BowlingBoards Virtual Tour 2014 Standings

[Aslan]

I will be listing scores and standings here.

Scores will only be listed as I get the scores for the PAIR so nobody has the advantage of knowing what their virtual opponent has bowled.

The "standings" post will be next and I'll update it as the tour continues so you'll aways be able to find it on Page 1 of this thread.

[Aslan]

Current 2014 Tour Standings:

noeymc 4 points
Jeral999ok 3 points
Mudpuppy 3 points
Stormed1 3 points
tccstudent 3 points
vdubtx 3 points
Bunny 1 point
classygranny 1 point
MWhite 1 point
ZDawg 1 points
Aslan 0 points
JAnderson 0 points
J-Dilly 0 points
tr33frog 0 points

Current Wild Card Entry* Standings

Most Improved Average: Current Leader: Mudpuppy 190.63 to 200.50.
Highest Overall Scratch Pin Fall: Current Leader: Vdubtx; 641 pins
Most Games Above Average: Current Leader: noeymc; 3.

[Aslan]

First Month Scores:

tccstudent: 214 (245), 222 (253), 174 (205) = 703 (Hdcp)
Bunny: 114 (181), 107 (174), 170 (237) = 592 (Hdcp)

classygranny: 162 (201), 169 (208), 167 (206) = 615 (Hdcp)
vdubtx: 169 (173), 215 (219), 257 (261) = 653 (Hdcp)

Mudpuppy: 254 (280), 157 (183), 222 (248) = 711 (Hdcp)
MWhite: 221 (245), 160 (184), 182 (206) = 635 (Hdcp)

Stormed1: 179 (224), 146 (191), 164 (209) = 624 (Hdcp)
ZDawg: 146 (207), 162 (223), 130 (191) = 621 (Hdcp)

Aslan: 144 (203), 134 (193), 135 (194) = 590 (Hdcp)
tr33frog: 213 (209), 213 (209), 213 (209) = 627 (Hdcp)

Jeral999ok: 195 (235), 222 (262), 161 (201) = 698 (Hdcp)
J-Dilly: 187 (206), 187 (206), 187 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)

JAnderson: 171 (195), 180 (204), 201 (225) = 624 (Hdcp)
noeymc: 171 (224), 171 (224), 180 (233) = 681 (Hdcp)

[vdubtx]

First Month Scores:

tccstudent: 214 (245), 222 (253), 174 (205) = 703 (Hdcp)
Bunny: 114 (181), 107 (174), 170 (237) = 592 (Hdcp)

classygranny: 162 (201), 169 (208), 167 (206) = 615 (Hdcp)
vdubtx: 169 (191), 215 (237), 257 (279) = 707 (Hdcp)

(more to follow as scores come in)
Scratching me head at how I am getting 22 pins handicap per game???

I thought we were using 90% of 220 which would mean I would only get 4 pins added per game. Doesn't change the outcome, but still, let's get it right.

[Aslan]

Scratching me head at how I am getting 22 pins handicap per game???

I thought we were using 90% of 220 which would mean I would only get 4 pins added per game. Doesn't change the outcome, but still, let's get it right.

According to the spreadsheet you have a 195 average. Your handicap is calculated as 220-195 = 25 * 0.90 = 22.5. Rounded down to 22.

Is this not correct?

[vdubtx]

According to the spreadsheet you have a 195 average. Your handicap is calculated as 220-195 = 25 * 0.90 = 22.5. Rounded down to 22.

Is this not correct?

No it's not correct, here is quote from bowler info page:



Representing Northern Texas:
- vdubtx, 215 average, +4, 219 handicap.

[Aslan]

No it's not correct, here is quote from bowler info page:

Corrected. I have no idea how it went from 215 to 195 unless I fat fingered it. It was right in the spreadsheet, but then I went back and changed the averages to reflect Mike's issue with rounding and then with "games played per league" so I must have goofed something up. I'll review the averages in the sheet with the averages on the bowler info page tonight to make sure this is ironed out moving forward.

No effect on the standings though, same outcome.

[Mudpuppy]

You got my scores right Aslan? Who am I bowling against?

[vdubtx]

You got my scores right Aslan? Who am I bowling against?

