2x each).

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 154.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 160.33.

I just can't figure things out. And my team is making things worse. The one guy who is usually disgruntled about his game threw a temper tantrum and smashed a piece of plastic (used to hold menus/advertisements) that was on our table. That prompted the team captain to get upset with him and the rest of the night was rather awkward.

And my teammate insists that I need to sand my bowling balls...even though I know that isn't the problem. But, it's kinda hard to argue with the best bowler on the team when I'm struggling so terribly. I almost feel like sanding every ball and proving him wrong. But, then he'll just say I didn't sand them to the right grit or something. At the end of the day...my scores will be horrible and I'll just be more annoyed.

Aslan

10-28-2021, 10:53 PM

County Wide Boys: THS
New Synthetic Over Old Wood Lanes

Once again asked to sub. After my last embarrassing performance, I figured I'd never get asked to sub by any team again.

478 Series: 185-156-137

First game wasn't bad. I just couldn't get lined up. But, the spares were mostly converted.
X, 9 /, 7 /, 9 /, 7 /, 7 /, 8 -, 8 /, X, X 9 /.

As I've said many times before...if you can't carry...you can't afford imperfection.
8 /, X, 8 1, X, X, 7 1, 9 /, 6 -, 9 /, 6 /7.

Switched to the Force Pearl in the 6th frame and did pretty well from that point. But, you can't miss 4 out of 5 single-pins. You just can't. :(
8 /, 6 2, 9 -, 9 -, 8 1, X, X, 9 /, 9 -, 9 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.47 pins
Strikes: 25%
Spares: 56% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (6/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, and 6-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 7-pin and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 59% (13/22)
Multiple Pin spares: 58% (7/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a.

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 159.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 173.00.

I think my bowling career is coming to a close.

After agreeing to sub tonight, I had a doctor's appointment for a bump on the back of my Achille's tendon. The doctor recommended I avoid physical activity such as running or bowling until I can get it looked at by a specialist. She is concerned that the tendon may rupture. It's been sore lately...usually by the 2nd game of the night...or if I take a long walk or go for a run. The soreness has now started creeping up my calf muscle. It's on my push away leg...so I thought it not a big concern...more worried about my knee on my sliding leg. Well, apparently the right leg does more than just balance me during my delivery...and that push away is putting a great deal of strain on that tendon and lower leg.

Late into Game 1 tonight, I bent a little further than I should have and "tweaked" my knee (left/sliding). This happens once in awhile...but this was significant enough to almost cause me to quit early. And, per the usual...into Game 2...the Achilles was hurting again. If I need surgery on that Achilles...I'm out of action for 5-7 months. Completely out of action.

And it's not just the injuries. I can't bowl. I'm not good at it. I almost got good at it when I was taking lessons 3x per month, practicing, and bowling in 2-3 leagues a week and every Saturday. But, I had to work hard to get good. I have no natural ability. And these last few weeks I've managed to fall from a 195+ average bowler with a potential 700 series on the horizon...to a 150s bowler that can't strike and can't make spares.

So, thats where I am now. A lot of Green in the numbers above...but thats mainly due to the horrible outing I had last time I subbed in this league.

Aslan

11-04-2021, 11:53 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 11

No scores to update. For the first time in my short bowling career, I had to "bow out" mid-game due to injury. After only 3 frames, I felt a "pop" in the back of my right calf. Not sure what happened. But, there was no way I could push off anymore.

I went to a foot specialist/orthopedist on Wednesday morning and he diagnosed it as achilles tendonopathy. This is pretty much what I thought it was. The good news is he said I can still bowl as I recover. I need to:

- Waer arch supports in both shoes.
- Use a heel riser in my right shoe.
- Transfer the supports and heel riser to my bowling shoes when I bowl and running shoes when I run.
- I need to stretch prior to these activities.
- I need to ice the Achilles after the activity.
- I have anti-inflammatories I need to take twice a day.

The positive is I can still try and be active. Without bowling, I don't have much physical activity. And I wanted to start running again to lose some weight...so at least I can do these things. The negatives are:

1. I'm not sure if the calf injury is directly related to the Achilles issue. It's possible that I pulled something in my calf...which means I have two injuries to that lower leg...and the treatments aren't likely to help with the second injury.

2. I already had shoes with decent arch supports in them. So, I'm really not very confident this type of treatment is going to be effective. I might end up needing Achilles surgery to actually repair and lengthen the tendon. And thats a painful surgery that you don't come back from for 5-7 months.

So, we'll see how it goes. Not sure if I'm gonna test the achilles/calf with a run this weekend or rest it until Tuesday and see how it feels when I bowl.

Timmyb

11-04-2021, 07:35 PM

Welcome to old age.....

J Anderson

11-04-2021, 08:37 PM

Sorry to hear about your injuries. One of my friends had a muscle tear in his calf last August two weeks before the end of the Summer Challenge league. He had just made it into first place, got one of the young hot shots from the pro shop to sub for him and finished in first. I think he was back bowling with a doctors ok after 4 or 5 weeks. I don’t know what his treatment entailed.

I hope you manage to recover completely.

boomer

11-08-2021, 12:31 PM

I fell ya, Aslan.

Take it easy and don't jump into things too quickly.

Aslan

11-10-2021, 02:17 AM

Welcome to old age.....

I fell ya, Aslan.

Take it easy and don't jump into things too quickly.

Sorry to hear about your injuries. One of my friends had a muscle tear in his calf last August two weeks before the end of the Summer Challenge league. He had just made it into first place, got one of the young hot shots from the pro shop to sub for him and finished in first. I think he was back bowling with a doctors ok after 4 or 5 weeks. I don’t know what his treatment entailed.

I hope you manage to recover completely.

I was hoping to test the calf Sunday with a 3-mile jog. But, there was still pain and I figured it best to wait until Tuesday and test it on the lanes.

I did take some precautions.

1. I stretched it out quite a bit prior to bowling, as directed.

2. I saw a video online about "taping" your calf. So, prior to bowling I bought a couple kinds of athletic tape and taped my calf.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 12

556 Series: 231-153-172

I was feeling.a lot better. The achilles and calf were feeling good and I switched from a #10 to a #9 sole which helped with stability. I also was trying to fix my timing issues by getting the ball into the swing earlier.
X, 8 /, X, X, X, X, 6 3, 9 /, X, X X 7.

Game 2 everything fell apart. Four of the five bowlers started to struggle...myself included. On the left lane, I couldn't seem to get right of the headpin. If I moved right, I'd go through the nose...if I moved left...I'd either pull the shot or miss right. I even pulled out the Force Pearl trying to figure out something.
8 /, 9 /, 8 1, 9 /, 8 1, 9 /, X, X, 7 -, 7 2.

Same struggles in Game 3...except now I was about as far left (3rd arrow) as I could comfortably play. I actually had a decent line on the right lane...standing about 9-10 boards left of center and targeting 14 at the arrows. But, on the left lane, I was a few boards deeper and just couldn't get my shot to work.
X, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 1, 9 /, 7 1, X, 9 / 9.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 42%
Spares: 58% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (8/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 3-pin, 5-pin and 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 2-pin and 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 66% (10/15)
Multiple Pin spares: 28% (2/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 (2x).

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 185.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a.

The good news is, the leg was good and the scores improved.

The bad news is...

1) My game still isn't where it was back in 2016/2017.

2) My team is still giving me problems. One of the guys is cool, but the other 3 seem to take turns annoying me.

One likes to mess with my phone or notepad or cards (playing) while I'm bowling. He's gotten better now that I have a new phone. I think he's more respectful of the fact that it's a fairly expensive phone.

The other guy throws temper tantrums when he doesn't bowl well...and he has the lowest average on the team. He's been bowling better lately...and he got fined $35 for breaking something on the table a couple weeks ago...so maybe that'll settle him down a little bit. But when he gets in a "mood"...it's not even fun to be there.

And lastly, the anchor...he's our best bowler, highest average, etc... But, he doesn't know much about bowling balls/specs/surfacing. So, he has strong opinions about what I 'should' be using and gets downright annoying about it...pretty much demanding that I surface my equipment or demanding that I not make a ball change that he doesn't think I should make.

Tonight I threw X, 8 /, X, X, X, X, 6 3, 9 / before deciding to ball down to the Optimus Solid. I made that decision because I made a good shot on the lane I previously struck on...but left a stone 8-pin. I didn't have good intel on the other lane because I missed my shot on the previous shot and left a washout. The teammate was adamant that I not make a ball change. I did anyway...and I went on to X, X X 7.

And it's not helping that our team is losing 3 out of 4 each night when we're used to winning.

Aslan

11-17-2021, 01:41 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 13

522 Series: 165-196-161

The Grudge Hybrid seemed to be burning up early in practice and I didn't have a good inside line in practice...so I decided to start with the Optimus Solid. In the 9th, I pulled my calf muscle again and aggravated my achilles. I really thought that was going to be the end of my night.
7 /, X, 8 /, 7 2, 8 /, 7 2, 9 /, X, 8 -, XX7.

Game 2 I re-taped my calf and switched to the Pyramid Force Pearl. I was inside of 2nd arrow and struggling to get the ball out and right of the head pin...and was struggling with balance, consistency, and speed management...because I was in a great deal of pain when I'd try to push off with my right leg. X, X, 9 /, 9 /, 7 2, X, X, 7 /, 9 /, 7 / 9.

More of the same in Game 3 except by now I was right up against 3rd arrow and was standing at around 10 boards left of center...so I was getting outside my comfort zone for sure. 9 /, X, 7 /, 7 /, 3 6, 8 /, 9 /, 7 2, X, 9 / 7.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.35 pins
Strikes: 29%
Spares: 71% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (7/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 5-pin (2x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin, nor 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 77% (14/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 63% (7/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 (3x).

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 174.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a.

Obviously, the bad news is my calf "popped" again. And, regardless of what my doctor thinks, I can't just keep bowling as usual in this condition. Even BEFORE my injury, I was struggling to bowl in the high 180s and regain my form from 2016. With my achilles and calf issues, I'm struggling to bowl in the 170s. STRUGGLING. Not just, 'struggling'...but limping and painfully torturing myself shot after shot.

At the same time, I'm trying to work on the basics. Trying to get my ball into my swing earlier so my timing isn't late. Trying to keep my head steady throughout my approach. Trying to keep my eyes on my target. Trying to stay balanced at the foul line and keep my sweep leg down. Trying to follow through towards my target and watch the ball as it travels down the lanes and through the pin deck.

The only good thing is tonight I won two card games...so there's $10! And, thats two weeks in a row with 100% single-pin spare shooting.

Aslan

11-24-2021, 12:51 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 14

475 Series: 156-170-149

The Grudge Hybrid seemed to be burning up early in practice and I didn't have a good inside line in practice...so I decided to start with the Optimus Solid again. Switched to the Force Pearl in the 10th and struck out.
9 -, 9 /, 7 2, 9 -, 7 2, X, X, 8 /, 6 3, XXX.

Stuck with the Force Pearl in Game 2.
9 /, 7 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 -, 9 -, 7 /, 9 /, X, 8 / 9.

Switched to the Fortera Exile in Game 3.
7 2, 8 1, 7 2, 7 /, 7 /, 9 -, 9 /, X, X, 9 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.58 pins
Strikes: 24%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (6/12)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 50% (11/22)
Multiple Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 (4x).

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 158.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 178.33.

Very difficult night. The leg was fine, but the team is unraveling.

At one point, the anchor was frustrated about the lack of surface on my bowling balls. It's been something he's been preaching for weeks now. So he made some off hand comment that I better show up next week with surface on my bowling balls...kind've a threat, but not a serious threat...just him being frustrated.

And the team captain was bowling terribly...so he got ticked off and threw his hand (cards) back into the draw pile. I tried to move them aside so they wouldn't get mixed up with the cards that hadn't been drawn yet...but he got annoyed by that and then mixed them further into the bottom of the pile.

So, just aggravations bubbling over on a team that is used to winning that isn't winning.

J Anderson

11-24-2021, 06:54 AM

At this point I have to wonder how much of your problems and your teammates problems are being caused by the friction between team members.

Aslan

11-24-2021, 11:51 AM

At this point I have to wonder how much of your problems and your teammates problems are being caused by the friction between team members.

You aren't wrong. :confused:

Aslan

12-01-2021, 12:53 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 15

610 Series: 195-204-211

The sanded (800 Siaair) Optimus Solid had horrible carry. In order to strike, I had to move 1:2 right...and then had to move my vertical target out significantly. By the later part of Game 1 I was aiming about halfway down the lane and putting significant loft on the ball. This also caused my speed to drop to 12.8-13.4mph.
9 -, X, 9 /, X, 9 -, 9 /, X, X, X, 9 /9.

Was worried when I switched to the Force Pearl that my teammate was going to throw a temper tantrum...but he wasn't having a great Game 1 so he was a bit distracted. Unfortunately, I aggravated my Achilles early in Game 2 so I was struggling with that again.
X, 9 /, X, 9 -, X, X, X, 9 /, X, 9 /7.

Things were working well, but I was really battling my Achilles pain.
X, 5 3, 6 1, X, X, X, X, X, 9 /, 9 /X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.27 pins
Strikes: 54%
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 66% (8/12)
Multiple Pin spares: 0% (0/1)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-3-6-9 (1x).

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 203.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 214.67.

The sanded Optimus Solid sanded worked about as well as I thought it would. Actually, better than I thought it would because I under-estimated my ability to make small changes to my game to adapt.

The leg fell apart though. Got a doctor's appointment tomorrow to see what's going on. It's very difficult to make good shots when you can't get any power from your push-off leg.

2 for 5 on corner pins didn't help either...

boomer

12-01-2021, 10:23 AM

The leg fell apart though. Got a doctor's appointment tomorrow to see what's going on. It's very difficult to make good shots when you can't get any power from your push-off leg.

I hear ya - having problems with your slide leg is bad too. Good luck with the doc!

Aslan

12-08-2021, 12:16 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Decided to bowl...DESPITE having either a real bad cold, bronchitis, or mild pneumonia. So, not at my best physically. Surprise, surprise.

Week 16

497 Series: 157-160-180

Started out with the Grudge Hybrid. Was having trouble hitting my mark consistently. If I was balanced and my timing was good...and I hit my mark...I actually did quite well. Unfortunately, that was < 50% of the time.
X, 7 2, 9 -, X, 8 1, X, X, 8 1, X, 8 /,6.

More of the same in Game 2. I knew I needed to make a ball change in the 10th, but wasn't sure if I should ball down to the Optimus Solid or switch to the Fortera Exile. But, I had lost my line and had moved too far inside...out of my comfort zone...so now I was essentially screwed.
7 2, 8 -, X, X, 8 /, 9 /, 8 /, 7 /, 6 3, 7 / 6.

Decided to use the Fortera Exile. Moved significantly right on the right lane...but tried to stay left on the left lane and play the tighter 3rd arrow line.
9 /, 9 /, X, 7 /, X, 6 /, X, 7 1, 8 /, 7 /8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.27 pins
Strikes: 30%
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (3/4)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, and 6-pin.

Makeable spares: 68% (11/16)
Multiple Pin spares: 66% (8/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-8, 3-6-10, 6-10, and 1-2 (2x each).

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 165.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 169.33.

This is a continuance of me trying to understand what in God's name Rob is talking about regarding playing in the oil. I mean, I genuinely don't understand.

On the left lane...I moved in to 31-32 (feet) targeting 15-16 and in the second game and started missing right of the head-pin and leave the 1-2-8. But, if I moved right...I'd hit too far inside and leave the 4-pin. So, I ball down to the Fortera Exile and move my feet to 30-31 and my target to 14-15...and move my target in (between the dots and arrows).

Now, IF I throw a PERFECT shot on this line...it strikes....on the left lane. But it's gotta be PERFECT. If I miss 2 boards right...5-pin. If I pull the shot...even 1 board...through the nose and I leave the 6-10. NO ROOM for error playing that line. "But"...I 'did' strike 3 out of 5 times playing that line...AND...they were SOLID strikes. I'm talking 10-in-the-pit.

On the right lane....that same line missed well right and left me a 1-2-8. I tried to move 1:2 right....it left me a 1-2-4-8. I never actually figured out what line to play on that right lane...because I ended up making bad shots near the end of the game and pretty soon the game was over. Maybe it was because my vertical target on the right lane was at the arrows and I needed to move it in (like on the left lane). Maybe I made one too many adjustments right. Maybe I should have brought my target in and made an adjustment left?

All I know is...I watched a guy throw a 270 with a Pyramid Force Gold and my teammate throw a 296...and they both threw up the track all night. So, why am I trying to "get fancy"? Sometimes I'm tempted to get my grandpa's old 1-ball leather bowling bag...put the old Track 300A ball in it...and just throw that weak *** ball up 2nd arrow all night long.

Bowling with pneumonia...and a right Achilles that can only last 1 game with out acting up. :mad: :(

Aslan

12-15-2021, 04:04 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 17

551 Series: 146-223 (clean) -182

Started out with the Grudge Hybrid. It seemed clear early on that it wasn't going to be a good choice...but I didn't want to make a premature move so I tried to stick it out for a handful of frames...then switched to the Optimus Solid. Just never found a line that worked. Same problem as usual. Both balls tended to go through the nose...but if I moved inside...both balls would miss well right.
9 /, 7 2, 7 1, X, 9 /, 8 -, 9 /, X, 9 -, 9 /8.

Switched to the Force Pearl and everything fell into place. Once I made the switch...if I hit my mark, in time, I struck. So, the line and ball suddenly were working.
X, 8 /, 9 /, X, X, 7 /, X, X, X, 9 /8.

Made the mistake of switching to the Fortera Exile in the 5th frame. I'm not sure if it was a "mistake"...but I thought I needed to also made a slight adjustment right when I made the ball change...which I definitely didn't need to do. By the time I figured that out, the game was over and I had fought my way into a 182.
X, X, 7 2, X, 7 -, 8 /, X, X, 8 /, 7 /8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.82 pins
Strikes: 39%
Spares: 64% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 6-pin (2x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 3-pin, nor 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 83% (10/12)
Multiple Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 20% (1/5)

Average over 3 games: 183.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 187.33.

Not sure why I tend to throw "skid/flip" balls well and have so much trouble throwing other types of balls.

And, bowling balls aside, I'm not sure what is wrong with my game. I'm tempted to video tape my bowling and see if I can send it to my former coaches (who have previous experience with me) and maybe they can see some areas where I've gone off the rails. I'm only hesitating because I have a promising job interview in the first week of January and I may be finally moving back to Michigan. And, I think there's a bowling center with a decent coach that will be near where I'm moving to. So, thats probably preferable to video coaching.

And, as much as I am trying to dance around the 800lb elephant in the room...I'm 1/3 of the way through physical therapy with this leg issue. How much of this struggling is physical? I know one of my open frames was because my left ankle "suddenly hurt". It went away the following frame...but it was one of those "physical ailments". And, I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place. Either I push through with physical therapy and hope this achilles problem gets fixed...or its surgery. And if its surgery...thats months of no weight, no bowling...months and months of physical therapy...and there's no guarantee it won't plague me due to the surgery.

But, I gotta find a way to consistently delver the ball. This 150s, 220s, 180s, 130s, 210s roller coaster is nonsense.

Aslan

12-22-2021, 07:49 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 18

539 Series: 183-222-134

Started out with the Optimus Solid. It was actually a decent game if it weren't for a terrible shot in the 10th that left me with a 1-2-4 I ended up chopping.
7 -, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, X, 7 2.

Stuck with the Optimus Solid. Things seemed to be working fine. Had to make a couple adjustments...but things were generally working. Thought about making a ball change in the 9th, but stuck it out until the end.
X, X, X, 9 -, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, X, X 6 /.

Pretty much everything went wrong at this point. Was missing my mark and not squaring my shoulders. By the time I fixed that, the line was transitioning...which meant I was leaving spares. And, I wasn't picking those spares up...so...not a good combination.
8 /, 6 3, 7 -, 7 2, 9 /, 9 -, X, 8 -, 9 /, X 6 3.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.81 pins
Strikes: 40%
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 80% (8/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, nor 4-pin.

Makeable spares: 55% (10/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 25% (2/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 179.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 187.33.

The most interesting stat is that, had I made all my single-pin spares, I'd have averaged the same as last week (had I made all my single-pin spares).

The "good news", is my leg (achilles) has now been good for two straight weeks. The issue is still there and I'm only halfway through physical therapy, but this is the first time I've made it two straight weeks with no significant pain.

No bowling next week (holiday break). I have a job interview in a couple weeks that might take me back home to Michigan where I can re-start my coaching and get back on track.

J Anderson

12-22-2021, 08:06 PM

Good luck with both the leg healing and the interview!

Aslan

01-05-2022, 08:07 AM

Good luck with both the leg healing and the interview!
The Achilles actually felt great. Not sure if it was the week off or if the physical therapy is helping or both.

As for the interview, I'll be braving the cold weather and highway this morning and the interview is scheduled for tomorrow morning...so we'll see what happens. I'm trying not to get too far ahead of myself. I've been down this path before.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 19

496 Series: 166-161-169

Started out with the Optimus Solid, but made the rare move of balling "UP" in the 9th because it seemed like my line was just too far inside for some reason. I had started standing 18-19 and targeting 8-9 just past the arrows...which is NOT an aggressive line by any means. But, I was coming in light shot after shot: 1-2-8, 7-pin, 2-4-5, 2-pin, 2-pin, strike, 1-2-10, 10-pin.
7 /, 9 /, 7 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, 7 -, 9 -, 8 /, X 7 2.

Unfortunately, things didn't improve much. I think the ball change and move right was the right move...but by the second game, the lanes were starting to transition. Couple that with me just not making good shots and you aren't going to score very high.
X, 9 -, 6 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, 7 2, 8 /, 7 2.

Was tempted to switch to the Fortera Exile at some point, but I stuck it out with the Grudge...mostly out of frustration.
X, X, 8 1, 7 2, 9 /, 7 2, X, 9 /, 9 -, XXX.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.67 pins
Strikes: 33%
Spares: 54% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (5x)
Also left a single 2-pin (2x), 4-pin (2x), and 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 63% (12/19)
Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-9 and 1-2-10 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 165.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 175.00.

Can't blame tonight on health. The achilles was fine. Whatever I once "had", I've lost. I'm now arguably a worse bowler than I was when I got my first ball in 2014 and was able to average in the high 160s.

Aslan

01-12-2022, 02:47 PM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 20

566 Series: 182-170-214

The Grudge Hybrid was finding the pocket pretty good...except for the times when I'd make a terrible shot...which seemed like half the time. Managed to stay mostly clean with the exception of a 2-8-10 split in the 4th. Just never put any strikes together.
9 /, 8 /, X, 7 -, 9 /, X, 7 /, X, 9 /, X 7 /.

Was tempted to switch balls late in the 1st game...and maybe I should have. But, I held out until the 4th frame of Game 2 before making the move. Too many opens to score well.
7 /, 6 3, 9 -, 9 /, X, 3 /, X, X, 8 1, 9 / X.

Started really pushing the ball out vertically in Game 3....avoiding making the ball change to the Exile. After a pocket 10 in the 8th, on an otherwise perfect toss, I decided I needed to make the change...but again was hesitant...so I stuck it out with the Optimus Solid. BAD mistake. Received the maximum penalty for that mistake in the 10th with a pocket 8-10 split.
X, 7 /, X, X, X, X, X, 9 /, 8 1, 8 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.72 pins
Strikes: 43%
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin and 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 4-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin.

Makeable spares: 73% (11/15)
Multiple Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 188.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 192.00.

Achilles felt pretty good. I tried to focus on my push away and my balance. Also noticed that I made much better shots if I made an effort to stay down after releasing the ball (versus popping back up) and keeping that sweep leg on the approach. My one teammate was continually commenting that my strikes were really "loud" tonight...whatever that means.

I think I could have shot better if I had made ball changes when I felt it was needed rather than being timid about it. My bad there.

I informed my team, over a round of shots, that I have 3 more weeks left on the team as I've accepted a position in Michigan. Time to take my bowling career home. I'll be out of bowling for a short time as fall leagues finish up...but that'll give me time to get settled in, get some new equipment, and get some much needed coaching. I'll be within 30 minutes of a PBA level center and at least 2 high quality coaches that I think can get my game back on track.