You were against MWhite.

[Aslan]

updated

[Hampe]

Just a suggestion: You can use google spreadsheet if you want to have the standings/results in an easier to read (and probably edit) format.

[Mudpuppy]

Just a suggestion: You can use google spreadsheet if you want to have the standings/results in an easier to read (and probably edit) format.

Yes I thought a different format would be good as well - I was going to work on it when I had some time and all the scores were in since I am the unofficial secretariat

[Mudpuppy]

Ok maybe this will help - Aslan I can email you the excel workbook if you want to use it or tell me how to modify to your liking. I have it set up to calculate everything it can - you just plug in the scores and you can copy and paste April's pairings to keep the format for May, June, etc. so you can just type in the necessary information. I tried to find an online template that was already done for us but they are all suited to team events - i.e. ZDawg, Aslan and Mudpuppy vs JAnderson, classygranny and tccstudent. Not good for our purposes. And no I didn't purposely put my name at the top - did sort by points and then alphabetical by name - that is how it sorted. Note the rank is tied for 1, 2 & 3 right now. NR = Not Reported. Let me know what you think:

http://i340.photobucket.com/albums/o348/mudpuppyr6/VBTScoresApril2014incomplete.jpg (http://s340.photobucket.com/user/mudpuppyr6/media/VBTScoresApril2014incomplete.jpg.html)

http://i340.photobucket.com/albums/o348/mudpuppyr6/Standings_April2014incomplete.jpg (http://s340.photobucket.com/user/mudpuppyr6/media/Standings_April2014incomplete.jpg.html)

http://i340.photobucket.com/albums/o348/mudpuppyr6/AveragesApril2014incomplete.jpg (http://s340.photobucket.com/user/mudpuppyr6/media/AveragesApril2014incomplete.jpg.html)

[Aslan]

I'll have to look at it when I get home.

The only downside to this type of thing is...as is evident by the above statement...anyone viewing the thread on a secure network cannot see whatever it is you have embedded.

IT Security is a *$*%*.

[Mudpuppy]

I'll have to look at it when I get home.

The only downside to this type of thing is...as is evident by the above statement...anyone viewing the thread on a secure network cannot see whatever it is you have embedded.

IT Security is a *$*%*.

Are images blocked on some networks? I know youtube videos are but these are images posted through photobucket. Or maybe you could attach a pdf? Then it can be downloaded and viewed. Can print via pdf creator. If you are not familiar with any of that if you post the numbers I can plug into the sheets and post as images and pdfs. Then there are options. That should satisfy the majority. One main thing I like is all the information in 1 place. It took me a long time to go through the threads and gather the info - which is why I didn't even know who I was bowling against until after I bowled. I might have saw it when you posted it but I probably forgot - this is a quicker reference. Could also start a VBT fb page as well so information is quicker to find.

[tccstudent]

I dont get that chart it says I bowled in Rancho Cucamonga and says bunny bowled in Broken Arrow Lanes

Me and Jerral actually bowled at Green Country Lanes in Muskogee

[noeymc]

i like ityou might be able to upload it to tinypic or photobucket and do it thatt way

[Mudpuppy]

I dont get that chart it says I bowled in Rancho Cucamonga and says bunny bowled in Broken Arrow Lanes

Me and Jerral actually bowled at Green Country Lanes in Muskogee

I spent a lot of time searching the threads and just went with the initial info - Aslan can clean up the inconsistencies if he wants to use the spreadsheets. Mainly the reason I did it was to put more information in one place so we don't have to search all over the threads. And yes I used photobucket. I think Aslan was saying some IT departments block images from anywhere.

[Aslan]

And yes I used photobucket. I think Aslan was saying some IT departments block images from anywhere.

Correct. I can't see photo bucket images or in some cases people like DHoff or VDub or Iceman will think they are bing "cute" and post some image mocking me….and I can't see it…not from my work computer. I CAN see youtube because they changed their policy on that…but links to certain image hosting sites I can't see. I can see them now on my home network.