So, things are looking up. IF the Achilles can stay healthy...AND the knee can stay healthy...AND the new job doesn't work me to death...I'll be making 110% more than I'm making now which will give me the money I need for a new arsenal and the coaching I need to get back to that mid-190s level I was at in 2017.

J Anderson

01-12-2022, 07:35 PM

boatman37

01-12-2022, 07:55 PM

Congrats on the new job!

Aslan

01-19-2022, 01:56 PM

Glad to hear things are looking up. I wonder if having good news from the job interview put you in a better state of mind to execute good shots.

It’s very hard to stay down when your subconscious thinks it has to protect the knee.

True. I think I'm getting more confident that the Achilles is "okay" and my subconscious is doing exactly what you're saying. It's still a bit of a work in progress...but it's like if you stick on the approach or fall or go over the foul line. Your next shot(s) you're usually not gonna do very well because you're at least subconsciously worried about your footing or the foul line.

Congrats on the new job!
Thank you.

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 21

Just so I can comment about it in my descriptions below...we found out after bowling that the center had decided to shorten the THS by 1'...so keep that in mind.

581 Series: 209-198-174

I was tempted to start with the Optimus...but decided to just use the Grudge Hybrid and get the ball a little further out on the lanes. I DID have to make a 1:2 move right, on both lanes, because the pattern seemed to be playing a little longer or wider than last week. My only opens were a 4-6-7 split and a single 9-pin where the ball seemed to hook more than usual at the end of the pattern.
X, X, 9 /, 7 1, 9 -, X, X, 8 /, X, XX8.

Stuck with the Grudge Hybrid and just kept inching my way left. Kept my vertical target out past the arrows to try and get the ball further out on the lane. More of the same. Made a bad shot at a single 4-pin in the 7th frame. Then, made a mental error trying to pick up a single 3-pin (moved right instead of left). Had the pattern been a shade longer...I'd have still clipped it...but no luck.
9 /, X, X, X, 8 /, 7 /, 9 -, X, 9 -, XX7.

Thought about switching to the Fortera Exile to give me a little more 'pop' on the backend...but the Grudge was still holding it's own so I stuck with it. If RobM can bowl with one ball all night then so can I! :p. Unfortunately, it's not a good scoring strategy (in bowling) to limit your strikes to every other frame. Spare shooting wasn't terrible (thank god)...just missed a 6-pin to the right. But, I made a terrible shot in the 10th and chopped a 2-5-8...so that was that.
X, 9 /, 9 -, X, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 /, 7 2.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.15 pins
Strikes: 50%
Spares: 60% picked up

Single Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, nor 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 64% (9/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 193.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 209.33.

Form is getting better. Staying down in my shots.

I ordered an alcoholic beverage tonight....which I usually don't. Of course, I bowled well and my teammates are convinced it's because I was drinking. So, I guess I'm obligated to drink the rest of my time on the team and I think they've volunteered to buy...so good deal there.

I think my success was 5% mental, 30% pattern, and 65% physical:

Physical: The achilles is feeling better. As stated above...when you aren't subconsciously worried about snapping your tendons, you tend to be able to have better form and post shots and do what you need to do. Still need to work on getting my balance back. Fell off way too many shots tonight.

Pattern: The shorter pattern seemed to allow the Grudge to turn the corner when it got to the end of the pattern. While I started 1:2 right of last week...I ended up inside of where I normally play and inside of most of the other bowlers (RobM would have been proud). I didn't need to "bounce it off the dry"...because there was just enough dry at the end of the pattern to serve my needs. At least, thats my theory.

Mental: Maybe it's mentally getting over the injury. Maybe it's looking forward to life again with a new job opportunity. Maybe it's getting 2-3 drinks in me. Whatever it is, there just feels like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders. Sometimes, just a little relaxation in your approach and release can make that much of a difference.

I'd normally be annoyed about the single-pins...but I really only made one bad shot...and that was at the 4-pin in Game 2. I was making my corner pins tonight. I missed a 3-pin and a 9-pin...but I think that had to do with the pattern hooking more on the backend than usual...and I barely missed those pins. The 3-pin was my fault...I moved the wrong way. But, the 9-pin I would have had if there was another foot of oil on the lane...no doubt.

Aslan

01-26-2022, 10:59 AM

Tuesday Men's League: THS

Week 22

474 Series: 184-160-130

Left lane the ball seemed to be diving through the nose in practice. Right lane, the ball couldn't get back to the pocket inside 2nd arrow. So, I ended up throwing it 8-9 on the right lane...trying to get the ball out on the lane as far as I could (without messing with my timing) so the ball still had some energy to carry. And, on the left lane...I was already at 13 before the first game was over...and thats no bueno for my game. Had a shot at salvaging a decent score...until I attempted a 6-10 spare conversion in the 10th and threw the ball in the gutter about 7 feet in front of the pin deck. :mad:
9 /, 6 -, 6 /, X, 6 /, 8 /, X, X, X, 8 -.

Had made the move to the Optimus Solid late in Game 1...and (as you can see)...nothing was working. NOTHING. Switched to the Force Pearl late in Game 2...but by then a 180 wasn't even in play.
X, 7 2, 7 2, 7 2, 8 /, 9 /, 8 1, X, 8 /, X X 8.

After the first 4 frames of this...I was done with the Force Pearl and made my move to the Fortera Exile. I was about out of options. Nothing was working. I had an extremely tight line on the left lane...standing about 30-33 and throwing it up 3rd arrow. On the right lane I was just inside 2nd arrow and that line was even tighter.
6 3, 8 /, 7 2, 7 2, 9 -, X, 9 /, X, 9 -, 8 1.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.38 pins
Strikes: 31%
Spares: 42% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (2x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 5-pin, and 7-pin.

Makeable spares: 50% (9/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 46% (6/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 158.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 165.00.

Form wasn't as good tonight. My right ankle was bothering me a bit. I "tweaked" it over the weekend and it was sore...felt like a very mild sprain. Wasn't staying down in my shots the way I wanted...fell off a few shots...didn't keep the sweep leg on the floor on a few shots...just things I know I can do better.

But, the bigger reason for the big drop in scores is the pair. This pair is notoriously bad. I'm not a big believer in one lane being different than the one next to it...or a "bad pair" in a house. I think a lot of that is just old wives tale stuff...bowlers consulting their farmer's almanacs. BUT...THIS pair...is terrible...and I think the reason it plays so weird is the center ran it's water/sewer lines under this pair...which I think has caused something to happen to topography of these two lanes. I don't base that just on MY game...because I've been struggling all over the house. But, nobody bowls consistently well on this pair. Four of our bowlers shot a 220+ game AND a < 170 game tonight.

I think a LOT of the struggle is bowlers refusing to play a pair differently. I knew this pair was weird...so I was willing to play 2nd arrow on one lane and 3rd arrow on the other. I was literally 4:9 left on one lane over. That not usual for me and most bowlers won't accept that. So, they might find a strike line on one lane, then miss terribly on the other...which doesn't give you very good bowling scores.

RobLV1

01-26-2022, 11:28 AM

Keep in mind that the topography becomes more (or less) dominant as the oil dries up. Slight topographical issues can become much more pronounced as the ball is rolling over them rather than skidding over them. Yesterday I bowled a pair that was just like that. By the beginning of the third game, the first 2 1/2 frames bowled by the six bowlers on the pair saw 8 seven counts (out of 14 frames). These were not bad bowlers, just unaccustomed to reacting that fast to rapidly changing conditions.

Aslan

01-26-2022, 11:48 AM

By the beginning of the third game, the first 2 1/2 frames bowled by the six bowlers on the pair saw 8 seven counts (out of 14 frames).

And, you'd be surprised how many ways you can chop a 3/4 bucket...in one night. :mad:

J Anderson

01-26-2022, 01:09 PM

And, you'd be surprised how many ways you can chop a 3/4 bucket...in one night. :mad:

Five?

Aslan

01-28-2022, 03:33 PM

Five?

I counted at least 3 between the 3/4 buckets on the left side and right side.

Chopped the 2 and 5 off the 2-4-5...on what looked like a great shot....but the ball slammed into the 3-5 pocket and deflected. That was in the 4th frame of Game 2.

Same type of chop on the other side when I went Brooklyn on a 3-5-6 and chopped the 3-5 off. That was the 3rd frame of Game 3.

(Looking at Pinpal)...I think the other one I was thinking of was actually chopping a 3-6-9-10...again, I thought I hit it well...and the ball deflected and left the 9. That was the first frame of Game 3.

Or, it might of been frame 4 of Game 3...another shot that "looked good", but chopped the 1-2 off the 1-2-8.

All that "chopping" gets confusing.

J Anderson

01-28-2022, 04:56 PM

Any more chopping and you’ll wind up on one of those cooking shows🥴

Aslan

02-03-2022, 11:23 AM

Any more chopping and you’ll wind up on one of those cooking shows🥴

Probably be a better cook than a bowler. Can't be much worse.

Week 23

490 Series: 148-163-179

Was well inside normal...pretty early in Game 1. I'd like to say "RobM would be proud"...but, as usual when I get anywhere near 15, I bowled like a 3rd-grade special olympian minus the skill of a special olympian.
X, 8 /, 5 4, 9 -, 9 /, X, 6 3, 7 2, X, 9 / 8.

Continued to struggle in Game 2.
9 /, X, 7 /, 9 -, 8 -, 9 /, 8 1, X, 7 /, X 8 /.

Switched to the Fortera Exile in Frame 2 and threw a perfect shot. It was the EXACT line I was looking for inside. I was standing about 31 and aiming 16 and the ball just crushed the pocket. My team acknowledged the impressive strike...but the 2 older guys still wanted me to abandon the line and go back out to 2nd arrow.

You gotta remember...even though I often debate Rob about modern bowling techniques...I've adopted FAR more of Rob's modern bowling techniques than I've rejected or that I argue with him about. MOST bowlers...including these guys...they are still stuck in 1983. So, they wanted me to just stand in the center and throw up 2nd arrow.

Normally, I'd resist...but, I got one more week...and who cares? Humor them. Not like I'm lighting the world on fire. So, I tried a one more shot on the inside line that left me with a 2-10 and figured...screw it. I moved back outside...moved back in the approach to get a little more speed...and, it didn't go as bad as I thought. A 7-count on a bad shot, 2 9-counts, and 5 strikes.
9 -, X, 8 -, 9 /, X, X, 9 -, X, X, 7 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 36%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin (2x), and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 58% (10/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6-10 and 3-9 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 163.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 177.67.

Debating whether I should just bring the Gold Rhino and Pyramid Force (and a spare ball) next week. Kinda like golf. Why bring all these balls and try to play inside and do all this stuff when I have no ability to do anything other than just throw the ball up second arrow? At what point do I just accept that reality and stop making a fool of myself? :o :confused:

Aslan

02-09-2022, 10:20 AM

Week 24

605 Series: 216-223 (clean)-166

A little deceptive. Some lucky strikes and Brooklyn strikes mixed in there.
X, X, 6 1, X, X, X, X, 9 / 8 /, 9 /X.

The lanes were transitioning...pulling me inside. I wasn't doing a good job of reading the ball's deflection through the pins...thus you end up with single pins to force you to move left.
X, X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 8 /, X, X, 8 /, XXX.

After a couple more frames of bad carry, I finally made the move to the Force Pearl to get a smoother ride through the heads and a little more 'pop' downlane. Unfortunately, my spare shooting completely fell apart in Game 3. So, when I missed and left anything...I couldn't convert.
9 -, 8 1, 9 /, X, X, X, 6 /, 8 - 8 1, 8 1, 9 /7.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.09 pins
Strikes: 50%
Spares: 68% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 9-pin (3x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin (2x), 5-pin, and 7-pin.

Makeable spares: 76% (10/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4-10 (2x)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 201.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 204.67.

Did an "Anti-RobM" approach in my final game in Iowa. Only took 2 strike balls and a spare ball with me. Unretired the Vintage Rhino Gold, surfaced it to 180/360/1000/R. Compound...and moved my feet out to 16 and my target to 8 at the arrows. Just an "up and in" shot...very old school. Rely on the low differential, 2.52 RG Rhino Gold...with the R. Compound surface...and hope that it'll retain the energy to carry.

Where I made the mistake...was not paying attention to the ball as it went through pin deck. I was being given signs early on, that the ball was losing energy...and I needed to move a little inside. I didn't do that...and by Game 2...I started leaving 4-pins and 9-pins. I could have avoided those leaves and continued striking if I had paid more attention to the deflection.

Finished the night with the Force Pearl surfaced to 800/Storm Step 2/polished...which, when thrown well...was like a heat-seeking missile.

Aslan

08-02-2023, 10:15 PM

First practice back on the lanes since leaving Iowa in early 2022.

The "good news"?

1. My Achilles held up.
2. I didn't fall down.
3. I didn't go postal on the mental midgets that surrounded me, all 3 games, rapid firing house balls, and seemingly never sitting down!
4. Rolled 3 games...3rd game I shot a 197 with two opens. That's about where I was in 2022.

The "bad news"?

1. I was horrible. I don't remember the scores of the first two games because I wasn't really keeping score until the 3rd game...but it was BAD! Usually when I have a long break...and come back...I do this thing where I throw the ball in the right gutter...like not squaring my shoulders or something...it just takes me a while to break that habit.

2. In case you live in Canada and haven't heard...it's wicked HOT...all over the country...but it's been > 100 degrees EVERY DAY for 3 weeks. Every day. 22-23% humidity...102 degrees. It's maddening! And don't get all Rob/classgranny and say it's hotter in Vegas or Phoenix. Yes...I know...but those are essentially deserts. If you're in a Vegas casino, it doesn't matter how hot it is outside. Unless it's Laughlin...that place was unbearable all the way around.

So, my point is...I'm fat...and I sweat a lot. I bring a washcloth and a battery powered fan with me to league night because I'll be sweating even in the winter. Well, today...oh my God! It looked like I just walked in to bowl from a water park. You sweat, the thumb tape comes off, God forbid a drop of sweat hits the approach and gets on my slide sole! My thumb was HUGE...so I had to go up a VISE size...then I shot a couple spare shots...no VISE in the spare ball...so I gotta take tape out! And all this heat makes my head hurt...so I had a splitting headache...I think I was dehydrated... :(

3. I knew I wasn't gonna learn much about my two new balls (Trident/Sting) given I haven't even resurfaced the OOB finish yet...but it would be nice to see how they "roll". But, when you're as rusty as I am...I just don't think my release was even close to normal...so I didn't "learn" anything about my new equipment. And I probably won't figure it out until a month into leagues.

I just really, really hope this new arsenal isn't a disaster. This is the first arsenal using the system I developed to select balls. It's taken almost 10 years to perfect it (and drain the 'closet of destiny'), and...if there's ANYTHING to ball specs...then this arsenal will be far superior to that garbage one I put together with the Optimus Solid/LaneMasters ball/Special Ops. If this system fails...then I'm just buying balls based on color and smell from now on...because it's all nonsense.

Takeaways?

I will probably be sore tomorrow...but as long as my Achilles is stable...Aslan will RISE...and I will RISE in Iceman's home state. Too bad he's not around to see me take over his throne. Maybe I can still make the Kansas Bowling HOF! Probably not. There's probably some legit talent in Wichita. The guy there that drilled my new balls for VISE IT is a former pro (Justin Hromek). I'm not sure if he still coaches...but I might see if wants to give me lessons once I'm back into it. He threw a kickanse ball back in the mid-90s! It's a pain to drive 45 minutes to get there...but this ain't Orange County, CA...this is Kansas. There's like 0 cities, Wichita, and then a scattering of large towns over an enormous area.

Gonna call the "league lady" tomorrow to see where I'm at as far as finding a team in a couple leagues. Worst case maybe I can sub. I could also convince my coworkers into creating a team...I think I could convince 2-3...maybe more. But, unfortunately, I live 25 minutes away and one of the guys that might be interested lives an hour away. And, I (selfishly) don't want to get through with work around 4:30 and have to sit in the bowling alley till 6:30 waiting for leagues to start. But, it's an option.

Also waiting on my "big order" from bowlingball.com! Went a little over budget and got a new pair of shoes and a couple deluxe triple rollers. The Pyramid shoes are really nice, but the right one is starting to come apart a little and the insides are pretty worn. It's time. I got 6-7 years out of em...and a LOT of games! And my Ebonite 4-ball roller bag has never been great. The handle broke almost immediately after I bought it. And the bottom pocket is starting to get little holes. It lasted me almost a decade...but I think two deluxe rollers gives me more than enough capacity and storage...with functioning handles...and that means I only need those two bags (versus a 4-ball roller, a 1-ball joey, and a backpack.

boomer

08-03-2023, 11:03 AM

Yeah - thank goodness you were only at 20% humidity. My buddy is in TN where it's upwards of 80% relative humidity. He's a rabid triathlete and he has no desire to do ANYTHING . . . LOL But I get ya - I've got my sweat-rag and my fan and my wife will STILL not give me a hug after a good shot. . . ;)

Just a thought - if you're having that much trouble, maybe do a 2-step drill to get back in the mode?

Aslan

08-13-2023, 10:04 PM

Open Bowling:

Sunday League Night - No Team/No Sub Opportunity

Oil Pattern: THS (dry)

157-164-153

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.27 pins
Strikes: 33%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (3x)
Never left single 1-pin, 6-pin, and 8-pin, nor 10-pin.

Multiple Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2 and 1-2-8 (2x each).

Splits: N/A

Average over 3 games: 158.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 174.67.

Still no interest from the Sunday or Wednesday leagues. :( A bowler with no home! Tried to drum up interest at the workplace in forming a team. But, no interest. So, I went to league night, tonight, just to see if a team might pick me up last minute. Offered to sub, but the guy never announced a sub was available (which I hate when they fail to do). So, I just bowled a few games (for score) to see how badly I 'would have' bowled for whatever desperate team picked me up.

Good News:
I felt better. Very few misses right, where I'm dumping it in the right gutter. No falls or sticks or other major disaster. The Achilles feels fine.

Bad News:
Pulled a LOT of shots...so timing is obviously still an issue. Spare shooting was HORRID. NINE single pins and I could only hit less than half. Every spare I left was "makable" and I still only shot 50%. Lame.

Like I sad, I finished off the hour with a game of Low Ball. Shot a 60, but probably more like a 75 with a couple penalties for a gutter and '0'. Not great. I think it's probably a "slightly above average" lowball score. 30-50 is probably the "Good" range. But still, I got in a good rhythm and started making some good shots at the corner pins.

Still got a shot at bowling on Wednesdays. I'd hate to have to go to the next nearest center...then I'd have to drag my bowling balls to work 1-2 times a week...which is a real PITA.

J Anderson

08-13-2023, 10:22 PM

Aslan

08-21-2023, 02:50 PM

For low ball, assuming you give yourself a strike for first ball gutters and a spare if you don’t hit any pins on the second ball, 60 is a decent score. It’s very common to take out the 6-9-10 when going for a ten pin and I have taken the 4-6-7-8-9-10 on quite a few shots when trying to pick off the ten.

Yeah. The one thing I don't like about lowball is if the are shooting at a 7-pin and miss a little inside (but still could pick up the 7-pin if it were alone there), you might clear out the 4-6-7-8-9-10...and now you can't really pick up anything on the 2nd ball without taking out at least 2 more pins. But if you throw a shot that 'would have' taken out the 10-pin...you get a "0" and a 10-point penalty.

It's too bad I can't just set the lane to put down a 4-7-8 and 6-9-10. Then you could try to pick off corners with minimal penalties.

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 2

575 Series: 233-194-148

6 2, X, 8 /, X, X, X, X, X, X, 5 /X.
A little deceptive. Some lucky strikes and at least 2 Brooklyn strikes mixed in there. The Trident Odyssey was really mowing them down!

X, 8 1, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, X 6 /.
Midway through, I switched to the Scorpion Sting. Just couldn't find the carry. However, once I switched to the Scorpion Sting on both lanes (7th frame), it was X, X, 9 /, X 6 /.

7 /, 8 /, 9 -, 3 5, 7 /, 9 /, X, 7 /, 8 1, 7 1.
Switched to the Force Pearl on the right lane starting in the 3rd frame. Having to switch thumb inserts each frame kinda messed with me. I'd much prefer to make a wholesale ball change. The real culprit was the heat. When it's 109 degrees outside, the thumb is a little bit bigger. Pulled a lot of shots just because my thumbhole was too tight.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.53 pins
Strikes: 40%
Spares: 68% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 3-pin and 6-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 68% (10/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 58% (7/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 191.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 193.33.

After the first two games, my new team was thinking they might have gotten themselves a halfway decent bowler. Put that to rest in Game 3.

Positives
- No injuries.
- Better spare shooting.

Negatives
- Environment (heat)
- Stats are indicitive of someone just spraying the ball all over the place...but being halfway decent at picking up the spares that are left.
- Release and timing are still awful. I'm off balance and I'm not low enough to get any leverage.

Aslan

08-27-2023, 12:14 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 1

513 Series: 156-125-232

7 /, 7 /, X, 9 /, 8 1, X, X, 7 2, 8 1, 8 -.
A lot of bad pulls...and a disastrous end with 3 opens. I figured, "Oh well, I'm establishing...so, whatever."

8 1, X, 8 1, 9 /, 9 /, 5 3, 5 4, 3 5, 6 3, X 6 /.
Switched to the Scorpion Sting in the 10th frame of Game 1. Tried to stick with it though all of Game 2. Just couldn't find the pocket. Pulls left, misses way right. I think I threw ONE good shot the entire game! And, I'm all for not going super-aggressive when you're establishing...but a 125 is embarrassing. This is a new team, a men's league, an established league, a lot of decent bowlers, and they were hoping for a 191 average bowler...not this disaster.

9 /, X, X, X, X, 7 1, X, 9 /, X, XX9.
Noticed the anchor was having a 700+ night and was essentially throwing and old ball, with an average release, up and in over 2nd arrow. I thought, "Why am I trying to play an inside line that I can't play...and THIS guy is just throwing up 2nd arrow and shooting 200+ each game?" So, scratched out my original game plan, took out the Rhino Gold, and...when in Rome... Coulda shot a 250+ if it weren't for some bad luck on a ringing 7-pin in the 1st and a stone 8 in the 8th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.39 pins
Strikes: 39%
Spares: 42% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (5/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (2x)
Also left a single 5-pin, 7-pin, and 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 47% (8/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 25% (3/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-3-6 and 1-3-6-8 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 171.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a.

It's funny how the team seemed a bit apprehensive early on...seeing that they might be getting a 125-160 bowler...and then by midway of Game 3 the captain was telling me that we had the game locked up...might want to save the handicap since I was establishing. I wouldn't normally sandbag like that anyways...but ESPECIALLY when I got something to prove. I figured those first two disasters were handicap enough.

And, I'm gonna start another thread on the struggle I've been having between adopting modern bowling techniques (which I'm convinced are valid) versus bowling the way my grandpa taught me..."just stand in the middle and roll it up 2nd arrow."

I've surfaced both the Trident Odyssey and the Scorpion Sting...so now I'll have a consistent surface to work from. Went 800/1000 sanded on the Trident. Haven't seen the movement I expected from that ball, so I wanted to bump that grit down a little. The Scorpion Sting I went with a 1000/2000 and then finished with some old Storm Step 2. This is essentially the OOB finish...but one that I can repeat and work with.

Positives
- Averted a complete disaster with a strong 230+ game in Game 3.
- Learned a little more about these lanes and which line I might want to focus on.
- New team seems cool. And, it's a decent, established league.
- Achilles is holding up.
- I always say it, anytime you shoot 100% at single-pin spares...it's a good night.

Negatives
- K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid). I'm a speed dominant bowler trying to play a rev dominant bowler's game. I need to do what works...let the lane dictate the shot rather than me try to force a shot on the lane.
- Can't get low enough (knee) to get good leverage on the ball and finish with good balance. I need to lose some weight and find a way to get low enough to be effective, without blowing out my slide knee.
- You CAN'T leave 12 multi-pin spares. AND, even if you do...you can't have a 25% conversion rate. That makes good bowling scores mathematically impossible.
- Environment: Heat. Gonna have to go down to Wichita to get some work done on my VISE inserts. I'm now using the biggest one...and I really need to have them all widened to where I'm using the 2nd or 3rd biggest on nights like these. Using the top one leaves me no room to go up (should I have to) and leaves 5-6 inserts unusable. Defeats the whole purpose of interchangeable thumbs.

Aslan

08-28-2023, 02:43 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 3

528 Series: 187-142-199

Struggled with timing early...but miraculously only opened twice and got some help from a couple Brooklyn strikes.
8 /, X, X, 5 3, 8 -, X, X, 9 /, X, 9 / 9.

Just wasn't carrying on shots that should carry...so I switched to the Scorpion Sting. Ended up with 4 splits...and even though I converted two of them...three other opens...two on single-pins. And, I only struck twice.
9 /, 9 -, 8 1, X, 8 /, 8 1, 7 2, 9 -, 9 /, X 8 /.

Switched to the Force Pearl...which is my most reliable ball in my arsenal. Had to make a minor adjustment to the right...but I started off strong. After the first 4 frames, I pulled a couple shots and then needed to make a small adjustment to the left...finished strong in the 10th...but needed to strike out to salvage a '200'...I went X X 9...pulled the 3rd shot and left a 3-pin.
X, X, X, X, 8 1, 9 /, 7 2, 8 /, 9 -, X X 9.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 38%
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 5-pin, 6-pin, and 10-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 2-pin, and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 42% (6/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 16% (1/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-9 (2x)

Splits: 60% (3/5)

Average over 3 games: 176.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 186.67.

I wasn't a "bad" night....but still working out my timing and figuring out my new arsenal.

Positives
- Two games where I almost hit 200.
- Converted 3 out of 5 splits.

Negatives
- Still haven't 100% locked down the line I need at this house.
- Knees and achilles were sore.

Aslan

09-03-2023, 03:15 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 2

572 Series: 166-243 (clean)-163

X, 9 -, 9 /, 7 /, 8 /, 6 3, 9 /, X, 3 /, 9 / 9.
Not good. I didn't like the Odyssey in practice, so I started with the Scorpion Sting. Timing was still off and the lanes were really slick making my footing questionable.

X, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, XX6.
They weren't all pretty...still figuring out the new ball...but once I flattened out my line and started making some better shots...things felt good.

X, 7 2, 8 /, X, 7 /, 8 1, X, 9 /, X, 8 1.
This score was a lot worse than the actual game was...mainly because of the open 10th. Switched to the Force Pearl...and (as usual), that ball was lights out. It was so impressive I heard the young (good) team we were bowling against rumbling about how good my ball was moving. Its (Force Pearl) probably not as good as my old Reaxx Pearl...and it's definitely not as powerful as my Scandal Pearl....but I'd probably have it #3 on my list...even ahead of the Forbear Exile...which was a ball I loved.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.76 pins
Strikes: 42%
Spares: 70% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (4x)
Also left a single 3-pin (3x) and 4-pin.

Makeable spares: 70% (12/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 190.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 194.33.

Not a bad night. I gotta move a little right and play the track...at least until I can get more knee bend and a more consistent delivery and release. I'm just not getting the leverage right now that I need to move in and take a more inside line. Not without sacrificing 4mph or so. As long as the track is playable, I'd rather the 16-17mph than to move inside and try to throw in the 9-13mph range.

Positives
- Never a bad night when you get a clean game.
- Highest score since 10/5/2021.
- Achilles is holding up.
- Made a lot of spares. Hate to leave em, but if ya leave em, ya gotta pick em up. Much better with makable spares than last week.

Negatives
- Health is still my biggest enemy. My feet and ankles are swollen and the doctor I saw didn't know why. And, I "tweaked" my right knee...not sure when/how...but fortunately it's my push-off leg or I'd be potentially out of action again until it healed.

Aslan

09-05-2023, 12:05 AM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 4

517 Series: 151-176-190

Still couldn't find the line early on. I think I need to play more in the track...I'm still expecting too much of the ball...and my release is still in the toilet. Everything was awful. The line, the timing...just garbage. I guess I shouldn't be too hard on myself given the score was low due to two splits and an open tenth.
X, 6 2, X, X, 9 /, 5 3, 9 /, X, 5 3, 6 1.

Moved to the Scorpion Sting late into Game 1...stuck with it until the 10th of Game 2. I'd sum this nightmare up as, "Being able to pick up a lot of spares...after throwing horrible shots that caused the splits in the first place." I threw 3 splits, made one of them. The two splits were my only opens. But, when ya only manage to strike 3 times...you're not gonna score very high. The only highlight was picking up a 2-10 by ricocheting the 2-pin off the backstop.
9 /, 9 /, 8 1, 7 2, X, X, 6 /, 8 /, 8 /, X 8 1.

Switched to the Force Pearl in the 10th of Game 2. Played all of Game 3 with the FP. For some reason, I lost my line on one lane in the 1st frame and then lost the line on the other lane in the 4th. Fortunately, I made the right adjustments and finished the final half of the game halfway decent...but, disappointing overall result.
9 /, X, 5 2, 8 -, X, 9 /, X, X, X, 8 / X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.50 pins
Strikes: 40%
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (6/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 5-pin (2x).
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, 7-pin, and 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 64% (6/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 20% (1/5)

Average over 3 games: 172.33
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a.

I guess it wasn't terribly worse than last week. I can't blame bad luck given most of my spares were Brooklyn. I accidentally surfaced the Force Pearl wrong before the games. I was in a hurry to get it done before I had to leave. I think I intended to sand it to 1500/Storm Step 2 but ended up sanding it to 1500/Step 1/Step 2...so I guess not much difference. Another night with 5 splits...gotta make better shots to avoid such messes.

Positives
- 100% on single-pins.
- Got a few VISE inserts widened...wasn't having the same thumb issues as the previous couple weeks.

Negatives
- Still haven't 100% locked down the line I need at this house.
- Knees and achilles were sore.
- Late timing leading to pulled shots.

J Anderson

09-05-2023, 08:36 AM

Good to hear you got the Vise inserts modified. Now if you can get your timing right bothe your accuracy and your release should improve. Unfortunately I can’t help with the ankle/knee/weight problem.

Aslan

09-07-2023, 11:55 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 3

559 Series: 162-172-225

9 -, 7 /, 8 /, X, X, 7 -, 7 /, 8 1, 7 1, XX7.
Timing was still off, and I think my line is too aggressive given my poor release/timing. I keep 'trying' to get inside the track...because I KNOW I need to learn how to do this if I ever want to get to the next level. BUT, I have to get my fundamentals back or I'm just shooting myself in the foot. Switched from the Trident to the Scorpion in the 9th.

9 -, 7 /, X, X, 5 /, X, 7 /, 7 /, 7 /, 6 2.
Quickly switched to the Rhino Gold in the 2nd frame. I moved my feet right about 4 boards and my target right about 3 boards to account for the weaker ball. My timing and release seemed to improve a bit, but my accuracy was horrible. Even playing a forgiving line, you can't miss by 5-6 boards.

8 /, 6 /, X, X, X, X, X, 7 /, 7 -, XX8.
Switched to the Force Pearl (FP)in Game 3. The Rhino Gold just wasn't carrying (in the rare times I hit the pocket). And there was very little miss room. I was wide a 'little' right in the 10th frame of Game 2...and it stuck me with a 2-4-7-10 washout split. The FP was AMAZING! Once again, bowlers on the opposing team (and my own team) were in awe of how much backend motion this ball has...with me doing very little to help it. Unfortunately, it took me a couple frames to adjust my line and a couple frames in the 8th/9th to readjust my line. Would have had a clean game, but my thumb stuck on the spare conversion attempt in the 9th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.35 pins
Strikes: 41%
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 0% (0/2)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left a single 2-pin and 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 64% (11/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 73% (11/15)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-9-10 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 186.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 191.67.

It wasn't a great night. It ended on a good note, but overall was not so good. I think I need focus on accuracy as my form slowly comes back. I also had a much slower shot tonight (10-13mph versus 13-17mph) and the slower speed actually helped my ball motion. Until my form returns, I need to rely more on the ball to do it's job rather than throwing a shot where, "if everything is perfect...I should strike!" Instead, I need to throw a ball/line/speed where I don't need to be "perfect". Will I be able to throw the Trident and Scorpion at slower speeds on the track? I dunno. I don't think the Trident will react well out in the track...but maybe I just start with the Scorpion Sting and ball 'down' to the Rhino Gold.

I know RobM tends to hate adjusting so that I can stay in the track...rather than challenge myself to play inside more. But, he also helped teach me to slow my feet down and let the ball do the work (kinda like in golf...don't overswing, let the clubs do the work). And, right now, I don't trust that I have enough hand in the ball to throw it right and have it come back consistently when I'm targeting closer to 3rd arrow. Given that lack of trust, far too many pulled shots, etc...

Positives
- Force Pearl is a BEAST! I think it's going to give the Reaxx Pearl a run for it's money concerning the #2 spot on "Aslan's Top 10 Bowling Balls" list when I finally retire it.
- My 225 in the 3rd game allowed the team to take total points.

Negatives
- Cost my team a point in Game 2, opening in the 10th.
- FAR too many 1st ball 7-counts! 10x plus a 3-6-10 on the final ball in the 10th (Game 1) makes ELEVEN times!!
- Even though I only missed two...a 0% on single-pin conversions is always unacceptable. Looks like I need some more lowball practice!
- STILL haven't won a card game! I've thrown a 232, 243, and 225 where I was the top dog on at least two of those occasions...yet I can't win a **mn card game!

J Anderson

09-07-2023, 01:50 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 3

I know RobM tends to hate adjusting so that I can stay in the track...rather than challenge myself to play inside more. But, he also helped teach me to slow my feet down and let the ball do the work (kinda like in golf...don't overswing, let the clubs do the work). And, right now, I don't trust that I have enough hand in the ball to throw it right and have it come back consistently when I'm targeting closer to 3rd arrow. Given that lack of trust, far too many pulled shots, etc...

- STILL haven't won a card game! I've thrown a 232, 243, and 225 where I was the top dog on at least two of those occasions...yet I can't win a **mn card game!

So are you there to play cards or bowl? At least your last game helped your team take wood.

The track isn't always a bad place to play. Rob's point is that there are times where if you make adjustments and change ball to stay there your ball will wind up hitting like a marshmallow.

My own thought is that you need to work on your physical game more than practicing spares. Get the weight down, strengthen legs and ankles so you can get in that good finish position and get your timing right. Maybe a little positive self talk before each shot.

Good luck in next week's card game;)

Aslan

09-11-2023, 02:20 AM

My own thought is that you need to work on your physical game more than practicing spares. Get the weight down, strengthen legs and ankles so you can get in that good finish position and get your timing right. Maybe a little positive self talk before each shot.

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 5

529 Series: 179-182-168

Finally had a decent line with the Odyssey...but the physical game is still in the toilet. A lot of single-pin spares with mixed results. My standard '2-open-frame' performance. 6 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, 9 -, X, 7 -, 9 /, X, X 9 -.

Stuck with the Trident Odyssey until the 8th frame. Almost certainly the furthest I've been able to use it. Most likely because we were bowling the BYE, so the lanes weren't breaking down as fast. This was an even worse version of my typical '2-open-frame' performance in that I left THREE opens. More single-pin leaves with a subpar conversion rate. 9 /, 9 -, X, X, 9 /, X, 9 -, 6 3, X, X 8 /.

Stuck with the Scorpion Sting through till the end. And I think I finally figured out the slight adjustment I need to make when balling down to the Sting from the Odyssey. Kinda thought I should switch to the Force Pearl in the closing frames of Game 3...but I just made a slight loft adjustment instead. Shot 4 strikes in a row (on the left lane), but only once on the right lane...with 3 opens to boot...including the 10th. So, the score is a bit lower than one would expect when they strike 5 times. :(
X, 9 /, X, 7 2, X, 7 2, X, X, 8 /, 5 4.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 43%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (6/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin and 9-pin (3x each).
Also left a single 6-pin, and 10-pin (2x each).

Makeable spares: 47% (8/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 28% (2/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 100% (1/1)

Average over 3 games: 176.33
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 187.33.

Positives
- Starting to figure out the adjustments from the Odyssey to the Sc. Sting.
- Even though we only bowled the bye; helped the team take all 4 points.

Negatives
- 60% on single-pin spares.
- Didn't bowl my average.

Aslan

09-15-2023, 04:27 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 4

580 Series: 221-157-202

7 /, 9 /, 7 2, 9 /, 7 /, X, X, X, X, X 9 /.
Took a bit to get used to the lane conditions. Normally, although Rob and I have debated this, I have found that lane pairs tend to play very similar...in most cases. HOWEVER...that can change depending on a couple factors:

First, is it an 'end' lane? Lanes at the far end of the center tend to show more variance...which I would contend is because they often start oiling at one end or another...meaning you may have a "dump" of oil as the machine starts OR you may have oil evaporate a bit by the time the oil machine gets done with all the lanes.

Second, is the pair near the entrance/exit? Sometimes, the lane closest to the entrance(s) can perform a bit differently.

These lanes were at the far end...and the #1 lane played a good 2-5 deeper than lane #2.

A lot of the strikes were 'weak' or Brooklyn...but I'm happy with the score and only one open.

6 -, 6 -, 6 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, 8 /, X, 6 -, XX6.
Hard to have a good game when 4 of your frames start out with a 6-count. Not to mention 3 opens...one being in the ninth. Switched to the Scorpion Sting in the 6th...but just never got comfortable.

X, 9 /, 7 2, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, 9 -.
Switched to the Force Pearl (FP) in Game 3. And, as usual, the FP was DOMINANT. Amazing ball! I think I need to tweak the surface just a little bit to maintain the length...but it worked great. Big bummer was the missed 4-pin in the 10th. I was perfect on single-pin spares up until then, it happened in the 10th, and it was the only non-split open of Game 3.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 45%
Spares: 64% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 6-pin (2x), and 7-pin (2x).

Makeable spares: 71% (10/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-8 and 3-6-9-10 (2x)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 193.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 197.33.

Positives
- My 221 in the 1st game allowed the team to take the game and total points.
- 7/8 on single-pin spares.
- Did better with the Trident Odyssey.
- Picked up a 5-7 split.

Negatives
- Form is still not back.
- STILL haven't won a card game! I've thrown a 232, 243, 225, and now a 221 where I was the top dog on at least three of those occasions...yet I still can't win a **mn card game!

Aslan

09-20-2023, 03:59 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 6

538 Series: 212-175-151

Have bowled this center enough where I'm starting to understand the line I need to play (on most nights). But, still relying too much on light pins and luck; and not enough on good form. X, 5 3, X, 7 /, 9 -, X, X, X, X, X 9 -.

Read the lanes well enough to know that it was time to switch balls late into Game 1. Made the change at the start of Game 2, the Scorpion Sting just didn't seem to be carrying, so I switched to the Force Pearl in the 9th. X, X, X, 7 1, X, 9 -, 8 -, 9 /, 9 /, 7 /X.

Then, things fell apart. Three splits, terrible shots, etc...
9 /, X, X, 7 2, X, 8 /, 5 1, 5 4, 8 1, 7 /7.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.64 pins
Strikes: 45%
Spares: 41% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (2x).
Also left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, 7-pin, and 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 42% (6/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-8 (2x)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 179.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 187.00.

A couple reasons for the lackluster performance.

First, health issue. I usually wear a knee brace on my slide knee and an elbow strap. Recently, I've also been wearing a knee brace on my right knee as well due to pain I've been having in that knee. Well, all my braces were in the laundry, so I just bowled without them. My slide knee did NOT appreciate that decision and was almost giving out in Game 3. Hard to concentrate on making good shots when you're constantly thinking you're about to collapse onto the floor.

Second, VERY bad single-pin spare shooting. It looks better than it was because I was able to hit a 3-pin and 8-pin. But, on corner pins...1 for 4. And it was that 'thing' that afflicts me so often...I miss one...then another...then I'm done. Once I lose that mental edge, it's a self-fullfilling prophecy.

Positives
- Learning how to play the Trident Odyssey.
- Managed to bowl my average.

Negatives
- Form still not there.
- Scorpion Sting not as strong as I had hoped.
- Corner-pin conversion = toilet.
- Could have helped my team salvage a split if my 3rd game wasn't so awful.

Aslan

09-21-2023, 08:02 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 5

546 Series: 193-188-165

X, - /, X, 9 /, 8 /, 9 -, 9 -, X, X, X 8 /.
After a 4-frame warm-up where I realized where I was supposed to line up and that the Trident Odyssey was just not gonna work. The lanes were playing a bit 'wider' than usual...and the Odyssey just doesn't seem to retain enough energy out there. The Scorpion Sting worked quite a bit better...although my ABYSMAL corner-pin shooting cost me a 200+ game.

X, X, 7 1, 9 -, X, X, 9 -, 9 /, X, X 9 /.
The game went pretty well. Shot my average. But, another couple missed corner-pins through me off. I switched the the Force Pearl in the 10th.

X, 8 -, X, 8 /, 7 2, X, X, 8 -, 8 /, 9 /X.
Didn't leave the corner pins during this game, but 3 splits. I made one, but left a 6-7-10 in the 5th and smashed the pocket in the 8th and was rewarded with a 7-10. Second game in a row where I just couldn't run strikes together.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 48%
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 3-pin, 6-pin, and 7-pin.

Makeable spares: 57% (8/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 66% (4/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 182.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 196.67.

Positives
- Hit my average 2 out of 3 games.
- First game "feeling" better. Better form, posting, release, balance, etc...
- Scorpion Sting finally did well.
- I think I have all my ball-to-ball adjustments.
- FINALLY won a card game!. Weird that it was the 3rd game when I did the worst...but I'll take it!!!

Negatives
- No games 200+.
- 2 for 6 on corner pins! Just terrible.

Aslan

09-25-2023, 01:40 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Not really liking the Sunday league so much. It's a non-serious league and this has been two straight weeks bowling against an absent team. And I "get it"....even I don't really like going to bowl on Sunday night when I'd rather just stay home and relax...but, live and learn. Maybe drop this league and join another one during the week next fall.

Week 7

561 Series: 189-171-201

Could NOT find my line to save my life. Thought I'd start with the Trident...then switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS)...then back to the Trident, and ultimately back to the SS. Only "good news" was that I kept things clean after the 1st frame. 5 2, 7 /, 9 /, 6 /, X, 9 /, 9 /, X, X, 8 /X.

Same as Game 1, except stuck it out with the SS. Unfortunately, still couldn't really find my line...and spare shooting wasn't as decent.
6 /, 7 2, 8 1, 9 /, 9 /, X, 8 1, X, X, 9 /X.

Stayed with the SS on the right lane...but switched to the Rhino Gold on the left lane, in the 8th. **** poor corner-pin shooting cost me a good score...but the triple in the 9th/10th helped salvage the 200+.
X, X, 8 /, 9 -, X, 9 -, X, 9 /, X, XX7.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.85 pins
Strikes: 44%
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 77% (7/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin and 10-pin (3x each).
Also left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, and 5-pin.

Makeable spares: 66% (12/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-9 (2x)

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 187.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 195.00.

It's hard to adjust my system to bowling against an absent team. The lanes just don't break down as fast...so...IF I get the right ball and am lined up right...I can score very well. But, I don't go through the usual progression, because the lanes aren't broken down as much.

Positives
- Physical game still feeling almost back to normal.
- Helped team take all 4 points.

Negatives
- Corner-pin conversion = toilet...for the 3rd straight outing. The stats are deceptive...I only went 2 for 4 on corner pins...I went 5 for 5 on single, middle pins.

Aslan

09-28-2023, 04:23 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 6

598 Series: 203-171-224

9 /, X, X, X 8 /, 9 /, 8 /, 6 -, X, X 7 2.
Did not like the Trident Odyssey in practice and decided to start with the Scorpion Sting (SS). REALLY wanted a clean game, but a 2-4-8-10 split killed that in the 8th.

X, 9 /, X, X, 8 1, X, 7 /, 8 /, 9 - 8 1.
Despite the decent start, I switched to the Rhino Gold (RG) in the 3rd. That didn't work out so well. But, the SS line was too tight and I just thought the up-and-in up the outside with the RG was a better option. But, you can't open in the 10th, much less the 9th AND 10th, and expect to score well.

7 2, X, X, X, X, X, 8 1, 9 /, 9 /, XXX.
After opening in the 1st frame, I had enough. Time for the "big gun"...out came the Force Pearl...which I just surfaced prior to coming to the lanes. Wet sanded it (6-sided) with a 1000 abralon, put it in the dehydrator for a couple hours, used Storm Step 2 (6-sided), then finished with resin polish (6-sided). I can also sort of thank the anchor on the other team...especially for striking out...because he was being a total douche, upset with himself that he wasn't striking, so he started getting all bent out of shape every time someone on our team would get a strike that he didn't think was 'perfect'. That just motivated me to pour it on. Score shoulda been in the upper 240s...but I nailed the pocket in the 7th and was rewarded with a 7-10 split. :mad:

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.06 pins
Strikes: 51%
Spares: 56% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 3-pin and 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 2-pin and 4-pin.

Makeable spares: 69% (9/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 57% (4/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 199.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 202.67.

Positives
- Two games 200+!
- Force Pearl remains a BEAST!
- Helped my team salvage a point on a night most of them were bowling like 'poo poo' and the other team was bowling well above average.

Negatives
- No clean games. Still opening , on average, twice per game...which holds down the score.
- JUST shy of a 600 series.
- Starting to think I might not have a spot for the Trident Odyssey. It seems to burn up when I throw it up the outside, and I don't have the hand to bring it back if I throw a more aggressive line.

Timmyb

09-29-2023, 08:35 PM

That's a decent night!

Aslan

10-02-2023, 10:59 AM

That's a decent night!
Best one so far as I get back into bowling form. Still a lot of work to do though.

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 8

561 Series: 174-208-179

Same as Wednesday, I started out with the Odyssey in practice but didn't feel comfortable with it...so I started off with the Scorpion Sting (SS) instead. Too inconsistent to score well.
X, X, 7 1, X, 6 -, X, 7 /, X, 8 /, X 7 2.

Stayed with the SS and came close to a decent game. Didn't have the usual miss room outside. Missed right in the 4th and left the 2-8. Pulled the shot a little in the 8th and left the 3-6. The open on a 3-6-9 conversion in the 9th really cost me.
X, X, X, 8 1, X, X, X, 8 /, 7 2, X8-.

Stuck with the SS for a few frames in Game 3 before moving to the Force Pearl. Got screwed in the 9th with a pocket 7-10 where the 10-pin finally fell...but I missed the 7-pin by about an inch and a half.
X, 9 /, 8 1, X, 7 /, 7 /, X, X, 9 -, 9 /8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 51%
Spares: 46% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (2/3)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin (2x).
Also left a single 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 66% (7/12)
Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% 0/3

Average over 3 games: 187.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 190.67.

It's hard to adjust my system to bowling against an absent team. The lanes just don't break down as fast...so...IF I get the right ball and am lined up right...I can score very well. But, I don't go through the usual progression, because the lanes aren't broken down as much.

Positives
- Physical game still feeling almost back to normal.
- Bowled the same series total (561) as last week...which is above my average.
- Managed a 200+ game.
- Strike rate over 50% and most of them were solid strikes.

Negatives
- Knees and achilles are sore.
- Despite my efforts, team lost all 4 points.
- Might not be able to use the Odyssey on these lanes.

Trying to focus on losing some weight to take some pressure off my knees. It feels like I have a slight LCL tear on my push-off knee and an aggravated MCL on my slide knee. I need to bend my slide knee to get leverage on the ball, but once I get to a certain point (of knee bend), there's a terribly sharp pain and the knee almost gives out.

J Anderson

10-02-2023, 10:39 PM

Most bowlers wouldn’t complain about lanes not transitioning fast enough. Even so I don’t know very many who look forward to bowling the blind. For some of us the pace is just not right especially after a bad frame when you don’t have time to clear your mind and reset. For others it just doesn’t feel right to not have a team to bowl against.

Good luck with losing the excess weight.

Aslan

10-05-2023, 07:32 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 7

475 Series: 159-151-165

S8 /, S7 1, 8 /, X, X, X, S5 2, 9 /, 8 -, 8 1.
Did not "love" the Trident Odyssey in practice, but given you only have time to throw 3 balls with 10mins of warmup and 5-man teams...I decided to give it a chance. Just horrible. Granted, 3 splits didn't help...but it was pretty much just bad bowling. Terrible balance at the foul line and missed shots. Just horrid.