[Aslan]

First Month Scores:

Stormed1: 179 (224), 146 (191), 164 (209) = 624 (Hdcp)
ZDawg: 146 (207), 162 (223), 130 (191) = 621 (Hdcp)

(more to follow as scores come in)

Closest match thus far!! ZDawg would have split had it not been for the -10 pin home center penalty!! :eek: 624 - 621!!! :eek:

[Mudpuppy]

Correct. I can't see photo bucket images or in some cases people like DHoff or VDub or Iceman will think they are bing "cute" and post some image mocking me….and I can't see it…not from my work computer. I CAN see youtube because they changed their policy on that…but links to certain image hosting sites I can't see. I can see them now on my home network.

Can you open a PDF if I post that? Do you want to use the sheets or no? Or another version like MS Word that is more readable? Any of the information good? None of it?

[noeymc]

i like it easy to read

[Aslan]

Can you open a PDF if I post that? Do you want to use the sheets or no? Or another version like MS Word that is more readable? Any of the information good? None of it?

Hey man…I'll post the scores and if you want to help by putting them into a more readable format…awesome sauce. Just wanted to let you know that some images on photo bucket are blocked by firewalls.

[Mike White]

- Regardless of point totals, the participant(s) with the:
- most games bowled above average.
- most improved average.
- highest scratch pinball.
will receive automatic bids to the tournament. If there is a tie or one of those participants already makes the cut, we'll just continue down the points list to fill the last 3 spots.




Current Wild Card Entry* Standings

Most Improved Average: Current Leader: Mudpuppy 190.63 to 200.50.
Highest Overall Pin Fall: Current Leader: Vdubtx; 641 pins
Highest Scratch Game: Current Leader: Vdubtx; 257.

Where did Highest Scratch Game come from?

What happened to most games over average?

[Aslan]

Where did Highest Scratch Game come from?

What happened to most games over average?

Ooo….good catch. Thats actually an error and I shall go fix that. You are correct dear sir…it's highest total pinfall (scratch)…which is the same thing as what is listed since it's only one week. But yes, it's not "highest scratch game", it's "most games above average".

Thanks!

[Mudpuppy]

Hey man…I'll post the scores and if you want to help by putting them into a more readable format…awesome sauce. Just wanted to let you know that some images on photo bucket are blocked by firewalls.

I will play around with it a bit. I think I can make it more readable. That was a first run quick go at it. Question: How did you figure averages for month 2?

[Mudpuppy]

Post the rest of the scores and I will put into the sheet.

[Aslan]

I will play around with it a bit. I think I can make it more readable. That was a first run quick go at it. Question: How did you figure averages for month 2?
Month 2 averages are calculated as:

((original average * 3) + (April average *3))/6. Average rounded down. Handicap rounded down.


Post the rest of the scores and I will put into the sheet.

All the scores are posted for April.

[vdubtx]

Month 2 averages are calculated as:

((original average * 3) + (April average *3))/6. Average rounded down. Handicap rounded down.



All the scores are posted for April.

The point Mike White was making is that no event, tournament, league etc. uses that method of calculating averages. You have an entering average to base handicap off of to begin with, then you only use the scores actually bowled in the event going forward.

[Aslan]

The point Mike White was making is that no event, tournament, league etc. uses that method of calculating averages. You have an entering average to base handicap off of to begin with, then you only use the scores actually bowled in the event going forward.

Most tournaments wouldn't re-adjust averages...they'd just use the starting/entering average. If you go to USBC Open with a 215 average and in the first round bowl a 435 series...is your average going into the 2nd round a 215 or a 145?? This "Tour" is too short to use standard averaging. It's more like a tournament where you'd use the entering average for all games bowled. I decided to invent my own way, a hybrid if you will, because I didn't want anyone married to a high average but get center draws where they simply couldn't compete.

Take me for example...I am pretty sure I'm a better bowler than a 156 average...so keeping that would have been beneficial. However...I also know my average is 10-20 pins lower on synthetics...so using that average may also hurt me. By keeping it...but also adjusting it each week based on performance at varying centers...it creates a "best of both worlds" type of scenario.

Just because something is "new" doesn't mean it's wrong. I'm not trying to invent a square wheel. I'm trying to invent a rounder wheel.