9 -, S8 /, 7 /, 6 1, 7 /, 7 -, X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /X.
Stayed with the Odyssey through 8 more frames. Using my system, it's hard to determine if it's "the ball" or if I'm lined up incorrectly (as in angle). It seemed like my line from previous weeks wasn't right...it was too "tight". But, as usual, as soon as I ventured inside of 10...either I jerked it through the nose or missed well right. Switched the Force Pearl in the 9th.

9 /, X, 6 /, 9 /, 8 /, 6 2, S7 2, 7 /, S8 /, 8 /9.
Thought maybe I could salvage a 500-550 series if I had a really good 3rd game. That didn't happen. After throwing 8 strikes in Game 3 last week, I managed only ONE this time around.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.16 pins
Strikes: 18%
Spares: 64% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 4-pin and 6-pin.

Makeable spares: 72% (13/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 63% (7/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-8-10 (2x)

Splits: 42% (3/7)

Average over 3 games: 158.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 161.33.

Positives
- 4 for 4 on 10-pins?
- 42% on splits...don't see that very often...
- Picked up a 1-2-8-10...even though I missed where I was aiming and had to rely on a pin bouncing back into the 10. It looked cool anyways.

Negatives
- Pretty much everything... I have a 1st ball I can't figure out how to use. My form was garbage. My aim was garbage. And, even when I hit the da** pocket...it left me a 10-pin or some other goofy nonsense!

I don't "hate" bowling very often...but I was ready to go home part way through Game 2. My team would have been better off if they just used my average tonight. :( And this is where coaching is SO important. I had bad nights back in 2015/2016...but I had two coaches...and I could go to either of them and say, "I've been struggling with balance" or "I can't find a line for this ball", or "I missed most of my 10-pins", etc... and they would watch me throw 1-2 shots and say, "Okay, I think I see the problem...let's try this." and BOOM! Problem solved.

Aslan

10-09-2023, 03:40 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 8

554 Series: 181-212-161

Tried to stick it out most of Game 1 with the Trident Odyssey. Wanted to see if I could throw it up the 2nd arrow...if it wasn't too strong. Made it through about 6 frames, but it just didn't seem to have the energy out there. I might modify the surface a bit to smooth it out a little. The game was actually going fine until I missed a 10-pin in the 10th.
X, 9 /, X, 9 /, 9 /, 7 /, 9 -, X, X, 9 -.

Used the Scorpion Sting to close out Game 1 and through the 8th frame of Game 2. Chopped a 3-9 in the 2nd and missed a 7-pin in the 8th. Once I moved to the Force Pearl (9th), it was lights out (X, XX9).
X, 8 1, X, X, X, 7 /, X, 9 -, X, XX9.

A lot of nice hits with the Force Pearl, but I also wasn't making very good shots. I still had a shot to finish strong and put the other team away...but I couldn't convert a 1-2-4-10 washout in the 10th for the third open of the game. Just can't open that much in a game and expect to score high.
X, 9 /, 9 -, X, 9 /, 6 3, X, 9 /, X, 6 3.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.16 pins
Strikes: 50%
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (6/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 2-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin (2x), and 9-pin (2x).

Makeable spares: 53% (8/15)
Multiple Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: N/A

Average over 3 games: 184.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 200.67.

Just didn't have it tonight. I was off-balanced, having trouble posting shots, my aim was off...blah blah blah.

Positives
- Bowled above my average.
- Managed a 200+ game.
- My Game 2 performance helped us take Game 2 and 3 out of 4...against the 2nd place team.

Negatives
- Lost the team a point due to my Game 1 performance.
- If it wasn't for my anchor coming through (and their anchor bowling a split in the 10th), my poor Game 3 performance would have lost us Game 3.

This arsenal is really going to test the theory that a more expensive ball isn't necessarily a better ball. If I have to leave the Odyssey in the bag, and start with the Scorpion Sting...maybe use the Vintage Gold Rhino from time to time and finish things off with the Force Pearl; that really shows how more expensive balls aren't necessarily better...and can be worse...than lower-priced balls. At the same time, if I make that same move and there seems to be a "limit" to what I can bowl that is due to the technology of the balls...perhaps there is something to higher-priced balls.

Aslan

10-13-2023, 02:33 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 8

610 Series: 205-177-228 (clean)

8 /, X, 8 /, X, X, X, X, 8 1, 9 -, 9 /X.
Started out with the Trident Odyssey and switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS) in the 9th. Managed to run enough strikes together to get a decent score, but my only single-pin miss of the night (in the 9th) really hurt me.

X, 6 /, 6 2, 9 /, 9 /, X, X, 8 /, 9 /, 8 1.
Game wasn't as bad as the score ended up being. Opened in the 10th when I chopped my SECOND 2-8 of the night :mad:. Stuck with the SS until the 9th, when I switched to the Force Pearl (FP).

X, 8 /, X, 9 /, X, X, X, X, 9 /, X 6 3.
Keeping this game clean was really the difference between Game 3 and Game 1. Another strong game for the FP, and my second clean game of the season.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.03 pins
Strikes: 50%
Spares: 68% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 5-pin, and 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 68% (11/16)
Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-8 (2x)

Splits: N/A

Average over 3 games: 203.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 206.67.

Positives
- Only 1 missed corner pin (4/5).
- No splits (7 less than last week).
- Averaged over 200.
- Helped my team take all 4 points.

Negatives
- Gotta stop opening in the 9th and/or 10th.
- Could really start to score consistently well if I could avoid pulling some shots...which requires my timing to get 100% back.
- Sore (elbow, shoulder, calf, knee).

Overall a good night. My point total definitely helped the team take all 4...as the 3rd game was terribly close. Surfaced all 3 balls (used tonight) recently. Surfaced the SS to 1500 and the FP to it's usual polished state. So, took some minor adjustments since the SS didn't have it's usual backend motion and the FP wasn't making as strong a move on the backend. Helped not having 7 splits (last week's total) tonight.

boomer

10-13-2023, 12:23 PM

nice evening!

Aslan

10-16-2023, 03:57 PM

nice evening!

ANDddddd.****!

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 9

481 Series: 178-127-176

The Trident Odyssey (TO) seemed to be working in practice, so I stuck with it in Game 1. I had a great line to the pocket and my form wasn't awful. Switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS) in the 7th...which wasn't a bad ball change given I went X, X, 8 -, XXX to finish. BUT....you have to make at least ONE spare if you want to make your average. Just unacceptably abysmal performance in the spare shooting department. I think I struck out just because I was angry.
X, 9 -, X, X, 9 -, 9 -, X, X, 8 -, XXX.

Used the SS for the first 5 frames...but my line was just too tight. I changed to the Rhino Gold (RG) and tried to open it up...while still staying outside...but it was abysmal. One of my worst games in a LONG time. The only highlight was a 5-7 conversion to start the game.
S8 /, 8 1, 7 2, X, 7 1, 7 1, 8 /, X, 7 2, 9 -.

After one frame with the RG, I switched to the Force Pearl (FP). Took me a frame to adjust, but then I did pretty well. I just got penalized with splits when I missed. It took me till the 3rd game to finally pick up a single-pin.
9 /, 8 1, X, X, 9 /, S6 2, 8 /, X, 9 /, X S5 1.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.79 pins
Strikes: 42%
Spares: 31% picked up

Single Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Also left a single 4-pin (2x), 5-pin, and 7-pin (2x).

Makeable spares: 31% (5/16)
Multiple Pin spares: 22% (2/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (4x)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 160.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 175.33.

Positives
- Picked up a 5-10.

Negatives
- Terrible carry.
- My line felt too tight most of the night.
- I was battling a headache all night.
- We lost all 4 points.
- Strike rate was garbage.
- Could not make a spare for about 2 entire games.

Oh well. Last Wednesday I had a really good series...felt like I was "back". This week, it feels like I might as well just call it a season and see about getting my right knee (non-sliding) looked at. The left knee is always a little sore...just because it endures the lion's share of the weight when I slide. But, something happened to the right knee and doctors are clueless in dealing with it. They just gave me a flimsy brace to wear. How long do I have to wear it? Who knows? Their (doctors) best advice is to wear compression socks and a knee brace for the rest of my life I guess. God forbid they actually diagnose the problem and fix it. Maybe once ya hit 45 they figure you're not worth putting in the cost/effort. Like an old car. Why spend thousands of dollars on a car thats only worth $300?

Still gotta work on my balance and getting low. Even though "getting low" nearly causes my knee to buckle. But if I don't get low, I lose all the leverage on the shot and end up tying to spin the ball with my hand/elbow. So, still some things to work on before I'm back in 'game shape'. And my hopes of getting mack into the 190s (average) took a big hit last night. I think I'm down to 179 in that league now (185 in the other one).

Aslan

10-20-2023, 07:17 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 9

Get ready...you may see something you'll never see again...a person throwing a 250+ game and not ending up with a 600 series...striking less than 50% and picking up around 20% of single-pins...yet still being over 550. So, brace yourself. You may need motion sickness medication for what you're about to witness.

586 Series: 130-197-259 (clean)

6 3, 9 -, X, 5 /, 9 -, X, 9 -, 7 /, 8 1, 9 -. :mad:
Threw the Scorpion Sting (SS) really well in practice and got a LOT of practice as most of our team and the other team were late. So, I felt loose and goo about my ball choice coming in. Then it started. :(

A left side bucket that I chop...I adjust right.
A 2-pin...need to adjust right.
Strike! Okay, I'm good.
A 1-2-7-8-9...nope, I need to keep moving right.

So at that point, about a half a game in, I figured they must not have oiled the lanes or something. So, I switch to the Rhino Gold (RG) and figure I'll use my "dry lane ball".

Weak hit...I leave a 6-pin...I adjust right.
Strike!...good, must be on track.
2-4-7 on another weak hit!!

So, time to start over. Maybe the lanes have too much oil tonight, a wider pattern or more volume? So, I take out the Trident Odyssey (TO) and move back to where I started.

2-8...same thing...move right.
10th frame...single 8-pin on another weak hit!

7 -, 7 /, 9 /, 8 /, 8 -, X, X, X, X, 8 /9.
Game went surprisingly well...it just took 5 FRAMES to FINALLY find a line that WORKED!

X, 6 /, X, X, X, X, X, X, X, 9 /X.
Despite the strong finish, I was still tempted to pull out the Force Pearl (FP)...my BEST ball...and the only one I hadn't tried tonight. But...I didn't know if carry down was a problem...and I FINALLY found a line that was working...I didn't want to mess it up. It ended up being a good call. Pushed the shot bad in the 2nd...and got a couple lucky strikes in there where the ball seemed to strike even though I was a little left of target...but the ball and line were just working. After striking in the 9th, I thought...I could get a 280 which would be my highest score ever...on the SAME night I threw a 130...on the SAME lanes. But, 10-pin...and thank GOD I figured out how to pick up spares in the 2nd game...because a 9 - in the 10th would have deflated me!

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.84 pins
Strikes: 46%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 33% (2/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (2x)
Also left a single 5-pin, 6-pin, 8-pin, and 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 57% (8/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-8 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 195.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 209.67.

Positives
- Obviously, a 250+ game. While these are a dime a dozen for TimmyB and company...very rare for ole Aslan.
- Bowled above my average on the night.
- Helped my team take 3 of 4 points from a VERY good team.
- I won TWO card games...an even more rare of a feat than me being over 250 in a game!

Negatives
- FOUR missed single-pins in the first game...including the 10th frame. Ya just can't do that.
- Gonna have to find a coach or something. I need some additional strategies for balls hitting weak...than to just keep moving right.
- Very sore (right?) knee and the Achilles was sore. I may end up having to get knee surgery after the season.

I'm too mentally unstable to have nights like Wednesday night. In game 1, I was thinking about quitting the season...maybe quit bowling for good. I was legitimately depressed. Then, once things turned around after the 4th frame of Game 2...I was on cloud 9. Bowling a 250+ game is a very good anti-depressant!

Aslan

10-24-2023, 12:26 AM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 10

544 Series: 178-165-201

Wasn't a "bad" game...but when you get two splits and open on a 2-pin and a 6-10...about as much as I could hope for. :mad:
9 /, X, X, S8 1, 9 -, X, X, X, 8 -, S8 1.

Kept with the Trident Odyssey until the 8th frame...when I pulled out the Force Pearl.
S7 2, X, 7 2, X, X, 9 -, 9 /, X, 6 2, XX5.

Ball change worked well. Had to adjust a frame, but then it was 7 strikes on 10 first balls. Terrible single-pin shooting continued.
7 /, X, X, X, 9 /, X, X, 6 3, 9 -, X 9 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 51%
Spares: 26% picked up

Single Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (2x).
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 33% (4/12)
Multiple Pin spares: 20% (1/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 181.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 192.67.

Positives
- Team took 3 out of 4.
- Increased my average by 1-2 pins. Back over 180 in this league.
- The Odyssey at the 3000 finish is pretty smooth.

Negatives
- This spare shooting is getting to be really, really annoying!

Overall good night. Two nights in a row where I had a 200+ game as part of the series. After 2 straight nights shooting a 120-130 game. So, improvement.

boomer

10-25-2023, 12:00 PM

so I take it your two misses (2 pin and 1-2-7-8-9) were very light (miss right) so you moved right?

What's your benchmark ball? My Teal Rhino (Mr. Teal) is so communicative about lane conditions that I can throw him in practice and get a pretty good read on what the lanes are doing. Long tournament - he tells me he's not strong enough OR I'll have to go very straight (which I did to begin with, but too many others were going straight as well and he told me it was time to get out of rush-hour and move way left and use a strong ball). House and parties on it - he tells me that it's gonna be "fun" . . . LOL

Aslan

10-26-2023, 05:28 PM

so I take it your two misses (2 pin and 1-2-7-8-9) were very light (miss right) so you moved right?

What's your benchmark ball?. . . LOL

Yeah. Usually on a 2-pin leave...not counting where I push the shot right...I'll make a 1:2 move right. The problem is...like everyone has sort of said...if you're not consistent in your release and speed...then it's not always the line. I will post last night's results here shortly...where I asked my teammate to look at my ball speed...because I always forget to look...but I had a feeling my ball speed was creeping up (it was...about 1-2mph higher than normal)...and that can leave the same type of 2-pin, 5-pin, 8-pin weak hits.

Aslan

10-27-2023, 02:30 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 10

574 Series: 209-179-186

9 /, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, S7 -, 9 /, 9 /X
Not a bad game. Only open was a split. The Trident Odyssey with a 3000 surface was really smooth.

S6 2, X, X, 9 /, 7 1, 7 /, 8 /, X, 9 /, X 6 3.
Started off with a Big 4. Struck twice, but was hitting light so I switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS). But, I really need to fix the surface on the SS. I got off my line and the entire game was just treading water.

9 /, 8 /, 7 1, 8 /, X, X, X, 6 3, 6 /, X 9 -.
Switched to the Force Pearl. Didn't have time to touch up the surface, but it still rolled well. I just didn't execute as well as I was earlier.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.73 pins
Strikes: 42%
Spares: 63% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left a single 4-pin, 6-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin (2x each).

Makeable spares: 70% (12/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 191.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 191.67.

Positives
- Bowled above my average.
- Helped my team take 3 of 4 points from a VERY good team.
- Better spare shooting.
- I won a card game.

Negatives
- Humidity caused the approaches to be very tacky.
- Very sore (right?) knee and the Achilles.
- Two games below my average.

Had a ball speed problem. Sometimes I start to throw faster (> 15mph)...and it messes with my 'system' because I think I have to move right or switch balls...when really I just needed a consistent speed. The lead guy on their team was really, really struggling! He's a 200-average bowler with some really high games. But, he was crushing the pocket and leaving all kinds of single-pins...and uncharacteristically missing the single-pair leaves. Their whole team is well north of 180 averages. On elf their guys is the league high average with a 230 average. We were getting 153 pins of handicap and in Game 1 we beat them scratch. Yikes! They managed to take the second game, but we got 3 out of 4.

Aslan

10-30-2023, 03:55 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 11

513 Series: 167-172-174

Really struggled to find a good line. Ended up playing around 6-7 with the Scorpion Sting...but it was a pretty tight line.
8 /, 7 /, 9 -, X, 7 /, X, 6 /, 8 /, 6 2, 9 /X.

Made a couple ball changes. Switched to the Rhino Gold in the 6th...used it for two frames...then switched to the Force Pearl (FP). Once I switched to the FP it was X, X, X 9 -. That ball is amazingly effective...especially for a ball with such a high RG (2.53).
X, - 6, 9 -, X, S8 -, 8 /, 7 /, X, X, X 9 -.

Ball change seemed to work, but my shot-making was in flux. Just had trouble making consistent shots for some reason.
9 /, X, X, 8 /, 9 -, X, S8 1, 9 /, S5 2, XX8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.44 pins
Strikes: 38%
Spares: 55% picked up

Single Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x).
Also left a single 2-pin (2x), 4-pin, and 6-pin.

Makeable spares: 64% (11/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 80% (8/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 171.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 183.00.

Positives
- Team took 3 out of 4...against a really good team.
- Force Pearl still looks great.
- Much, much better spare shooting (multi-pin).
- Form/timing seemed "okay".

Negatives
- More abysmal spare shooting (single pins).
- Bad shot making...a few pulls and way too many pushes.
- Never even shot my average...not once.

I'm not gonna complain about winning 3 out of 4. I bowled "below average", but we survived.

Aslan

11-03-2023, 12:27 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 11. (Position Round)

We are sitting at #2 and played the league leaders tonight. We had to spot them about 140 pins.

525 Series: 173-152-200

6 3, X, X, S8 1, X, 6 /, X, 8 1, 9 /, X 6 /.
Too many opens and too few strikes run together to score. Used the Trident Odyssey (TO) the entire game. Might try to take off some more surface so it's not as big a transition from the TO to the Scorpion Sting (SS).

X, 9 /, 7 2, 9 /, 6 /, X, S6 -, X, 9 -, X 9 /.
Same problem as Game 1...but less strikes and an open in the 9th. Switched to the SS in the 4th and stuck with it.

8 /, S8 1, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X 8 -, X 9 /.
Stuck with the SS. A couple opens, but one was in the 9th. Only difference was that I was able to run some strikes together.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.79 pins
Strikes: 45%
Spares: 55% picked up

Single Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 6-pin and 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 2-pin, 3-pin, and 5-pin.

Makeable spares: 66% (10/15)
Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4-8 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 175.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 179.00.

Positives
- Team took 3 out of 4 and we should be tied for 1st.
- Knee feeling a little better.

Negatives
- Two games below average.
- Average fell to 186.

Just didn't make very many good shots and was inconsistent. Gonna work on the surfaces of the TO and SS. The performance of the SS is quite a bit lower than the TO...even though the specs are very similar. Gonna try to remove some surface from the TO and add some surface to the SS. See if that closes the gap a bit.

Aslan

11-06-2023, 01:06 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 12

Our fourth/female bowler finally arrived to bowl with us. She had missed the first 11 weeks recovering from a surgery (hip...I think). Granted, she was limited to just going up on the approach and tossing a house ball left-handed (she's a righty). I think she averaged 48. That should really tick off our opponents the rest of the year when she doesn't show and we carry that much handicap...but, we're also getting an absent score of 48...so it should all work out.

618 Series: 203-212-203

Started with the Trident Odyssey (TO) in Game 1. I had to move a little right to get a good line...but once I found one...it was very smooth.
8 /, X, S8 /, X, X, X, 9 /, 9 -, X, 8 /6.

Switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS) in Game 2. Stuck with it through 7 frames before giving way to the Force Pearl (FP).
S7 1, 9 /, X, X, X, X, 9 /, 7 /, 9 /, X S7 2.

Ball change seemed to work, but my shot-making was in flux. Just had trouble making consistent shots for some reason.
Once I made a slight adjustment in the end of Game 2, the FP was performing very well (as usual). Would have been a clean 220-240 game had I not missed TWO single 2-pins. Just didn't quite move right enough to account for the lanes being so heavy with oil in the center.
X, 9 -, 9 /, X, X, X, X, 7 /, 9 -, 8 /X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.03 pins
Strikes: 48%
Spares: 68% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin, 7-pin, and 10-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 4-pin, and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 76% (10/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 100% (5/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 (2x)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 206.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 217.00.

Positives
- First time since 9/21/21 that I managed all 3 games above 200.
- Made all my multi-pin spares...first time I did that in who knows how long.
- Team took all 4 points from the 1st place team.
- Nice to have a full team, even though one bowler is significantly limited.

Negatives
- No clean games....still struggling with spares.
- Got LUCKY...a LOT. Can't rely on that moving forward.
- My sweep leg knee, Achilles, shoulder, and elbow are anywhere from "annoyingly sore" to "virtually destroyed".

I think my right knee issues are related to my leg sweep. The Achilles is aggravated because of that leg essentially DRIVING me forward. But, the right knee seems to be because I'm using it to balance. But, unlike the left knee...the right knee is getting that weight applied to the side of it...where it's not built to support weight. Essentially, it'd be like laying on your side and placing a small child on the side of one knee...verusus putting a child on your knee in it's normal (up/down) configuation. You can support a LOT of weight on one knee...but not if you turn your leg sideways.

So, while I'm really happy with my performance...my knee and Achilles are so "shot" today...that I may have to have surgery when the season ends (if I can wait that long). Usually, by Wednesday, my knee will be well enough to do PT (physical therapy)...but I don't know. It seems like the better I bowl, the more my knee and Achilles hurt. Probably because I'm getting lower and keeping my swing leg on the floor...posting my shots, etc...

Timmyb

11-07-2023, 04:49 PM

Well done!

Aslan

11-10-2023, 05:32 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 12

We're now in 1st place...so looks like we'll have to wear the target on our back for awhile.

527 Series: 136-152-240

9 -, 9 /, 8 1, 9 -, X, 9 /, 9 /, S7 2, 8 /, S8 -.
Was hitting light in practice and thought the Scorpion Sting (SS) might be the better option. Just terrible game. Hit the pocket a LOT...but it'd alwyas leave the 10-pin or 7-pin. Finally resorted to the Rhino Gold in the 9th, but it was even WORSE!! :mad:

9 -, 9 /, 7 2, X, 9 /, 8 1, 9 /, 8 /, 6 /, 7 /8.
Tried out the Trident Odyssey (TO) until switching back to the SS in the 8th frame. FORTUNATELY (or unfortunately, depending on how you look at it), my teammate mentioned to me late into Game 2 that he noticed my speed was a bit high. UH, YEAH!! It was more than a BIT high. I was FIRING that ball. My usual speed is in the 13-16 range...it's been closer to 13 with my form still a work in progress. Well, I was firing that ball over 17! Now, if my form was better...and my release optimal...and I had more surface on the ball...I can get away with 17-17.5. But, thats with everything working.

6 /, 9 /, X, X, X, X, 5 3, X, X, XXX.
I couldn't get my speed down without messing up my timing, so I just moved up a foot on the approach...which forces me to slow down. Suddenly, I was just shredding the pins. Didn't even need to pull out the Force Pearl. Could have been my highest sanctioned score ever had I not pulled a shot into the nose and left a 4-6-7-9-10 split.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.67 pins
Strikes: 33%
Spares: 57% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin and 10-pin (4x each)
Also left a single 2-pin.

Makeable spares: 70% (12/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: 5-9 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 175.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 186.00.

Positives
- Figured out maybe what to look for. A ball that doesn't make a move...so many causes...maybe I need to look at ball speed before assuming the ball is burning up and I need to make a ball change.
- Knee feeling a little better.
- Won the card game for Game 3!

Negatives
- Obviously...really puts a damper on a good score when you're garbage for two games.
- Average fell to 185.

I always tell myself that if I hit the pocket, good things will happen. That's not always true. But, I ALSO tell myself that it's not a failure if you learn from it...and, while the first part of the night was PAINFUL...I learned what I was doing wrong...and it's an easy fix. And, we split with the other team, so hopefully I didn't hurt the team too bad.

J Anderson

11-10-2023, 06:13 PM

My left-handed teammate started Thursday by leaving 4 straight seven pins and only made one of them.

Good thing your teammate noticed your speed.

Aslan

11-13-2023, 10:53 AM

My left-handed teammate started Thursday by leaving 4 straight seven pins and only made one of them.

Good thing your teammate noticed your speed.

Bowling is weird, kinda like golf...ya see other players struggling, but you're not sure if you should offer advice or not. My team in Iowa had the opposite problem, sometimes they would be almost "hostile" and demand that I resurface my balls or move outside. My new teammates (KS) are more hesitant.

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 13

602 Series: 194-151-257

Started with the Trident Odyssey (TO) in Game 1. I had to move a little as I adapted to the new 3000 surface. Poor spare shooting cost me BIG...about 43 points. 8 1, X, 9 -, X, 9 -, X, X, X, X, 9 /X.

Continued with the (TO) in Game 2 through 6 frames; then moved to the Force Pearl (FP). The (FP) did okay, but I needed to adjust my shot to the outside and it took about 4 frames to get it where I needed to be. Three splits really killed me. 9 /, S7 -, 6 /, X S8 1, X, X, 6 2, 8 /, S7 2.

Admittingly, there was some degree of luck involved here. At least one strike was brooklyn, one strike was the 4-pin hitting the 2-pin into the 1-pin, and at least one strike was through the nose. But, 9th highest (top 10!) game (league/tournament) I've ever thrown. 7 2, X, X, X, 8 /, X, X, X, X, XXX.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.12 pins
Strikes: 60%
Spares: 38% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (2/4)
Most common single-pin leaves: n/a
Left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, 7-pin, and 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 50% (5/10)
Multiple Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5-8 bucket (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 200.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 208.67.

Positives
- Highest game (257) since 8/10/2021 (267); 9th highest score to date.
- Team split versus a really good team.

Negatives
- No clean games.
- Luck definitely played a part. Not gonna get away with that stuff on a non-THS.
- Spare Shooting HORRIBLE! :mad:

Battled my speed tending to be higher in Game 1 than Game 3...by starting a foot closer to the line, then moving back a half-foot (Game 2), then back another half-foot (Game 3). Worked fairly well. Rather than starting out throwing 16-17mph and waiting till I tire out by Game 3 when I start throwing 12-13mph...the adjustment kept me in the 12-14mph range.

My current 10 highest games (league/tournament...not open bowling):
Tied for 1st: 268 (6/7/21) and 268 (5/15/19).
Tied for 3rd: 267 (8/10/21), 267 (4/21/17), 267 (10/28/16), 267 (10/22/15).
7th Place: 266 (3/1/17)
8th Place: 264 (6/21/21)
9th Place: 259 (10/18/23)
10th Place: 258 (4/25/16)

The stats are pretty clear...a 60% strike rate partially concealed abysmal spare shooting. Maybe I need to add some spare-shooting practice to this week's to-do list.

Aslan

11-13-2023, 11:14 AM

As for which balls have resulted in my highest games:

My current 10 highest games (league/tournament...not open bowling):
Tied for 1st:
268 (6/7/21) (Storm Optimus Solid)
268 (5/15/19) (Ebonite Warning Sign).
Tied for 3rd:
267 (8/10/21) (Pyramid Force Pearl),
267 (4/21/17) (Hammer Scandal Pearl),
267 (10/28/16) (Radical Reax Pearl),
267 (10/22/15) (Brunswick Lethal Revolver).
7th Place: 266 (3/1/17) (Ebonite Innovate)
8th Place: 264 (6/21/21) (Storm Optimus Solid)
9th Place: 259 (10/18/23) (Pyramid Force Pearl)
10th Place: 258 (4/25/16) (Columbia300 Dark Encounter)

Surprised to the Dark Encounter make the list...wasn't a great ball (overall) for me. VERY surprised to see the Optimus Solid on there TWICE! That ball was mostly horrible.

The Ebonite Warning Sign turned out to be a ball that was much better than I thought it would be. It had "weird specs"...but I did pretty well with it. However, the Innovate being on the list doesn't surprise me at all. It was a very smooth ball...really good "ball down" option for me.

The Reax Pearl, Scandal Pearl, and Lethal Revolver being on the list is expected...three of the best balls I've thrown. And, obviously, the Force Pearl is on there twice...I just can't say enough good things about that ball. I'm gonna miss it when I retire it at the end of the season and replace it with the Radical Zing.

Surprised the Loaded Revolver and Fortera Exile didn't make the list; both are on my favorites list. However, the Loaded Revolver 'just' got bumped...I threw a 257 with it back in 2/24/16. And the Fortera Exile had a LOT of games (over 20) in the 200+ range...just nothing higher than a 247 back on 1/26/21.

J Anderson

11-13-2023, 01:26 PM

Bowling is weird, kinda like golf...ya see other players struggling, but you're not sure if you should offer advice or not. My team in Iowa had the opposite problem, sometimes they would be almost "hostile" and demand that I resurface my balls or move outside. My new teammates (KS) are more hesitant

The stats are pretty clear...a 60% strike rate partially concealed abysmal spare shooting. Maybe I need to add some spare-shooting practice to this week's to-do list.

I do not like to coach while I am bowling. I feel like I need 100% focus on what I’m trying to do. I don’t want to use any of it trying to “fix” any of my teammates. When I do coach someone who is in the midst of competition, I usually stick with easy adjustments, moving their feet, changing their target etc. They certainly aren’t going to be able to fix a flaw in their technique during a game.

I have no idea how many times I’ve heard or read this but it’s a lot; ‘Every time you practice you should spend part of the time working on spares’.

boomer

11-14-2023, 12:24 PM

Only one who might be able to give me some input (on my team) would be my wife, and that's only that I'm rushing or that I'm talking to myself too much - good that you have a teammate who can give you some assistance.

Aslan

11-16-2023, 12:39 PM

I have no idea how many times I’ve heard or read this but it’s a lot; ‘Every time you practice you should spend part of the time working on spares’.

For me, its easy. Other than trying to figure out a new arsenal...which is rare...I ONLY practice spares. Practicing your shot is almost impossible given the effects of oil patterns on today's game. You'll end up trying to move way inside to battle oil that has been soaked up...or moving too far right trying to battle oil that has been pushed downlane by open bowlers. There's no sense to it...unless you're just working on form/timing...which I can do with a swing trainer.

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 13

In first place, but missing our anchor and playing a team that got about 174 pins of handicap...essentially a 6th bowler worth of pins.

Was trying out my new speed control strategy...starting a foot closer to the foul line and moving back a half a foot each game...to battle my tendency to throw the ball too hard early on.

563 Series: 140-248 (clean)-175

S6 2, 6 3, X, X, S7 1, 7 -, X, 6 1, 9 /, X 8 1.
Not sure if I adjusted my speed "too much" or if I just was having my usual game 1 struggles of trying to find my balance and timing. But, the same terrible results.

9 /, 9 /, X, 8 /, 9 /, X, X, X, X, XXX.
Switched from the Trident Odyssey (TO) to the Scorpion Sting (SS). Had to adjust much further right than I thought...despite dropping the TO surface to 4000 and increasing the SS surface to 3000. However, once I got dialed in, it was clear sailing. A couple lucky hits...but also some very good shots.

X, 9 /, X, S8 1, X, 9 /, 6 /, 9 /, 6 /, 9 /7.
Stuck with the SS...but lost my line and could never get it back. However, I was bowling terribly, from an aim perspective, so it was more my mechanics and poor targeting than anything.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.74 pins
Strikes: 44%
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (8/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (4x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin, and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 73% (11/15)
Multiple Pin spares: 42% (3/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4-5 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 187.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a

Positives
- First clean game in awhile.
- 100% on single-pin spares.
- Team probably took about 3 points...won't know for sure until next week as we had a sub that was establishing.
- First night winning TWO of the three card games!

Negatives
- Another Game 1 flop!

I can't really come away from this game with a negative outlook. Any night I can bowl a clean game is a good night. And, any game I can go 100% on single-pins is a good night. Would I prefer to have more than one game above my average? Yes. It's irritating to have a 108 point swing from game to game. But, the goods outweighed the bad tonight.

Aslan

11-16-2023, 01:30 PM

I tried to see if there was any data to support that I "clearly" bowl better in Game 1, Game 2, or Game 3...or vice versa.

The findings weren't as clear as I had hoped:

Game 1 I averaged 180 versus Game 2 177. The statistical means were also similar: 178 versus 173 respectively. Game 1 and Game 2 also saw 3 games (each) that were < 150.

Game 1 had a lower standard deviation and variance meaning my Game 1 scores were much more consistent than Game 2/Game 3.

While I threw 7 games > 200 in Game 1, 5 (of those 7) were in the 203-212 range.

Game 2 had a similar average and mean to Game 1, but a similar standard deviation and variance as Game 3.

Game 3 was clearly better with an average of 195, mean of 194, and 12 games > 200 with only 1 game under 150.

As for trends, Games 2 and 3 I am trending in an upward trajectory, where as my Game 1 scores seem to be getting worse (downward trend).

AVERAGES
Game 1: 180
Game 2: 177
Game 3: 195

The million dollar question is..."what gives?" Why would a bowler do better in Game 3?

There's lots of potential answers.

1) Game 1 and Game 2 are "practice"...and by Game 3 I've found my line and my timing/form is best.
2) Speed. You see this with thumbless bowlers...they start out great, but by game 3 they are out of gas. There's so much more "moving parts" with the cranker/thumbless delivery, that it's easy to get "worn out". Maybe my struggles are the opposite? I start out firing the ball at 15-17mph...without the rev rate to get the ball back to the pocket...but by Game 3 I've settled into a more manageable 11-14mph range. Maybe.

Currently, I'm dealing with issue #2 by changing my starting position on the approach...which is a trick my coach taught me. The closer you are to the foul line, the lower your speed. Vice versa if you start further back.

One way I could deal with item #1...is to come to league night early and throw a couple games...just to warm-up. On a 5-man team, you're lucky if you get 4 warm-up shots in 7-10 minutes. Maybe I need more warm-up? Makes sense. Granted, it'd be difficult to do on Wednesdays...where I'm already rushing to get home, get changed, and get to the alley. But, maybe I can try that on Sundays.

Timmyb

11-18-2023, 02:34 AM

I've always contended that I bowl better in game 3 because that's usually when I switch from seltzer to beer....

Aslan

11-20-2023, 02:20 PM

I've always contended that I bowl better in game 3 because that's usually when I switch from seltzer to beer....

That's entirely possible. My old Anaheim Hills team used to swear that I bowled better when I was drunk/drinking. I tend to bowl better relaxed, so it's possible that alcohol could lead to a more relaxed form.

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 14

583 Series: 163-219 (clean)-201

Started with the Trident Odyssey (TO) in Game 1. I had to move in a little. The new 500/Step 1/Step 2 surface didn't seem to allow me to use that ball in the 6-7 board area. Not a 'terrible' game, but the open on a 10-pin in the 9th really hurt me.
X, S8 -, 7 -, X, 6 /, X, X, 6 /, 9 -, S8 /6.

Switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS) for Game 2...which meant a semi-significant move to the right. Almost had my first ever Dutch 200! Missed it by striking in the 8th.
X, 7 / X, 9 /, X, 8 /, X, X, X, 9 /X.

Continued with the SS...but the lanes were transitioning a bit by now. Was REALLY hoping for a second clean game in the same night...which, if I HAVE done that...it's been so rare and so long ago I don't remember it.
X, 7 /, X, X, 7 /, 8 /, 9 -, X, X, 9 /9.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.85 pins
Strikes: 48%
Spares: 73% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 4-pin.

Makeable spares: 76% (10/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 washout (2x)

Splits: 50% (1/2)

Average over 3 games: 194.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 201.67.

Positives
- Team took all 4 points.
- Added a pin to my average.
- Clean game.

Negatives
- Too many "pushes" right that lef to multi-pin leaves.
- Clean game was only a 219...pretty low for a clean game.
- Spare Shooting not 'horrid', but still needs improvement.
- Don't think I can last a full Fall/Winter season with my right knee strained/sprained the way it is.

New approach to my inconsistent ball speed is working. Keeping my ball in the 12-14mph range.

Aslan

11-23-2023, 04:30 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 14

In first place, but facing a high average team.

Their team annoyed me early, before warm-up, when one of their bowlers made some offhand comment about bowlers bringing so many balls to the lanes. Then, he cut in front of me during warm-ups because he was under the illusion that each team had to line up on each side accordion to their lane assignment. In other words, since me and a teammate were actually ready when the lanes got turned on for practice, we were going to start practicing...him on the left lane and me on the right. But, the opposing bowler felt we re supposed to all line up the left lane. Stupid. He just seemed like an aggravating guy that kinda uses it to his advantage in competition..kinda like a older, fatter, far less talented, Pete Weber.

529 Series: 183-168-178

X, 7 -, X, 9 /, 6 -, X , 9 -, X, X, XX9.
Made a couple bad shots...couldn't pick up a spare...not a good recipe for high scoring.

9 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 -, 9 -, X, X, 8 /, S6 3.
Stuck with the Trident Odyssey (TO). Similar to Game 1, just had a bad open on a split in the 10th.

X, X, X, S8 -, X, 9 -, X, 7 /, S8 1, 9 /9.
Switched to the Force Pearl (FP) for Game 3. More of the same. I was well inside of my comfort zone, targeting 12-14 and standing 7-11 boards left of center.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.06 pins
Strikes: 48%
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 57% (4/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 3-pin, 7-pin, and 6-pin (2x).

Makeable spares: 50% (6/12)
Multiple Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 176.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 188.00.

Positives
- Team won all 4 points, against a very good team.

Negatives
- No 200+ games.
- Bowled below my average all 3 games.
- Spare shooting needs urgent improvement.

Was gonna stay afterwards to work on my spare shooting, but there was a huge line of kids that came in as leagues were ending. Plus, I didn't know if it would be good for my knee. Probably a good choice given today I can barely get on and off the couch. Maybe I'll go over early on Sunday and throw a couple low-ball games before Sunday night leagues.

Aslan

11-27-2023, 05:46 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 15

Wasn't sure if I should go or not...right knee was a disaster over the holiday weekend and I think I caught either Covid, the Flu, bronchitis, sinus infection, or a bad cold. But, I'm the Sunday team's best bowler and I didn't want to let them down...and who knows? Sometimes I bowl better when I'm sick or hurting...so, maybe.

536 Series: 157-201-178

Had to move left a lot more and a lot sooner than usual. That's not a good sign for my game. But, it was horrible spare shooting that hurt me.
X, X, 8 /, X, 9 -, 8 /, 9 -, 9 -, X, 7 -.

Switched from the Trident Odyssey to the Force Pearl in the 5th. It just seemed like maybe the center had applied a fresh pattern, but didn't clean the lane/backend first...and there's always a danger of carry down after a holiday weekend....with so many people throwing plastic balls over the holiday weekend. Not sure if the ball change worked or not, because I magically figured out how to pick up a spare in Game 2...which helped the score considerably.
S8 -, 9 /, 9 /, 7 /, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, X, X9 /.

Something just wasn't working with my line. Any little miss or change in how much hand I got in the shot seemed to cause the ball to react excessively.
S7 -, 9 /, X, 6 2, 8 /, 7 /, X, X, 8 /, 9 /X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 37%
Spares: 65% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin (2x), and 7-pin (2x).

Makeable spares: 72% (13/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 178.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 189.33.

Positives
- I survived...had to take the day off today as I can't stop coughing..but I survived Sunday night bowling.
- Spare shooting improved after Game 1.

Negatives
- Spare shooting needs to better than 70%.
- A sub-40% strike rate is terrible.
- The team we played pretty much crushed us and took all 4 points.

Need to touch up the surfaces on the Odyssey and Force Pearl...gonna try and keep the surfaces more stable and figure out how I need to adjust rather than continuing to try and dull down the Odyssey and add surface to the other 3 balls.

Aslan

11-30-2023, 03:02 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 15

In first place, but facing another high average team.

I had the day off and got to the lanes a little early. So, I got to stretch a little more and spent 3-5 minutes using the Eileen's swing trainer.

638 Series: 210-193-235

8 /, X, X, 9 -, 9 /, X, X, X, X, S7 1.
Pretty much up the 9-board on both lanes. The 210 was nice. BUT...you'll notice that had I been able to pick up a corner pin...it would have been 220. And, had I not opened on a 4-7-10 split (that I almost picked up), it could have been more like 230. However, I struck in the 3rd and 9th, which meant I was 1/3 of the way to winning the "Strike-O-Mania".

X, X, X, X, X, 9 -, X, 9 -, 8 1, 9 -.
Moved in to the 9-10 area. Nice to have the front 5. Nice to make 1st and 5th to stay alive in "Strike-O-Mania". NOT so nice to miss every single spare conversion in the game...including in the 9th and 10th. :mad:

X, 8 1, X, X, X, X, X, X, X, 9 -.
Moved in a little; targeting 10-12. Needed to strike in the 2nd and first frame of the 10th to win "Strike-O-Mania". So, that didn't work out so well. BUT...if I got a second strike in the 10th, I would get .75 cents from each teammate (for 9-in a row). If I struck OUT...I'd get $1 from each teammate...I'd tie my career highest game (268)...AND I'd throw my first ever 10-in-a-row.

But, instead, I left a 10-pin...missed it...same old story. :(

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.50 pins
Strikes: 66%
Spares: 20% picked up

Single Pin spares: 16% (1/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 7-pin, and 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 22% (2/9)
Multiple Pin spares: 33% (1/3)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 212.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 231.33.

Positives
- Highest series this season.
- All 3 games above my average.
- New surface (800/Step 1) on the Trident Odyssey worked well.

Negatives
- Team only managed to take 1 of 4 points.
- Obviously, spare shooting was abysmal.
- All those strikes and I didn't win ONE card game!

Made both my single-pin spares during practice...so it was even more upsetting that I couldn't BUY a spare all night. The only single-pin I picked up was an 8-pin. The only other spare was a 6-10...the other 6-10 I chopped. Even though it might risk my knee, I gotta set aside some time to practice spares. This is ridiculous.

Staying in the same 2.5 board area and only using the one ball kept things simple. Not all the strikes were "beauties". A couple were kinda garbage and 2-3 were Brooklyn. I also took advantage of some nice THS miss room to the right. BUT...I also got robbed of some nice pocket hits that instead (of strikes) resulted in 10-pins, a 7-pin, and a stone 8.

J Anderson

11-30-2023, 09:30 AM

Nit picking and some random thoughts/observations:

Had you made that corner pin in game 1 your score would have been 221 since you were working on a strike in the third.

Just a guess, but I think the same conditions that led to your higher than normal scores meant a lot better pin carry for the other team.

It seems like some times , if I get a lot of strikes, it feels like my spare shooting improves as well. It might be on those occasions I’m leaving easier spares to shoot. Other times it’s like after 4 or 5 strikes in a row I forget how to shoot a spare. An then of course there are those days where I couldn’t buy a double, and after a game and a half of shooting two spares for every strike I start missing easy spares.🙄

Aslan

11-30-2023, 04:43 PM

Just a guess, but I think the same conditions that led to your higher than normal scores meant a lot better pin carry for the other team.
Hard to say. The other team bowled great...but 3 of the 5 bowlers on my team bowled like ****. We've managed to hold onto 1st place...mainly because we don't have bad "team games". Usually when 1-3 people are bowling well, there's a couple that aren't...but it's never the whole team having a bad night. The same can be said for why we never have amazingly great nights...I don't think we've ever had a night yet where all 5 of us bowl above our average.

It seems like some times , if I get a lot of strikes, it feels like my spare shooting improves as well. It might be on those occasions I’m leaving easier spares to shoot. Other times it’s like after 4 or 5 strikes in a row I forget how to shoot a spare. And then of course there are those days where I couldn’t buy a double, and after a game and a half of shooting two spares for every strike I start missing easy spares.🙄
Well...I don't know what my deal is. When I got regular coaching, I was picking up single-pins in the 75-80% range...and IMPROVING. AND...if I DID start to have issues....it would get corrected by practice and my next coaching session.

And the BIGGEST (I'd bold that word and attach all kinds of balloons and firework emojis to it if I knew how) reasons I miss spares is two-fold:

1) I tend to square my shoulders at the foul line rather than keep my shoulder pointed toward the pin I'm trying to pick up. So I miss probably 90% inside. And when I try to "correct" that...I over-correct and thats the 10% of the time I dump it in the gutter.

2) And it won't offend me if RobM agrees with this...because nearly every single teammate I've ever had knows its true...I'm a "head case". I have a tendency to over-think everything and am very mathematical in my approach. I keep notes, I write down my positions and targets on each lane, I have a very regimented way to adjust and a very specific ball progression.

Part of this is that doing these things corrected a lot of my early flaws. We've all seen beginners that start in different places every time they get on the approach...then can't figure out why they are so inconsistent. I used to have a "benchmark ball" and then I'd try to change to another ball...but it was very arbitrary and inaccurate. I didn't understand anything about ball technology/specifications...so all my balls were sanded down to like 500 Abralon...thinking that I could make them hook more that way (versus learning how to bowl properly). Taking a more deliberate, specific, regimented approach allowed me to fix a lot of those issues.

'Part' of it is that I'm autistic. Not wearing a helmet or being able to count cards like Rainmain or like a psycho killer accountant...nor can I just pick up any incident and start playing it. Nothing 'cool' like that. It's more just a 'discomfort' when I don't have things the way I need them to be. Like, if I forget my notepad or my bowling towel...or I'm sweating alot and didn't bring a fan or towel to wipe my face. Any little oversight can cause my anxiety to skyrocket. I don't how many bowling towels I've bought at pro shops, the night of bowling, because I forgot mine. Now I have a stack of probably 30 of them...yet, I still will occasionally forget one.

My teammates swear that I bowl better when I'm drinking. To most people, that is just teammates trying to get you drunk or get you to start buying rounds/shots/etc... But, for me, there is 'some' validity to it. Getting even a slight "buzz" tends to get me "out of my own head". Marijuana is more effective and doesn't tend to be as drastic...which is probably part of the reason I did so well back in 2016 when I could smoke a little before league night...since I was walking distance from the alley.

Anyway...long story, long....once I miss a single-pin...or chop a makeable multi-pin spare...I tend to be less likely to pick up the next one. And the more that continues...the worse it gets. "Self-Talk" doesn't seem to work, because it ends up being a "self-argument". If I MAKE that first one...second one...third one...I end up sub-consciously talking myself off the ledge. And then, missing one isn't the end of the world. But if I start chopping buckets, missing 2-pins or 8/9-pins...it's gonna be a LONG night.

Fortunately, last night I struck about 2/3 of the time...so I never got into that downward spiral.

Aslan

11-30-2023, 04:56 PM

My thoughts on last night are:

"What was different last night than the previous nights?" Same ball. Same line. Same speeds. Nothing new in my release. So, was there anything I did differently?

ANSWER:
"Staying in the same 2.5 board area and only using the one ball kept things simple."

Normally, I adjust based on leaves...when I make a "decent" shot. This ends up in a series of moves, generally left, on both lanes (to try and stay ahead of the pattern breaking down), and pretty soon I'm way too far inside and then I'm missing right...and then I think I need to change balls because I'm hitting weak...and then I gotta adjust for the new ball...etc, etc, etc... By the end of the night I've traveled 6 boards left and 6 more back to the right and went through 3 balls.

Yesterday I moved once after practice...a 1-1 move left. Probably just a result of the new 800/Step 1 surface. I moved 1-2 left sometime late Game 1/Early Game 2. Then I made a couple 1-2 moves left over the next Game and a half. If that seems like a lot of moving....you have no idea how much I usually move. :rolleyes: On a normal night, I'd have moved that much just after one game...and I'd have changed balls going into Game 2 and the whole things would have started again.

So, maybe thats the answer. More patience with my line/ball and just focus on the basics:
- Slight lowering from start to finish; Head level.
- Focus eyes on target until ball rolls over it.
- Balance at the foul line; Keep balance foot on the ground.
- Good release and Post your shot

Aslan

12-05-2023, 12:13 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 16

After a decent night Wednesday, I was hoping for another strong outing. That didn't happen. :(

478 Series: 139-168-178

Pocket hit after pocket hit. Left 4 10-pins and a 7-pin. And, per my usual "headcaseness"...once I missed one...it was all over but the cryin. Switched from the Trident Odyssey to the Scorpion Sting (SS) in the 6th...thinking maybe moving outside with a weaker ball might help the carry...but, NOPE.
9 /, 9 -, S8 1, 9 -, S7 1, 9 /, 9 -, X, X, 9 -.

Stuck with the SS through 4. Thought maybe it would work given I had 4 strikes on 5 shots (8th, 9th, 1st, 2nd)...but I also left two 10-pins and a stone 9-pin through the 4th. Got desperate and balled down to the Rhino Gold...but that ball was doing the same thing. I struck a couple times, but then left a 2-10 on what should have been a strike. So, out comes the Force Pearl (FP) in the 9th to see if I could salvage 'something'.
X, X, 9 -, 9 -, S8 1, X, X, S8 1, 7 /, 9 /8.

Started picking up some spares, but couldn't overcome whatever was going wrong that night.
X, S8 -, X, 8 -, 7 /, X, 8 /, 9 /, 9 /, 7 /X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.84 pins
Strikes: 31%
Spares: 42% picked up

Single Pin spares: 45% (5/11)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 2-pin, 4-pin, nor 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 56% (9/16)
Multiple Pin spares: 80% (4/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/5)

Average over 3 games: 159.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 180.00.

Positives
- IF I had picked up my spares, a 180 wouldn't have been a bad score given the struggles I was having with he shot.
- Team took 3 out of 4...carrying me and with our team getting a whopping 227 pins of handicap.

Negatives
- Spare shooting was once again HORRID.

I just gotta practice my corner-pins. Whether it cripples me or not....the rest of the season isn't going to be worth bowling if I'm this much of an embarrassment converting simple spares.

Aslan

12-07-2023, 09:49 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 16

In first place, but facing another high average team. This team is mostly former college 2-handers...I seriously doubt if 4 of them were more than 25. One of them works at the same place I do, so I was REALLY hoping not to embarrass myself.

638 Series: 213-202 (clean)-223

8 /, X, X, 9 -, X, 6 3, X, X, X, X 9 -.
Pretty much the same as last Wednesday. Struck a good deal, but couldn't pick up those 10-pins. But, a nice run salvaged a decent score.

9 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 /, 9 /, 9 /, 6 /, 8 /, XXX.
Haven't had one of these in awhile. Look at all those spares!! Decided to switch to the Force Pearl (FP) in the 9th and move right.

X, 8 1, X, X, X, X, X, X, X, 9 -.
The FP was a beast, as usual. Would have had an even better score had I not left a stone 8 in the 4th and a pocket 10-pin in the 7th.

Ended up with my 2nd 638 series in a row..right on the nose!

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.18 pins
Strikes: 55%
Spares: 73% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (6/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (6x)
Also left a single 4-pin and 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 78% (11/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 212.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 217.00.

Positives
- Two straight good series.
- All 3 games above my average.
- A CLEAN game!
- New surface (2000/Step 3) on the Force Pearl worked well.
- Won a card game!
- Always a good night when ya beat 2-handers!

Negatives
- Not enough strikes.
- Fell down in Game 3...was fortunate I didn't hurt myself.

I think the drinks in Game 2 helped me to loosen up. And once I started picking up spares, I didn't become such a "head case". Can't complain. Just gotta get healthy and consistent. Tonight, my knees didn't hurt as much. That led to better form and balance at the foul line (except when I fell). Not sure what happened with the fall. I think I was a little off-balanced and my slide foot just slid out from under me. Stayed on the approach though...AND picked up the 10-pin I left!

Timmyb

12-08-2023, 07:10 PM

Well done. Beat my arse....

Aslan

12-10-2023, 11:57 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 17

Another decent night, but it's harder to stay motivated in this league with me being the high average bowler on a team of bowlers that average like 48, 120-130, and one in the 160s.

593 Series: 212-204-177

It's a fairly forgiving shot...so I wasn't "on", but I was "on enough" to put together a decent game.
9 /, 7 2, X, X, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, X, X 9 -.

Was hoping to make a run at a high game; maybe even a high series, but I lost my line to transition a couple times. Cost myself over 20 pins with sub-par spare shooting at corner pins. But, it was the highest score in Game 2...beating out a couple 200+ average bowlers on the opposing team.
X, X, X, 9 -, 9 -, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, X 9 /.

The Trident Odyssey (TO) did well for me, but I needed to make a change in the 4th frame, to the Force Pearl (FP). But, the lanes were just transitioning too much for me to run anything together.
9 /, 8 /, S7 1, 9 /, X, X, 7 /, 9 -, 8 /, 9 /X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.21 pins
Strikes: 45%
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 69% (9/13)
Most common single-pin leaves: 7-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 70% (12/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 75% (3/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 197.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 208.67.

Positives
- Bowled above my average.
- Didn't embarrass myself in front of the two higher average (200+) bowlers on the opposing team.
- Most metrics improved (green) over last week.

Negatives
- Lost 3 out of 4 points to a team we were tied with for 4th place.

Left knee felt good. Right knee was hurting. Achilles is sore. But, the timing seems much improved.

Aslan

12-14-2023, 11:33 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 17

STILL in first place! Facing ANOTHER high average team...so I was motivated (again) not to embarrass myself. Also hoping for my 3rd consecutive 638 series in as many weeks (this league)...but couldn't pull that off.

605 Series: 179-226-200

6 3, 9 /, X, 8 /, 7 /, X, 6 /, X, 5 2, XX9.
Based on warm-ups, I thought I needed to adjust right, but then that led to going through the nose...so I moved back inside. Then, I realized I was going through the nose because I was pulling the shot and needed to move back outside. That little back and forth experiment cost me any chance of running strikes together early.

9 /, 9 -, X, X, X, 9 /, X, X, X, 9 /X.
Felt good. Obviously upset that I completely whiffed on a 10-pin to spoil and otherwise clean game...but everything was going well. I think my game 2 was higher than bowlers on either team...or at least top 2.

X, X, X, 7 /, X, X, 7 /, 9 /, 9 -, 9 -.
Stuck with the Trident Odyssey all the way. Had a shot at a really nice game...also had a shot to hit 638 again...but opened on corner pins in the 9th AND 10th. :mad:

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 51%
Spares: 66% picked up

Single Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin (2x), 7-pin, and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 66% (10/15)
Multiple Pin spares: 71% (5/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: N/A

Average over 3 games: 201.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 213.00.

Positives
- Over 600 3 straight weeks.
- Took 3 out of 4 against a talented team.

Negatives
- Gotta fix single-pin spare shooting!

Not a bad night. Didn't need to move a "great" deal, and was able to use the Odyssey all 3 games. It's just disappointing to end the night with a missed 4-pin and 10-pin.

boomer

12-14-2023, 12:38 PM

LOL - which variable is off? Which variable is off? Oh - not that one. . . crap . . . OOOOOOH, I'm doing something stupid. OK - fix that - LOOK, we're good!

Yeah - normal process, right?

Aslan

12-18-2023, 10:33 AM

LOL - which variable is off? Which variable is off? Oh - not that one. . . crap . . . OOOOOOH, I'm doing something stupid. OK - fix that - LOOK, we're good!

Yeah - normal process, right?

For me...yeah, sounds about right. Except usually it lasts all night instead of just the first half of Game 1.

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 18

516 Series: 171-189-156

Lanes seemed to be playing "slick", so I was right of where I normally would start. That led to a rare 1st ball dump into the gutter in the 7th frame. Too many opens and not enough carry.
8 /, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, - 8, 8 /, 7 2, X 6 /.

Pretty simple evaluation. Pocket hits just wouldn't carry...and I suddenly forgot how to pick up a single-pin. Finally switched to the Force Pearl in the 9th.
X, X, 7 /, X, 9 -, 9 -, 9 -, X, X, X 7 2.

More trouble carrying, AND I ran into some split issues. That combination is almost never good for scoring....leading to my 8th lowest game of the season (4th lowest series).
9 /, 9 /, 8 1, S7 1, 9 -, X, S7 2, X, X, 8 /S7.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.52 pins
Strikes: 36%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 7-pin and 9-pin (2x each).

Makeable spares: 55% (10/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common multi-pin leave: 4-7 (3x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 172.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 186.33.

Positives
- Due to the other team bowling even WORSE...we took 4 points and should be in the top 5 when we return in a couple weeks (off for Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve)
- Remarkably/Sadly Enough, I had the highest series of my team and the opposing team.

Negatives
- 3/7 on corner pins.

Left knee felt good. Right knee feels good. Achilles is sore. The timing and balance seemed good early on, but my balance wasn't great near the end.

Not downplaying the 3/5 performance with 10-pins and 0/2 performance on 7-pins...but I WAS getting some bad breaks. A lot of solid, pocket hits that didn't carry. I watched two that were CLEARLY ringing 10s...looked identical. And, another night of playing DOWN to my competition in this league. Averaging just shy of 182 on Sundays...just shy of 189 on Wednesdays.

Aslan

12-29-2023, 09:25 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 18

STILL in first place! Facing ANOTHER high average team...so I was motivated (again) not to embarrass myself. Also hoping for my 4th consecutive 600+ series in as many weeks (this league)...but couldn't pull that off.

550 Series: 178-178-194

X, X, 9 /, S8 1, X, 9 /, 6 3, X, X, 9 -.
Just couldn't run much together. A split and chopped left-side bucket...obviously could have done without a missed 4-pin in the 10th.

X, X, 7 1, 9 /, X, X, S7 -, X, X, 8 -.
Same as Game 1. Sporadic doubles, a split, opened on a washout, and then there was the whiff on the 4-7 in the 10th. :mad:

9 -, X, 9 /, X, X, X, X, 9 -, 9 /, 9 -.
Managed to run some strikes together, but 3 missed single-pins...including another disaster in the 10th made for a 3rd game < 200.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.23 pins
Strikes: 53%
Spares: 35% picked up

Single Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 41% (5/12)
Multiple Pin spares: 0% (0/3)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 183.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 198.67.

Positives
- Took 3 out of 4 against a talented team.
- Decent 1st Ball Average

Negatives
- Gotta fix single-pin spare shooting!

Stuck with the Trident Odyssey all night. Seemed like it was coming through the nose when I was outside, but then hitting week when I moved a little inside.

J Anderson

12-29-2023, 10:03 AM

I always have mixed emotions when my team wins despite my not bowling well.

Wish I were closer and could try to help you with those single pin spares. From about 1500 miles away my guess is that you're thinking too much while trying to shoot them.

Hope you and everyone else on the boards has a happy and healthy new year!

Aslan

01-04-2024, 02:01 PM

I always have mixed emotions when my team wins despite my not bowling well.
That could literally be the title of this post. :mad:

Wish I were closer and could try to help you with those single pin spares. From about 1500 miles away my guess is that you're thinking too much while trying to shoot them.

I don't know. It seems like a grip issue...because I don't have the spare ball VISE drilled, so its a very different feel. But, I hesitate to VISE drill a spare ball and then have to constantly switch slugs...which would inevitably result in breaking the anchor or the slug(s).

Tonight was a little different. For some reason, my thumb shrunk considerably over the holidays. That meant dropping 3-4 sizes in my VISE slugs...and made my spare ball very loose. I added a 2nd piece of tape...but still.

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 19

STILL in first place! Facing ANOTHER high average team...3rd week in a row.

Had high hopes for tonight given I was fresh and the cortisone shot in my knee really, really helped.

484 Series: 151-148-185

6 /, S8 1, 6 1, X, S7 -, S8 -, 9 /, 7 /, 9 /, XX9.
Couldn't get the ball back to the pocket. Same as practice. Ended up having to play 1st arrow..which is my "B-game" for sure. Finally started settling down and making my spares...even ended strong to help the team take a point.

9 -, 8 /, 9 /, 8 1, 7 /, 8 1, X, 9 -, 8 /, 8 /X.
Was still struggling and switched to the Scorpion Sting in the 7th. But, terrible spare shooting. :mad:

9 /, X, X, - /, 9 /, 8 -, 9 /, X, 9 /, X 7 /.
Settled down a bit and was working towards a 250...or at LEAST a clean game. Something to salvage a good night. But, I was just having trouble with my spare ball and missed my 2nd 6-10 conversion. Oh well.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.35 pins
Strikes: 26%
Spares: 62% picked up

Single Pin spares: 77% (5/9)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (3x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 4-pin, nor 6-pin.

Makeable spares: 71% (7/9)
Multiple Pin spares: 66% (8/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-3-6 (2x), 4-7 (2x), 1-2-4-10 (2x), 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 161.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 167.67.

Positives
- Knee (right) felt great.
- Some spare shooting stats are improved (compared to last week).
- Team took 3 out of 4 and remains in 1st place.
- Teammate shot a 267...which is the highest game he's thrown ever (entire bowling career...and hes older than me) bowled.

Negatives
- Gotta be able to find the pocket sooner!
- Achilles is a bit sore today.

Now that my knee is better, I'm gonna try to work in a practice...maybe over the weekend. And it'll just be low-ball, low-ball, low-ball....until I'm confident I can make 80% (or better) of my corner pins. 'Maybe' I need to change my targeting? I hesitate to do that because the targets/standing position were given to me by my former coach...and they WORKED for multiple years. The lanes haven't gotten longer or wider since then...so I'm the variable; not the targets. BUT...if I just throw my spare ball towards the half of the lane where the corner-pin is (rather than targeting a board at the arrows...I gotta think I could convert at least 75%. Or, maybe I need a sport psychologist. It 'seems' like much of my problem converting single-pins is being almost certain I'm going to miss when I'm getting ready on the approach.

Aslan

01-08-2024, 01:12 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 19

536 Series: 170-174-192

This is ridiculous! I hit the pocket 5 times (to start the game) and only struck once!! I mean, come on!! I bet you I rolled a quality ball at least 8 out of 10 (maybe 10 out of 10) times...struck ONCE! Switched from the Trident Odyssey to the Scorpion Sting in the 7th...but same thing, different ball. Even bit the bullet and switched to the Rhino Gold in the 10th. And, of course, Opened on a 7-pin in the 10th. :mad:
8 /, 8 /, 9 /, 9 -, X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 -.

More of the same. :( The Rhino Gold, with it's 3000 surface...just wasn't working. I had to move to 1st arrow and try to loft/push the ball up the lane....but inside 7...too much oil for it to make any move whatsoever. Finally switched to the Force Pearl in the 8th....needing something that could go long (in the beat up 7-10 board area) but still have power in the pocket. And, couldn't convert the baby split in the 10th...so another open 10th!
9 -, 9 /, 9 /, X, 7 /, X, 9 /, 8 /, X, S8 1.

Figured I should have a decent 10th given I was using my best ball. Dumped it in the gutter on the first shot...yikes. Actually pushed a shot and pulled 2-3 shots...so my bad bowling skillz countered the better ball choice. FINALLY a strong 10th so I could salvage ONE game above my average.
- /, X, 9 -, X, X, 8 /, S7 2, X, 7 /, XXX.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.72 pins
Strikes: 34%
Spares: 71% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (8/12)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 5-pin, 7-pin (3x), and 8-pin (2x).

Makeable spares: 78% (15/19)
Multiple Pin spares: 100% (7/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 178.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 194.00.

Positives
- Took 3 out of 4 points thanks to the other team failing to bowl well. That should put us in the top 3 at this point in the season.
- Spare-shooting was improved.

Negatives
- Hitting light all night. Not sure if its my line or the ball burning up.
- Spare shooting was improved, but still needs MORE improvement.
- Sore Achilles.

With my right knee better (cortisone shot a week ago), I'm able to be more balanced at the foul line, I'm more accurate, can post my shots, etc... But, my line is up 7-8...which I don't mind. However, when I have to move right...I run out of room pretty fast. And, if I'm targeting 5-6...not much miss room before your ball is in the gutter.

I 'feel' good...I just need to start seeing that transfer on the lanes.

Aslan

01-08-2024, 01:37 PM

May have complicated things by re-surfacing the Odyssey and Sting.

My "intent' was to put more surface on the entire arsenal...so I could move a little closer to 2nd arrow (at the start of the night) rather than have to work my way in from 7-8. So, I took the Odyssey (TO) from a Step 1 surface to a 1000 surface. I took the Scorpion Sting (SS) from Step 2 down to 1500.

I was planning on keeping the Rhino Gold at 3000 and dropping the Force Pearl down to 3000 (from Step 3). However, I think I'm going to leave the Force Pearl at a Step 3 finish given how much power that ball has...I don't want it over-reacting to friction.

Unfortunately, my attempts to drop the surface down on the TO and SS seems to be counter-productive. I only end up gaining maybe a half-board to a board of starting position (so essentially negligible). Any further movement left and the ball won't come back. But, at 7-9...with surface on those balls...they seem to burn out and hit the pocket and deflect...leaving 10-pins, etc...

And, the biggest flaw with this arsenal is how much MORE ball the TO is...versus the SS ball down option. The RGs are similar, but the core on the Odyssey is noticeably stronger. So, I usually have to move at least 1:1 right...usually more...when I ball down.

I might need to just accept the fact that my style works best with a polished pearl cover on a strong, 2.50 RG core. The last time I threw a solid cover well was my old Lethal Revolver...and I believe I put a 1500 (polished) surface on it.

So, maybe...

Ball #1: Trident Odyssey (1500/Step 1/Step 2)
Ball #2: Scorpion Sting (1500/Step 2/Step 3)
Ball #3: Vintage Rhino Gold (500/R. Compound/Polish)
Ball #4: Force Pearl (500/Step 2/Polish)

Early on, when I first started bowling, I thought sanding a ball would make it hook more. I quickly learned that sanding a ball too much makes it hook less (because it loses most of it's energy before it ever gets to the breakpoint). So, maybe the solution to my problem is to take off the surface...still play the 5-9 area, but with more angle on the backend??

Aslan

01-11-2024, 11:58 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 20

STILL in first place!

Came in with low expectations...not confident in my surface adjustments...and I made some slight adjustments to my speed...which always causes me problems with timing.

666 Series: 184-267 (clean)-215 (clean)

9 -, 9 -, 9 /, X, 9 /, 8 /, 9 -, 9 /, X, XXX.
Pretty much a continuation of Sunday night...hitting the pocket and leaving corner-pins. :mad: Made a switch to the Scorpion Sting (SS) in the 7th frame.

X, X, X, X, 8 /, X, X, X, X, X 9 /.
Ughh!! SO close. The SS was working great...pulled a shot in the 5th...just a little...and left a 4-7. Oh well.

9 /, X, 8 /, X, X, 9 /, 6 /, X, 9 /, XXX.
Wasn't making as good of shots in this game. Moved back on the approach to get a little more speed...but it was further back than I've stood in the past 8-9 years...so it messed with my timing a little. Switched to the Force Pearl (FP) in the 4th frame. Mainly I was just really trying to get a second clean game.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.43 pins
Strikes: 60%
Spares: 78% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (8x)
Also left a single 4-pin and 7-pin.

Makeable spares: 78% (11/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 100% (4/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: n/a

Average over 3 games: 222.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 232.33.

Positives
- Team took 3 out of 4.
- Still in 1st Place.
- I won a card game!
- We beat a team that has one of the more annoying bowlers on it.
- I had TWO clean games!!
- Knee and Achilles are generally good.

Negatives
- Gotta figure out this surface issue so I can stop leaving so many pocket 10s.
- Better with spare shooting, but not perfect...still needs some work.
- '666' = bad omen

I LOVE having a healthy knee on my slide leg. LOVE it. I can get in the right position, post my shot, stay balanced, keep my slide foot on the approach...all things that were a challenge when my knee was hurting. The Scorpion Sting did well in the 8-9 board area...despite the 1500 matte surface. All in all, just a good night for Aslan.

boomer

01-11-2024, 02:39 PM

it's always rewarding to beat those annoying persons. . .

Nice job! :)

Aslan

01-15-2024, 10:08 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 20
Team has managed to move into the top 3...despite one bowler that averages about 47. Coming off a solid 666 series Wednesday, so I was confident.

629 Series: 208 (clean)-222-199

Another 'almost' Dutch 200. Can't complain about a clean game...but needed to run some strikes together.
X, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, X, 8 /, 9 /X.

Kept with the Trident Odyssey (TO), which was rolling well. Really hurt my score when I sent the 2nd shot wide right and it came back hard into the nose...left a 4-6-7 split.
X, S7 2, X, X, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, 7 /, XX9.

Stayed with the TO to start. Switched to the Force Pearl in the 5th frame, but ruined my clean game when I got too much hand into the shot and it hooked left of the 3-pin. Just wasn't making good shots toward the end.
X, X, X, 9 /, 8 -, 8 /, 8 /, 8 /, X, 9 / 8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.21 pins
Strikes: 50%
Spares: 86% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (8/12)
Most common single-pin leaves: 2-pin, 4-pin, and 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 3-pin and 7-pin.

Makeable spares: 92% (13/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4 and 3-6 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 209.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 209.67.

Positives
- 100% on single-pin spares!
- Clean game!

Negatives
- Sore Achilles.
- Team lost 3 of 4.

We're not used to "giving" teams pins...but we had to give up around 15 tonight...AND were missing our 4th bowler...so, even my strong night didn't help us as we lost 3 of 4. Oh well. At least I've seen two nights in a row of me back to my 195ish bowling versus my 185ish bowling I've seen previously.

Aslan

01-18-2024, 12:02 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 21

Came in with high expectations after 2 straight nights with a 600+ series. Nope.

522 Series: 195-182-145

8 /, 9 -, X, 8 /, X, 7 2, 9 /, X, X, X 9 /.
Took me awhile to adjust to the new surface (3000) I put on the Trident Odyssey (TO). I mean, it was only two opens and I bowled above my average...but I felt like a combination of "I'm not making good shots" and "I can't really find my shot".

9 -, X, 7 /, X, 9 /, 9 /, 6 /, 9 -, 6 /, XXX.
Switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS) in the 3rd frame. Switched to the Force Pearl in the 10th and thought I found my answer. Felt good to strike out and help the team take the point, but not a "good" game.

9 - , 9 /, X, X, S8 -, S8 -, X, 9 -, S8 -, X S7 1.
Just awful. One shot I'd get no hand into the shot...the next shot I'd get too much hand into the shot. It's my own fault for trying to work on my release during the game, rather than set aside some time to practice. I was watching teammates and opponents virtually miss the pocket and they'd strike. I'd miss a little right or a little left, and I'd get a split. I'd slam the pocket...leave a corner-pin. FOUR splits. Come on.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 41%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin (4x)
Also left a single 6-pin, 7-pin (3x) and 10-pin (2x).

Makeable spares: 62% (10/16)
Multiple Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 174.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 191.00.

Positives
- Team is in 1st place and took all 4 points.
-Knee and Achilles are generally good.
- The alley got new equipment (scoring machines and screens).

Negatives
- Everything else.

Back to reality. I suck at bowling. It's just so frustrating when you make 3-9 shots a night that are perfect...but you also throw 5-15 shots that are terrible. Miss right, pull left, drop the ball, suitcase release, bad spare shooting. Just when you think you've figured it out, you have a terrible night and can't hit 550. Then, you set your expectations low...and you throw a 250+ game and are just firing on all cylinders.

I HATE bowling badly. It ruins my week. :mad: :mad:

J Anderson

01-18-2024, 09:48 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 21

- The alley got new equipment (scoring machines and screens).

I HATE bowling badly. It ruins my week. :mad: :mad:

Just before COVID our center put in much needed new consoles. The old ones were prone to refusing to register some keys and the solution was either have someone change it from the counter or giving the top of the console a sharp thwack with the heel of your hand. The new ones are touch screen tablets. Some of the features that could be there, like ordering food or drinks, aren’t because the center didn’t buy the full software package. They have upgraded the software at least once. It might have been fixing a bug in the original. After the upgrade things seemed to work differently. Before if you had skipped a bowler and they didn’t show up, you could go directly to putting in the blind score. Now you have to unskip and then put in the blind
I’m ready to go back to overhead projectors and reset buttons on the side of the ball return:mad:

And yet you keep coming back🤔

Aslan

01-18-2024, 04:29 PM

Yeah. They didn't have the "oldest" equipment I've ever seen...its a newer center to start with. They had the typical, oval shaped old Brunswick scoring consoles. Not as old/out-dated as the old AS-90s that I used to have to wrestle with when I bowled in California. Those they legitimately had to buy old units from closing bowling centers just so they'd have spare parts.

The new ones are okay. Apparently you can play "Angry Birds" and you can track your bowling on your phone...all kinds of new-fangled stuff. I was impressed back when the scoring units would play little cartoons or show a bowling clip from the PBA after you struck or spared or missed. But, I guess this is progress. If it gets more kids interested in bowling...why not?

I don't really care what scoring system they have as long as it works...and thats usually based more on the camera and pin setters than the scoring system.

I DID like how it showed the ball speeds for each bowler and gave ya some stats. I use Pinpal...so I don't pay too much attention...but the speeds seem more accurate now. The old system I was in the 12.2-13.9 range. Last night I was in the 13.7-14.7 range.

We'll see. I'd settle for bowling 600s using the old AS-90s or projectors vs having fancy scoring systems and bowling sub 550. :mad:

Aslan

01-25-2024, 12:39 AM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 21

545 Series: 169-184-192

Started off with single-pin misses...but recovered best I could.
9 -, 9 -, 9 /, 7 /, X, X, - 9, 9 /, X, X S7 2.

Kept with the Trident Odyssey (TO), but changed to the Force Pearl in the 9th. Just wasn't making good shots.
9 -, X, X, X, 9 /, 7 2, 8 /, 6 2, 9 /, XX6.

Still struggled to carry, but my spare shooting improved to salvage at least one half-way decent score.
9 -, 9 /, X, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, 9 -, X, 9 / 7.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.68 pins
Strikes: 38%
Spares: 52% picked up

Single Pin spares: 61% (8/13)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 4-pin (2x), 5-pin, 6-pin (2x), 7-pin (2x), and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 55% (10/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 40% (2/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 181.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 199.33.

Positives
- Team managed to pick up a few points.

Negatives
- Spare shooting; obviously.

Very poor carry all night long. :(
Exhausting. :(

Aslan

01-25-2024, 01:11 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 22 - position round

564 Series: 195-193-176

X, X, X, X, 7 /, 9 /, 7 -, X, 9 -, 9 /7.
Got enough practice in to realize I might have a better shot with the Scorpion Sting. Figured it'd be just my luck that I roll my first sanctioned perfect game, on a night when we were bowling solo because the opposing team decided to post bowl. No honors if the other team isn't there. But, I pushed the shot in the 5th and then it was a series of bad shots to finish.

X, 7 2, X, 7 2, X, 9 -, X, X, X, X 9 /.
Became apparent that the left lane was giving me problems. 7 /, 7 -, and a 9 - at the end of Game 1. Now 7 2, 7 2, 9 - to start Game 2.

8 /, 7 / , X, X, 9 -, X, 6 /, X, 6 -, X 9 /.
Intermittent strikes, but two opens with one being in the 9th...not so good.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.94 pins
Strikes: 51%
Spares: 53% picked up

Single Pin spares: 57% (4/7)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, and 6-pin.

Makeable spares: 53% (8/15)
Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-4 (3x)

Splits: N/A

Average over 3 games: 188.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 199.67.

Positives
- Team is in 1st place and we probably took 3 out of 4 points.
-Knee and Achilles are generally good.
- Made a lot of good shots.

Negatives
- Barely missed 3 single-pins.

Not a great score...but better than last week and most of the shots felt good.

Aslan

01-29-2024, 01:05 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 22 - position round

507 Series: 182-163-162

Another missed single-pin to set the tone for the night.:mad: Stuck with the Trident Odyssey (TO), but was having to move inside much quicker than usual.
9 -, S8 1, X, X, X, 9 /, 8 1, X, 7 /, X 8 -.

Kept with the TO, but changed to the Force Pearl (FP) in the 8th. I was way inside my comfort zone at this point. Open in the 10th killed me.
X, X, S7 2, 7 2, X, 9 /, 7 2, X, X, 7 1.

Stuck with the FP in Game 3...but had to keep moving RIGHT...because my line, hand, and speed were not aligned and I either sent the call a little wide and didn't hit the 1-pin OR I'd pull the shot a little and go through the nose.
8 /, 7 -, 6 3, 9 /, X, 6 1, 7 /, 7 /, X, X 8 /.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.56 pins
Strikes: 40%
Spares: 42% picked up

Single Pin spares: 75% (3/4)
Most common single-pin leaves: n/a
Left a single 6-pin, 7-pin, 9-pin, and 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 47% (8/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 38% (5/13)
Most common multi-pin leave: 1-2-10, 6-10, 3-6-10, 1-2-8-10, and 1-2-4. (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 169.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 172.00.

Positives
- Knees felt okay.

Negatives
- Spare shooting was very bad.
- Strike rate was bad.
- Never shot my average.
- Team lost all 4 points.

A lot more ball movement. Had to move in about 7 with my eyes and about 15 with my feet. Just felt "off" all night.

Team likely fell from 3rd to 6th or 7th. :(

Aslan

02-01-2024, 10:44 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 23

558 Series: 177-235-146

X, 9 /, 9 /, X, X, 7 1, 9 /, 8 /, 9 /, 9 -.
Had a great line in practice, but I just couldn't carry. Then, stone 8 in the 10th...I push the shot right and 'barely' missed it. :mad:

X, X, 9 -, 8 /, 9 /, X, X, X, X, X 9 /.
Balled down to the Scorpion Sting (SS) and had a very good shot. All 3 single-pins were 10-pins and I made 2 out of 3.

9 /, S7 - , 7 1, 7 2, X, 8 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 /, 9 -.
Wanted to stick with the SS, but I was clearly hitting light and I couldn't realistically loft the ball any further than I was. So, I thought maybe it was time to move to the Force Pearl (FP), but that didn't work. Switched to the Rhino Gold, but that wasn't working either. Finally just went back to the Force Pearl and adjusted my line...but I wasn't making great shots and wasn't getting carry when I did make a good shot. Then, another open in the 10th. :mad:

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 35%
Spares: 65% picked up

Single Pin spares: 76% (10/13)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (6x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, 7-pin (2x), 8-pin, and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 68% (13/19)
Multiple Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 186.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 197.33.

Positives
- Team is in 1st place and we probably took 3 out of 4 points.
- Knees felt fine.
- Had a nice 235 game.

Negatives
- Really "lost my way" after game 2, and it took me far too long to get a decent shot.
- Cost our team Game 3.

Gotta figure out this carry issue. Far too many pocket, flush hits that resulted in single-pin leaves. The stats are crystal clear...ya can't score well with a 35% strike rate. And, you have to be nearly perfect on spare conversions at that strike rate.

Aslan

02-08-2024, 02:33 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 24

Still in first place and dominating the league.

656 Series: 234-216-206

X, X, X, X, 8 1, X, 9 /, 9 /, X, XX9.
Was striking like crazy in practice and the line stayed true until the 7th frame when the Trident Odyssey starting hitting light. I took a chance and balled down to the Scorpion Sting (SS) in the 9th and things were back to clicking.

X, X, 7 1, X, 9 /, X, X, 7 /, X, XXS6.
I shouldn't have been surprised in the Scorpion Sting (SS). I used it last week and shot a 235. Only made a few bad shots and converted all but one spare; but I couldn't run as many strikes together in Game 2.

9 /, X, 9 /, 9 -, 8 1, S7 2, X, X, X, XXX.
Completely lost my line early in the game. But, I managed to find a more inside line that was working for a solid finish that allowed me to salvage a 200+ game and 650+ series.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.33 pins
Strikes: 63%
Spares: 54% picked up

Single Pin spares: 83% (5/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 4-pin and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 60% (6/10)
Multiple Pin spares: 25% (1/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 218.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 222.00.

Positives
- 60% or higher strike rate = GOOD night.
- Converted all 4 10-pins.
- Highest series of my team and the opposing team, despite half the bowlers having a higher average coming in.
- Team took all 4 points!
- Won the final card game!

Negatives
- Half my multi-pin leaves were 6-10s and I chopped them both. :mad:
- NO clean games!
- Still struggling to be consistent enough to put up an honor score or even a 700 series. :(

Felt really good. Was making decent to good shots. Made good adjustments and a good ball change. We were missing our #2 bowler (sick). So, there were a LOT of frames where everyone struck and one person opened...which is a beer frame for our team. Man oh man...I think I drank 4 gin and tonics and was working on a 5th. I usually only drink 1-2. Fortunately, they were on the 'weak' side...but I was starting to worry that by game 3 I'd be too tipsy to make a good shot.

Timmyb

02-08-2024, 04:31 PM

Very nice!

Aslan

02-12-2024, 11:06 AM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 24

Bowling against a team that pre-bowled. Being in Kansas during the super bowl...bowling while the game is on...only half the teams actually showed up.

562 Series: 179-214-169

Just ughh/blah/meh...whatever terms the kids are using these days. Very similar to my first game 2 weeks ago.
9 -, 6 2, X, X, X, 9 -, X, 9 /, 9 /, 8 / 8.

Switched to the Scorpion Sting in the 10th frame of Game 1 and stuck with it the rest of the night. An unconverted 6-7 split away from a clean game.
X, 7 /, X, S8 1, X, X, X, 8 /, X, X 8 /.

Split issues continued until the 10th, where I had a chance to still make my average but barely missed a 10-pin to open.
X, S8 1, X, 8 /, S8 -, X, X, 8 /, 9 /, 9 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.03 pins
Strikes: 46%
Spares: 56% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common single-pin leaves: 3-pin and 10-pin (2x each)
Also left a single 2-pin and 4-pin.

Makeable spares: 69% (9/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 85% (6/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 187.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 197.67.

Positives
- Stats were better, for the most part, than when I last bowled this league two weeks ago.
- Team took 3 out of 4 and should still be somewhere in the top 5.
- Rare night where I shot multi-pin spares well.

Negatives
- Single-pin spare shooting was abysmal. Missed a 4-pin, 10-pin, and 3-pin.
- Made more "bad shots" than usual.

Seemed to have a very solid shot standing just left of center and targeting 9 at the arrows. But, I wasn't carrying if I pushed or pulled my shot. Ya like to have some "wiggle room"...especially on a THS, but it just wasn't there. I was also firing a little "hot". When my ball speed gets in the 15-16mph range...it usually means 2-pin combos. I hate to get any close to the foul line than IO already am in Game 1, but trying to keep the speed and move right seems to hit weak and leave 10-pins. Damned if I do, damned if I don't.

Aslan

02-16-2024, 02:33 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 25

Still in first place and dominating the league.

555 Series: 158-209-188

7 /, 9 /, 8 /, S8 1, X, X, S6 -, 8 /, 7 2, 9 /X.
Had trouble with the ball reacting more than usual. Had to make a 1:2 move left to start, but continued to have to move left and pay a rather high penalty to gain the information.

S8 -, X, X, 9 /, X, X, 7 /, 8 /, 7 /, XXX.
I pulled out the Scorpion Sting in the 10th frame of Game 1 and stuck with it in Game 2. Not a 'bad' game, only one frame/split away from a clean game, but frustrating that I couldn't run more than 2 strikes in a row until the 10th.

8 /, X, 8 /, X, 8 -, X, X, X, S6 3, X 8 -.
Similar game to Game 2. Not 'terrible', but not great. Split in the 9th, on a 2-4-8-10 leave...just killed me.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.79 pins
Strikes: 47%
Spares: 61% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (3/3)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left a single 5-pin, 8-pin, and 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 78% (11/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 72% (8/11)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6-10 and 3-6 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 185.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: n/a.

Positives
- Picked up all my single-pins, even though it was only 3 pins.
- Much better night picking up multi-pin/makeable spares.
- Won 2 out of 3 card games!

Negatives
- Only one game over my average.
- Too many splits.
- Not enough strikes.
- Couldn't run strikes together when I did get them.
- Team lost (for maybe only the 2nd time this season) all 4 points. :(

Tough night. When you're not winning, it doesn't hurt as bad. But, when you're not used to losing...it's a very hollow feeling. The other team was SO much better than us (in terms of talent). I think 3 out of 4 had 200+ averages and the other two were at 197 each. Our anchor barely averages 200 and I have the 2nd highest average at 189...so there's just nothing we can do when they start crushing the pocket.

I felt okay. Achilles has been sore lately. Knees were fine. There was a mix of good shots that didn't carry and bad shots that carried more than they should have...just stinks getting your posterior handed to you. Welcome to the big leagues I guess.

J Anderson

02-16-2024, 05:26 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

- Team lost (for maybe only the 2nd time this season) all 4 points. :(

Tough night. When you're not winning, it doesn't hurt as bad. But, when you're not used to losing...it's a very hollow feeling. The other team was SO much better than us (in terms of talent). I think 3 out of 4 had 200+ averages and the other two were at 197 each. Our anchor barely averages 200 and I have the 2nd highest average at 189...so there's just nothing we can do when they start crushing the pocket.

I felt okay. Achilles has been sore lately. Knees were fine. There was a mix of good shots that didn't carry and bad shots that carried more than they should have...just stinks getting your posterior handed to you. Welcome to the big leagues I guess.

With roughly two thirds of the season passed I have had a strange season. My Thursday league lost three teams from last year. It’s a trios league and both of my teammates from last year quit and I picked up two new ones. We cruised to a big lead in the first half and cinched it with a week to go. In January one of my teammates asked me to join his Wednesday senior league. It fits well in my schedule since I try to be at the alley to coach from 4-5:30 and the league starts at 1:00 pm. My new team was in first when I joined and we’re still in first by a good margin. On Thursday my team was tied for last place at the start of bowling. It feels like I’m throwing the ball well but my average is down about ten pins.

Hope you can take the positives forward into next week, especially the good spare shooting, and the strikes and the wins will follow.

Aslan

02-19-2024, 11:06 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 25

Bowled against a terrible team; so we actually had to make up pins for a change.

552 Series: 189-223-140

The usual. A couple strikes hear and there...two missed single pins. Blah. But, it was over my average (in this league).
X, 9 -, X, X, 8 /, X, X, 9 /, S7 1, X 9 -.

Decided to switch to the Scorpion Sting (SS). Still wasn't right. The other team was bad and they were throwing polyester balls all over the place. I had the inside to myself. But, finally switched to the Force Pearl (FP) in the 8th. Struck out for a decent second game.
S7 2, 9 /, X, X, X, 9 /, 6 3, X, X, XXX.

Seemed to have a decent line the first half of the game...then it was pocket hits leaving 10-pins....8th, 9th, and 10th frames.
9 /, X, X, S6 -, X, 8 -, - 9, 9 /, 9 -, 9 -.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 51%
Spares: 37% picked up

Single Pin spares: 55% (5/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 8-pin, nor 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 46% (6/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 25% (1/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 184.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 195.67.

Positives
- Struck a little more than last week.
- Two games above my average and above my league average (slightly) on the night.
- Team took 4 all 4 points and will be either in or tied for 2nd place next week.
- Despite not having a brace on either knee (laundry), and forgetting to stretch, I finished with only a little soreness in the Achilles.

Negatives
- Spare shooting was terrible.
- Not entirely sure I like my recent surface changes to the Odyssey and Scorpion Sting.
- Speed was a little off (low) which probably contributed to my need to move left so much.

Not sure I like the Step 1 finish on the Trident Odyssey. Gonna try 1500 and see what happens.

Aslan

02-22-2024, 10:52 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 26

Still in first place and dominating the league...but coming off a 0-4 outing last week to a team of high average rollers.

571 Series: 190-180-201

S7 -, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, 9 -, X, X, 8 /, 9 / 9.
Was struggling early. Lanes were playing really dry. Just when I thought I had my line, I realized it was time to ball down. But, similar result...so it was time for "Aslan's NUCLEAR OPTION", i.e. may Ball # 3 Vintage Gold Rhino (won right here on Boards.com!!). But, now I needed to adjust right (and adjust my angle) because the Rhino Gold, even with a 3000 surface, doesn't have the same mojo as the Odyssey and Sting.

X, X, 7 /, X, 9 -, 9 /, X, 9 -, X, 9 / 7.
Stuck it out with the Rhino Gold until the 10th. Two missed single pins. :mad:

9 -, 9 /, S7 2, 9 -, X, X, X, 8 /, X, XX9.
Found my line and started making decent shots; of course it was too little too late at that point.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.15 pins
Strikes: 44%
Spares: 56% picked up

Single Pin spares: 54% (6/11)
Most common single-pin leave: 6-pin and 10-pin (3x each)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, 5-pin, nor 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 64% (9/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 100% (3/3)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-5 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 190.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 209.00.

Positives
- Is there a positive? I guess, gun to my head, I'd say the splits and multi-pin spares were down.
- I suppose...2 of 3 games I made my average?

Negatives
- Team lost all 4 points for the 2nd straight week and maybe only the 3rd time this season.
- Sometimes...the pinpal stats tell an accurate story...I'd have averaged 209 if I could have just picked up more single-pin spares. Horrible.

To add insult to injury, I think each of their bowlers bowled above their average almost every if not every game. Ouch.

Gonna put a Step 3 finish on the Rhino Gold. On the rare times I need it...I need it not to burn up on me on the outside.

Aslan

02-26-2024, 05:13 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 26

Bowled against a below average team and we still got 130 pins! And, we're in sole possession of 2nd place!

720 Series: 237-254-229

Was kinda worried in practice when I was hitting quite a bit "light". Thought about starting with the Scorpion Sting (SS), but figured I'd give the Trident Odyssey (TO)...at least to start.
X, 8 /, X, X, X, X, X, X, 9 -, 8 / X.

Was still 'tempted' to switch to the SS...but I was just doing so well with the TO that it didn't make sense to make a move to a different ball. I figured the wheels would fall off this turnip cart eventually. 9 /, X, X, S8 -, X, X, X, X, X, XXX.

An 800 was out of the picture, so I really just was hoping for my first 700 series. But, I'd have settled for a 269 (new high game) and 690 series (new high series). It was a good night, I just really didn't want to end with a < 199 game and fail to reach any milestone whatsoever. Once I struck with the first ball of the 10th, I knew I had done it. FINALLY!! :cool:
X, X, X, 7 1, X, X, X, 8 1, X, XXX.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.63 pins
Strikes: 80%
Spares: 42% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (1/2)
Most common single-pin leaves: n/a
Left a single 2-pin and 7-pin.

Makeable spares: 50% (3/6)
Multiple Pin spares: 50% (2/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 240.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 243.33.

Positives
- Where to start!?
- When you strike 4 out of every 5 shots...I probably never experienced that strike rate in the past.
- Despite our opponents putting up a heck of a fight, my scores crushed them. Took all 4 and are either solidly in 2nd or maybe tied for 1st...which would mean I'm on the 1st place team in BOTH leagues I'm in.
- I outbowled nearly every other bowler in the league, if not EVERY bowler in our league...including a couple high average bowlers on the pair next to me.
- My body was healthy. If I can trust my left knee...I can get lower...I can get more leverage on the ball...results will follow.

Negatives
- No honor scores. :(
- No clean games!
- The strike rate definitely masked some poor spare shooting.

Wow. I know. I just had one of those nights where, after some movement left in the 1st game...I never moved again. When I can use one ball all night and move very little laterally, I usually have a good night. Never THIS good...but now I know its possible. Didn't earn a ring or get my name announced over the PA...but who cares!?

J Anderson

02-26-2024, 09:49 PM

Good bowling!👍👍👍👍👍
It’s weird that sometimes when you’re throwing a lot of strikes your spare shooting improves. There are other times when it seems as if you, (and I really mean I), forget how to make spares after throwing five or six strikes in a row.

Timmyb

02-27-2024, 04:14 PM

Dude, nice night!

Aslan

02-28-2024, 11:53 PM

Good bowling!👍👍👍👍👍

Dude, nice night!

Thanks! The hard part is showing up to the next league night knowing that you're "capable" of a 720 series....but you likely won't get one again for some time.

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 27

Still in first place and dominating the league...but coming off two straight 0-4 blankings. :(

549 Series: 195-194-160

8 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 /, 9 /, 9 -, 9 /, X, X 9 -.
Just struggled to make perfect shots...and it seemed like even slight misses wouldn't carry. Switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS) in the 7th, leading to my only open on a 3-pin on a bad shot that crossed over.

9 -, X, X, 9 /, 8 /, X, 7 /, X, S8 1, XXX.
Opened on another 3-pin to lead off the second game. :mad: Kept things clean until a baby split in the 9th. Struck out to make my average.

X, S7 1, 8 /, 9 /, 9 /, X, S7 2, X, S5 4, X 9 /.
Switched to the Force Pearl in the 5th. Kept things clean except for 3 splits that pretty much killed me.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.00 pins
Strikes: 44%
Spares: 63% picked up

Single Pin spares: 70% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin (4x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 4-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, nor 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 80% (12/15)
Multiple Pin spares: 100% (5/5)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 183.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 190.67.

Positives
- Mostly good from a health standpoint. Achilles is a little sore, but otherwise good.
- Somehow, I won all 3 card games! First time that's happened in years.

Negatives
- Team lost 3 out of 4 to a bad team that was getting about 130+ pins.
- 3-pins....which should be automatic...were not tonight.
- Splits killed me in game 3. Heavy penalty as the lanes broke down.

Oh well. It was fun being a 700 series bowler while it lasted! :cool:

Aslan

03-04-2024, 09:51 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 27

Bowled against a pretty good team. And the other team was firing on all cylinders...again.

542 Series: 188-174-180

Practice made me think the best strategy would be to use the Trident Odyssey (TO) on the right lane and the Scorpion Sting (SS) on the left. Switched to the SS on the right lane in the 9th. Switched to the Rhino Gold (RG) in the 10th.
8 /, X, X, X, X, S7 2, 9 /, S7 -, 9 -, 9 /X.

Just terrible. Finally switched to the RG on both lanes in the 7th.
7 2, S8 1, 9 /, 9 -, X, 7 /, X, 9 -, X, XXX.

Switched to the Force Pearl in the 3rd game...kinda hoping it'd give me a miracle.
X, X, 9 -, 9 /, 9 -, X, X, 8 /, S8 1, 9 /X.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.12 pins
Strikes: 47%
Spares: 44% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (5/10)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 3-pin, 4-pin, 7-pin (2x), and 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 57% (8/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 75% (3/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 180.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 199.67.

Positives
- Kinda hard to compare scores week-to-week when you throw a 720...cuz it's virtually impossible for me to repeat that. But, had I shot my single-pin spares better (or more of those pocket smashing hits actually struck)...I coulda averaged around 200.
- I got a little more familiar with the Rhino Gold and what I need to do to adjust to it.

Negatives
- Well, we lost all 4...so wave bye bye to 2nd place.
- Only one game slightly over my average.
- Could not carry. Smashed the pocket and left 7s and 10s.
- Obviously, spare shooting...abysmal. Hurts more that I missed a few of them by a playing card's width.
- "Tweeked" my back in Game 1...probably from bending over and switching balls each frame. But, it didn't help my delivery.

Hard to come down from that 720..but it did bump our team into a brief sole possession of 2nd place. Pretty good when one of your 4 bowlers is just learning to bowl and another is coming back from surgery and bowls with a 50 average with her left arm.

As for my personal accomplishments, last week I finished 1st in scratch series, and 2nd in scratch game, handicap game, and handicap series. Also 2nd in handicap series for the season (thus far). It's not a ring...but I'll take it.

boomer

03-05-2024, 12:15 PM

Ugh - I hear ya. Sometimes ya just gotta grind.

Aslan

03-08-2024, 09:21 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 28

Still in first place and dominating the league...but coming off three weeks managing only 1 point. So, the lead is getting drastically smaller.

569 Series: 213-167-189

9 /, X, , X, X, 9 /, X, 6 2, 9 /, X, X 9 -.
Struggled early with lanes behaving drier than usual. Switched to the Scorpion Sting in the 8th. Wasn't terribly upset with the score...mainly because I was still in the Strip-O-Mania pot by striking in the 3rd and 9th.

6 /, 8 /, X, X, 9 -, 9 -, X, 6 /, 7 -, X 9 -.
I thought I might salvage something, but a missed 8-pin and 10-pin pretty much ruined things. And the complete whiff on a 1-2-4 washout in the 9th was just a final slap in the face.

8 /, X, 6 2, 9 /, X, X, X, S8 1, 7 1, XX9.
After moving left got me a nice 2-8...which I fortunately picked up (I suck at that leave), switched to the Force Pearl and hoped for another strong performance by the grey beast. But, a baby split in the 8th and a chopped 6-9-10 in the 9th forced me to have an above average 10th just to make my average.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 47%
Spares: 47% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (7/10)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin and 10-pin (2x)
Also left a single 4-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin, and 8-pin.

Makeable spares: 50% (8/16)
Multiple Pin spares: 50% (4/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6-9-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 189.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 197.67.

Positives
- Had my highest game (in this league) in about 4 weeks.
- Despite the rather depressing PinPal stats, I actually bowled better than last week and above my average.
- Less splits tonight.
- Won two card games...thats 5 out of the last 6. Probably a career best.

Negatives
- Team lost 3 out of 4...again. That's 2 of 12 over the past 3 weeks. We went from comfortably in 1st, to now being one week away from being bumped to 2nd. :mad:
- Missed THREE single pins in Game 2. Can't do that.

Actually, the biggest NEGATIVE of the night was when I dumped my drink on the table and got the cards, money, towel, and a phone all wet. Used my towel to stop as much of it as I could...so no more pregame towel routine.

I feel a little more confident with my knees healthy and my recent success. But, I'm also experiencing a new "aggravation" in that I 'know' I can bowl better...but I'm not bowling better. I mean, I AM bowling better...but the expectations have went up as well.

J Anderson

03-09-2024, 08:18 AM

Aslan

03-11-2024, 11:23 PM

My Wednesday team is going through the same thing. I joined the team halfway through the season when one of their regular bowlers went out for the rest of the season with a bad shoulder. Team was in 1st by about 12 points. We extended our lead to over 14, but the last four weeks we’ve only taken 2 points each week. Lead is down to 10
Yeah. I had it happen before, and things got really tense in those last couple weeks. That season, back in Iowa, we had to play a roll off to secure 1st place. On Wednesdays, we're still in 1st place, but our lead has went from almost 20 points...to being 2 points away from falling to 2nd.

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 28

Bowled against a decent team. They were short-handed, but had solid bowlers.

561 Series: 161-180-220

I smashed the pocket every frame until the 9th. Just abysmal spare shooting coupled with poor carry.
X, 9 -, 9 -, X, 9 /, 9 -, X, X, 8 /, 9 -.

Switched to the Scorpion Sting for Game 2. Made one bad shot through the first 6 frames, but a pocket 7-10 in the 4th stung me. Then, the lanes started to transition a bit.
X, X, 8 /, S8 1, X, X, 9 -, X, S8 1, 9 /X.

Switched to the Force Pearl (FP) in the 3rd game...kinda hoping it'd have the usual magic, despite a surface change I wasn't so sure about. :confused: Took a little adjustment, but finally the FP worked it's magic for a decent finish.
9 /, 8 /, 8 1, 9 /, S6 3, X, X, X, X, XXX.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.24 pins
Strikes: 51%
Spares: 43% picked up

Single Pin spares: 44% (4/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (5x)
Also left a single 2-pin, 4-pin, and 7-pin (2x).

Makeable spares: 53% (7/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 75% (3/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 187.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 206.33.

Positives
- Did slightly better than last week.
- I don't know how, but I think we took 3 out of 4 points...which means we'll at worst be tied for 3rd next week...possibly in 1st.

Negatives
- Second week of struggling with carry.
- Obviously, once AGAIN, poor spare shooting.

Had some serious carry issues all night. And, given my horrid spare shooting...not a good combination. Might have to play some lowball this week.

J Anderson

03-12-2024, 02:10 PM

When the ball isn’t carrying it’s easy for the brain to switch from if “I stand here and hit my target I will make this spare” to “Oh no, I have to make this spare”.

Aslan

03-15-2024, 09:16 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 29

Still in first place, but only because the 2nd place team is struggling almost as much as we are. I had been home sick with a sinus illness for the past two days, but felt well enough to bowl...sort of. :confused:

479 Series: 168-164-147

X, 7 /, X, S8 1, X, X, X, 6 3, 9 -, 7 -.
Wow. Felt good. Let like I was making good shots. But, the lanes were playing very dry and I kept having to move left...much deeper than I usually play. Missed a 6-pin in the 9th which destroyed my score and my confidence.

7 2, X, X, 8 /, 6 1, S8 -, 8 /, 9 /, 8 1, XXX.
Switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS) for game 2....and thought that would help...because I usually have to adjust right when I switch from the Trident Odyssey to the SS. But...struggles with multi-pin spares forced me to strike out in the 10th just to salvage a 'bad' score.

6 2, X, 9 -, X, 8 1, 9 /, 8 /, 8 /, S8 1, X 9 /.
Same problems as Game 1. Kept having to move left to counter the lane conditions...and was well inside my usual comfort zone. Switched to the Rhino Gold in the 8th...again moving right to adjust for the weaker surface on that ball; but nothing. Too many opens, too few strikes....means I throw my 7th lowest scoring game in this league.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.67 pins
Strikes: 39%
Spares: 40% picked up

Single Pin spares: 60% (3/5)
Most common single-pin leave: 4-pin (2x)
Also left a single 3-pin, 6-pin, and 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 47% (8/17)
Multiple Pin spares: 41% (5/12)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-5, 2-4-5, 3-9, 2-4-7-8 (2x each)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 159.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 166.33.

Positives
- ????

Negatives
- Team lost 3 out of 4...again. That's 3 of 16 over the past 4 weeks. We're still in 1st, but that's only because the 2nd place team only could manage one point as well.
- A sub-40% strike rate is abysmal.
- Really struggled on the left-side with multi-pin leaves. Maybe because I'm not used to shooting those as much.

Just one of those nights. Maybe bowling sick had something to do with it...I dunno.

chrono00

03-15-2024, 11:21 PM

When the ball isn’t carrying it’s easy for the brain to switch from if “I stand here and hit my target I will make this spare” to “Oh no, I have to make this spare”.

Sounds like my second game last night…. 6-8 counts on the first 7 frames, the “oh no I have to make this spare” thought happened quite a lot on some tough shots. Somehow struck in the 8th, and finished off solid 181 clean game lol.

Aslan

03-21-2024, 01:17 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 30

Still hanging on to first place...about 4.5 points ahead of the 2nd place team...who are also struggling.

517 Series: 168-170-179

X, S7 -, X, X, X, 9 -, 7 2, S8 -, 9 /, 8 /X.
I wasn't as consistent as I have been, and it seemed like any minor miss or difference in hand position and I wasn't going to strike and seemed to get a maximum penalty (splits) each time I did miss.

X, 9 -, 9 -, 7 1, X, X, 9 /, 6 /, X, 8 /X.
It wasn't a terrible game, but missing 2 straight 10-pins early on just angered me to no end. Switched to the Scorpion Sting (SS) and moved right to see if I could get a better line in the 6-9 area (vs 9-12 area). But, it wasn't all carry...I was pulling shots and just wasn't 'clicking'.

8 /, X, X, X, 7 2, X, S8 1, X 9 /, S7 2.
Stuck with the SS for all of game 3. Not a terrible game, but the splits continued to come and really hit me hard in the 10th.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.91 pins
Strikes: 46%
Spares: 41% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (3/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 7-pin and 10-pin. (2x each)
Also left a single 2-pin and 6-pin.

Makeable spares: 53% (7/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 57% (4/7)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-9 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/4)

Average over 3 games: 172.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 181.67.

Positives
- The pinpal numbers are better. It's one of those nights where you "feel" like you bowled terribly, but you actually did "okay".

Negatives
- Team lost all 4. That's 3 of 20 over the past 5 weeks.
- Too many missed single-pins...again.

Really upset with myself. We bowled a good team that was mostly young 2-handers...one of whom actually is a coworker of mine. And I just embarrass myself. And the team is in serious jeopardy of losing the top spot if we can't get our acts together.

Aslan

03-21-2024, 01:48 PM

This season (2 leagues) can really be divided like this:

First 10 games: Finding form and timing after spending more than a year away from bowling while also dealing with injuries.
Average (series): 181 (545)
Line: Up and in just inside/outside 2nd arrow.
Ball Speed: 12-14mph

Next 26 games: Form and timing are "back", but still dealing with injury issues.
Average (series): 188 (565)
Line: Up and in just inside 2nd arrow.
Ball Speed: 12-14mph

Next 15 games: Form and timing back to 'decent' and bowling somewhat "injury-free".
Average (series): 191 (575)
Line: Developed a slightly more angular shot. Standing left of center and aiming just inside 2nd arrow.
Ball Speed: 12-16mph

Last 6 games: End of season slump.
Average (series): 178 (536)
Line: Developed a slightly more angular shot. Standing left of center and aiming just inside 2nd arrow.
Ball Speed: 15-18mph

Not sure what is causing the current slump. I've had to straighten my line (just a little) because my speed is up, even with my shortened approach. It almost seems like the worse I'm doing, the harder I am trying...leading to worse results.

Aslan

03-24-2024, 11:03 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 30

Skipped last week because I had to go to the hospital Thursday and my car was still at work. We're battling a team for 2nd, but the 1st place team is starting to pull away. I currently hold the #1 position in handicap series with something like an 869.

536 Series: 195-150-191

Had a good line in practice, standing about 26 and targeting just inside 2nd arrow. But, once the match started, I was consistently hitting the pocket; but no carry (again). I made all 3 single-pin spares, but chopped a 2-5 in the 6th and a baby split in the 8th.
9 /, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 1, X, S8 1, X, XXX.

Was hoping to stick with the Trident Odyssey a little longer, but had to make the move to the Scorpion Sting (SS) in the 2nd frame. And, this game, the single-pin spare conversions just weren't there. :(. A big 4 in the 10th was the final bullet. :mad:
8 -, X, 9 /, X, 9 -, X, 9 -, 9 /, X, S6 2.

Stuck with SS for the first two frames. Debated whether to move to the dry and throw the Vintage Rhino Gold, but decided to take out the Pyramid Force. Good ball movement, continued to hammer the pocket, but the carry just wasn't there. Chopped a left side 3/4 bucket in the 2nd frame and barely missed converting the 6-10 in the 9th.
X, 7 1, X, X, 9 /, X, 9 /, X, 8 -, XXX.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.29 pins
Strikes: 55%
Spares: 46% picked up

Single Pin spares: 77% (4/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x)
Also left a single 5-pin, 7-pin, and 4-pin (3x).

Makeable spares: 53% (7/13)
Multiple Pin spares: 0% (0/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: 6-10 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 178.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 186.33.

Positives
- Form felt good.
- Knees and Achilles felt fine.
- Me striking out in the 10th of Game 3 set the team up for squeaking out at least one point on the night.

Negatives
- Third straight week, in this league, of dealing with bad carry.
- Even though single-pin conversion was okay overall, I can't afford to miss so many makable spares when I'm struggling to run strikes together.
- Team only managed 1 point, so we may be saying goodbye to any hopes of taking first place.

Numbers were very similar to 2 weeks ago. Just still in some kind of end of season slump. These scores weren't terrible...just rather unlucky that I had a split in the 9th of one game and the 10th of another game. I don't know if my line is too aggressive, my speed is elevated, or I have too much surface on my balls.

Aslan

03-28-2024, 02:20 PM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 31

Still hanging on to first place...about 3.5 points ahead of the 2nd place team...who have also been struggling.

490 Series: 181-136-173

9 /, S7 2, 8 1, X, 9 /, X, X, X, 9 -, X 9 -.
Had a decent line in practice...but couldn't maintain it very long. Ended up using the Trident Odyssey on the left lane and the Scorpion Sting (SS) on right lane. Not ideal, and I rarely do that, but I just couldn't get any carry standing 26-30 and targeting 9-11. So, I moved right and used the weaker SS...but it didn't really help much.

X, 5 4, X, 6 3, X, X, 8 1, 9 -, 6 -, 9 -.
Just...wow. Chopped on 3 multi-pin leaves and whiffed on the 4th. Barely missed a 6-pin in the 8th and a 5-pin in the 10th. What an embaraasing disaster. Switched to the Rhino Gold (RG) for the first 5 frames...switched to the Force Pearl (FP) in the 6th. Abysmal spare shooting. :mad:

X, X, 7 2, 7 /, X, 9 -, 8 /, 8 /, 7 /, 9 /S6.
Decided to just use the RG and play a less aggressive angle. There wasn't enough carrydown to use the FP...and if there isn't enough carrydown...that ball makes insanely hard turns (for a symmetric core). But, the RG has never carried well for me...so, a ton of weak leaves to deal with.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.59 pins
Strikes: 37%
Spares: 36% picked up

Single Pin spares: 37% (3/8)
Most common single-pin leave: 10-pin. (2x)
Never left a single 1-pin, 3-pin, nor 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 38% (7/18)
Multiple Pin spares: 40% (4/10)
Most common multi-pin leave: 3-6 (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/1)

Average over 3 games: 163.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 177.00.

Positives
N/A

Negatives
Everything...or nearly everything.
- One of the worst 5 games I've thrown in this league.
- One of the worst 5 series I've thrown in this league.
- The other team was absent, which screws up my progression because there's only 3 people bowling on my line.
- I got completely *****ed on at least 2-3 shots. A stone 8 in the 1st frame of game 1. A solid hit in the 6th of game 3 that left a 7-pin. A great shot in the 10th of game 3...left a 4-pin that wobbled and wobbled but didn't fall. :mad:
- No card game wins.
- Don't know if the team is getting any points, but we're not getting all 4 since we didn't bowl our average at LEAST one game.

As my knees and achilles have gotten better, I've been able to improve my timing...which has led me to have to move left. When I first started in this league, I was standing around 18-20 and targeting 7-10 at the arrows. As I've gotten more and more hand and leverage into my shot, I've had to adjust that line to standing 26-29 and targeting that same 7-10 area at the arrows. If I try to move right and throw my current shot, it hooks to the left side of the headpin. But, if I don't get enough hand in the ball standing where I presently stand, I'm gonna miss the headpin to the right.

Gonna fiddle with the ball surfaces again. I think I have too much surface (500) on the SS...which is causing it to limp into the pocket and not make it through to the back of the pin deck without deflecting. I'm also (fingers crossed) going to be getting a couple new balls this weekend. Gonna replace the Rhino Gold with a Brunswick Endeavor. Not a ball I use very often...dry lane conditions kinda thing. But, it should have a little more kick to it than the Rhino Gold. And, gonna finally retire the Force Pearl and replace it with a Radical Outer Limits Pearl. As much as I loved my Force Pearl, I gotta replace it eventually...and I've had good experiences with Radical. I'll still be primarily using the Trident Odyssey and Scorpion Sting...but the Outer Limits Pearl should get a fair amount of Game 3 usage.

The only good things about the other team being absent is I didn't embarass myself in front of 2-3 of the better bowlers in the league.

Aslan

04-04-2024, 01:39 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 32

Still hanging on to first place...but at this point there are 5 teams who are all within range.

593 Series: 180-200-213

7 2, X, X, S6 2, X, X, S8 /, X, X, S7 -.
Kinda hard to score well when you open every 3rd frame.

X, S7 1, 9 -, X, X, X, X, X, 9 /, 7 2.
Well, picked up a single-pin...even though it was a 5. Ran a 5-bagger together to put me in a good place to score, but that ended with a chopped 3-6-10.

X, 9 -, X, X, X, 9 /, 8 /, X, 8 /, XX8.
Stuck with the Scorpion Sting...but wasn't very confident. Converted more spares, which helped. No splits also helped.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 9.12 pins
Strikes: 59%
Spares: 41% picked up

Single Pin spares: 50% (2/4)
Most common single-pin leave: n/a
Left a single 3-pin, 5-pin, 6-pin, and 10-pin.

Makeable spares: 50% (4/8)
Multiple Pin spares: 50% (2/4)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 25% (1/4)

Average over 3 games: 197.67.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 205.33.

Positives
- Bowled better than I have in about a month.
- Team finally won a point.
- Definitely are still in the top 3 and within striking distance of winning the league.
- I won TWO card games...not bad.

Negatives
- Yet another week where we couldn't even split.
- Spare shooting was bad...again.
- The team could fall to as low as #5 after this beating.

If the team we were supposed to bowl last week, doesn't make up their games this week, we should still be in 1st place by about a point. However, if we lose a few points in that post-bowl...we could be in the 3-4 game for position round next week.

Never got to my new balls. The Endeavor is a dry lanes ball and its not a ball I throw very often...so no surprise there. And, the Scorpion Sting was just doing too well to pull it and move to the Outer Limits Pearl.

Aslan

04-08-2024, 06:29 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 31

We used to be as high as 2nd place, but have fallen down to 4th. Only two weeks left to go after this week and we are bowling against the league leaders...so, a pretty important match.

532 Series: 185-153-194

Didn't like my line with the Odyssey in practice and decided to start with the Scorpion Sting (SS). But...continued to have carry issues. I'd try to move a little inside, only to start missing right and leaving the 1-2 or 1-2-8. Then I'd move back right and go through the nose. Then I'd move back inside and leave a 2-5. Just maddening! :mad:
X, X, 9 /, 6 /, 9 /, 7 /, X, 8 /, S7 -, 8 /X.

Kept with the SS through 5, but then switched to the Endeavor. First time I've used this ball since I got it drilled a couple weeks back. But, same story....different ball. I'd move in and miss right...I'd move right and miss left. Beyond frustrating! :mad: I knew the game (and really the night) was lost when I dumped both 1st frame shots in the gutter. When you're standing at 30 and aiming at 5...thats gonna happen.
- -, 9 /, 7 /, S8 1, 9 /, 9 -, X, X, X, S7 -.

After ending with a split in Game 2, I decided to switch to the Outer Limits Pearl (OLP). Again, first time using it in leagues. Had a lot of good shots...the ball definitely has ample backend...but I'd hit the pocket and half the time leave a 10-pin. If I missed to the right, it'd dive into the 3-pin and leave me a 1-2-4-10. Finally got things under control to finish, but way too little...way too late. Left a 5-7 on my final ball...and we ended up losing our 4th point of the night by 2 pins. Ughhh!
X, 9 /, X, 9 /, - 9, 6 1, 9 /, X, X, XXS8.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.30
Strikes: 39%
Spares: 63% picked up

Single Pin spares: 87% (7/8)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 3-pin, 6-pin, 7-pin, and 9-pin.

Makeable spares: 75% (12/16)
Multiple Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: full rack (2x)

Splits: 0% (0/3)

Average over 3 games: 177.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 181.33.

Positives
- Picked up a 1-2-10.
- Didn't "bowl badly".
- Better spare shooting tonight.

Negatives
- Fourth straight week, in this league, of dealing with bad carry.
- Team missed taking 1 point by two pins in Game 3.
- Achilles is a bit sore.

I'm starting to think some of the league bowlers were griping about the pattern having too much oil...and maybe the center changed something. Or, maybe its just the surface I put on the Scorpion Sting. I had it down to 500 hoping I wouldn't have to move so far right when balling down from the Odyssey to the SS...but it really sucks the energy out of the ball. I changed the surface to 1000, but I'm still not seeing the carry improve much. I think I'll bump it up to 1500 and try again.

The Endeavor is going to take a little getting used to. It's certainly more powerful than the Rhino Gold...which was a bit underwhelming. It almost seems like it is very similar to the SS...but it shouldn't be. It has a higher RG and its not that much newer. Not a big concern given I rarely use that spot in my arsenal.

The Outer Limits Pearl (OLP) has a massive backend. It's gonna need to given it has some very big shoes to fill; replacing the Force Pearl in my lineup. But, ya gotta keep moving forward. I thought I'd never find a ball as good as the Scandal Pearl...and then I started throwing the Fortera Exile and everything was great. Then I got nervous replacing the Fortera Exile with the Force Pearl. So, the "skid/flip" spot in my arsenal is an important one...and I'm gonna need to get a lot of performance out of the OLP.

Very doubtful this team is gonna finish 1st. No bigee. This is just a "fun" league. I mean, we have one bowler that averages 49 and another that averages like 113. So, its not a team built for a deep playoff run by any means.

Aslan

04-11-2024, 01:26 AM

Wednesday Night Established Men's League

Week 33

Fell from 1st place to 4th after last week's dismal performance coupled with a team making up (post-bowling) some games where we lost points. This is the final money night. Next week counts for average but not standings.

So, coming in;
1. High handicap team: 75-53
2. Lowest handicap team: 74.5-53.5
3. Second Lowest handicap team: 74-54
4. MY TEAM: 74-54
5. Third highest handicap team: 73-55

Scenarios Where We Could Win:
1. Top 2 teams split. We take all 4 and we win outright.
2. Top 2 teams split. We go 3-1. We win tiebreaker with top (high handicap) team. And, #5 team doesn't take all 4.
3. Top team takes 3, we take all 4, and we win the tiebreaker (same as above).

565 Series: 193-205-167

X, 9 /, 6 /, 9 /, X, X, X, 7 /, 7 /, 6 2.
Same problems I've been having. Play outside and go through the nose. Play inside and miss right. Switched to the Scorpion Sting in the 10th after leaving two straight 2-pin combo leaves.

Team won. So did the High handicap team (#1) and the #5 team. Standings after Game 1:
1. Team #1; 76
2. MY TEAM; 75
3. Team #2; 74.5
4. Team #3; 74
5. Team #5; 74

S7 /, X, 9 /, S8 1, 9 /, X, X, 9 /, 9 /, XXX.
Used the Scorpion Sting all of Game 2, but struggled to get my line just right. Splits didn't help either and kept me from a clean game. Their team was on fire and took us down, despite my better than average performance.

1. Team #1; 76
2. Team #2; 75.5
3. Team #3; 75
4. Team #5; 75
5. MY TEAM; 75

X, S7 2, 8 /, X, 8 1, X, X, 7 -, X, 8 /X.
Started making bad shots. A pulled shot would result in a split or a 3-6. A pushed shot resulted in a 1-2-10 or 1-2.

Final Standings
1. Team #2; 77.5
2. Team #5; 77
3. MY TEAM; 77
4. Team #1; 76
5. Team #3; 75

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.88 pins
Strikes: 48%
Spares: 70% picked up

Single Pin spares: 100% (6/6)
Most common single-pin leave: 2-pin and 10-pin (2x each).
Also left a single 6-pin and 7-pin.

Makeable spares: 78% (11/14)
Multiple Pin spares: 62% (5/8)
Most common multi-pin leave: 2-4-5-8 bucket and 3-6 (2x each)

Splits: 33% (1/3)

Average over 3 games: 188.33.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: N/A

Positives
- Still managed to tie for 2nd, end up in 3rd, in a fairly competitive league.
- Picked up a 6-7-10 split in the 1st frame of Game 2.
- Spare shooting was above average and, for single-pins, was excellent.
- Won a card game.

Negatives
- Had 1st place in our hands for months. And we end up in 3rd.
- Strike rate was low...and rarely could I run three strikes together.
- Still not confident in the Scorpion Sting and it's 1000 surface. It moves sooner, but hits kinda "dead".

So, we finish 3rd, but probably deserved to finish 4th. Ya just can't go6-7 weeks straight and only have 3-4 points to show for it. We built up a great 20-point lead, only to fall apart at the end. :confused:

Aslan

04-18-2024, 02:13 PM

Sunday Night Established Mixed League

Week 32

We went in to the 2nd to last week of the season in the top 5, within striking distance of 1st...but a LOT of things would have to go right for that to happen.

576 Series: 175-212-189

Switched from the Trident Odyssey to the Scorpion Sting (SS) after 5 frames. The change was relatively seamless, but I started to lose carry near the end.
X, S6 3, 9 /, 7 2, X, X, X, 7 2, 9 /, 9 /7

Stuck it out with the SS rather than impatiently jumping to the Endeavor...even though I really wanted to try out the Endeavor. But, my patience paid off. REALLY ticked me off that my clean game was ruined by a decent shot that transitioned and blew through the nose with maximum big-4 penalty.
9 /, X, 9 /, X, X, X, X, 8 /, X, S6 1.

Was around the pocket all game, just couldn't carry and was abysmal on corner-pin spare shooting. :mad:
X, X, X, 9 -, 9 -, X, X, 9 -, X, 9 /S6.

PinPal Stats:
First Ball Average: 8.30
Strikes: 50%
Spares: 50% picked up

Single Pin spares: 66% (6/9)
Most common single-pin leaves: 10-pin (4x).
Also left a single 4-pin (2x), 5-pin (2x), and 6-pin.

Makeable spares: 58% (7/12)
Multiple Pin spares: 33% (1/3)
Most common multi-pin leave: n/a

Splits: 0% (0/2)

Average over 3 games: 192.00.
Average had I picked up all single-pin spares: 203.33.

Positives
- Threw a 200+ game that was almost clean.
- Best Sunday I've had since throwing that 720 on 2/25.

Negatives
- Bad spare shooting...again!
- Team could only take 1 point from a very solid team.

Oh well. We put up a good fight. All bowlers got better as the season progressed. We just didn't have the talent.