[vdubtx]

Most tournaments wouldn't re-adjust averages...they'd just use the starting/entering average. If you go to USBC Open with a 215 average and in the first round bowl a 435 series...is your average going into the 2nd round a 215 or a 145?? This "Tour" is too short to use standard averaging. It's more like a tournament where you'd use the entering average for all games bowled. I decided to invent my own way, a hybrid if you will, because I didn't want anyone married to a high average but get center draws where they simply couldn't compete.

Take me for example...I am pretty sure I'm a better bowler than a 156 average...so keeping that would have been beneficial. However...I also know my average is 10-20 pins lower on synthetics...so using that average may also hurt me. By keeping it...but also adjusting it each week based on performance at varying centers...it creates a "best of both worlds" type of scenario.

Just because something is "new" doesn't mean it's wrong. I'm not trying to invent a square wheel. I'm trying to invent a rounder wheel.

Apples vs. Oranges.

USBC Open is conducted in a (mostly) 2 day window when all events are scored and averages only make difference in what classification you fall in. Using the entering average as part of the equation with actual scores bowled is pretty much bassackwards. My last $.02 on it as I don't want to be labeled the new Mike White.

[Mudpuppy]

Tourney is a bad example - that is using scratch scores so average doesn't really matter.

[Aslan]

Tourney is a bad example - that is using scratch scores so average doesn't really matter.

Well thats true.

My point stays the same though. If you enter a smaller tournament…your division depends on your book average. If it's a multi-round tournament…they don't re-calculate your average and put you in a different division because of how you rolled in the 1st round.

That was my point.

[J-Dilly]

My bad on missing the first round. I will definitely bowl next round

[Aslan]

My bad on missing the first round. I will definitely bowl next round

You better. Or everyone will hate you. <------peer pressure.

[J-Dilly]

Duly noted

[Mudpuppy]

My bad on missing the first round. I will definitely bowl next round

No big deal - life happens. This tourney is supposed to be as flexible as possible to help alleviate most of life's headaches, etc. But not 100%. But the beauty is that even though you missed round 1 you are still able to bowl round 2 and you are still in the running at this point.

[J-Dilly]

Where is the 2nd round posted? I want to make sure I get my scores done and submitted this month

[vdubtx]

Where is the 2nd round posted? I want to make sure I get my scores done and submitted this month

LINK (http://www.bowlingboards.com/threads/16510-1st-Annual-Bowlingboards-com-Virtual-Bowling-Tour-Participant-General-Information/page5)

Go to last post of Page 5.

[Hampe]

I will play around with it a bit. I think I can make it more readable. That was a first run quick go at it. Question: How did you figure averages for month 2?

That's why you guys should use google spreadsheet instead of excel screenshots :D

https://docs.google.com/

You can give Aslan write privileges using his Email address and you can both enter scores / edit the layout, then give everyone else just read access. I'm guessing google docs isn't blocked by Aslan's IT security.

[Mudpuppy]

That's why you guys should use google spreadsheet instead of excel screenshots :D

https://docs.google.com/

You can give Aslan write privileges using his Email address and you can both enter scores / edit the layout, then give everyone else just read access. I'm guessing google docs isn't blocked by Aslan's IT security.

I have used all kinds of stuff on google including google sketchup to design my basement when I finished it - very short learning curve if you understand basic design concepts at least for me - excellent program and free and I have used their calendars quite a bit. I will definitely give it a try. Thanks for the heads up. And why isn't Switzerland participating in the VBT? Still time to sign up Hampe. International presence would be awesome.

[Hampe]

I've thought about it, but there's a few reasons I never signed up. First of all, there are only 2 centers worth playing at here, and I play leagues in both of them so I would be at -10 advantage for every game. I also don't have a car, so going to centers a bit farther away (say, an hour away in Bern or Zurich) is also a bit out of the question. Another reason is I just got done playing two leagues (one finished last week and the other finishes next week), and my wife expects me to spend more time with her now that the season is over and the weather is getting warmer.....that's the same reason I didn't join the singles summer league that one of the centers here is doing for the first time this year. There's already a few tournaments around Switzerland I'll be doing this summer which I will catch hell from the wife for :D. That would only leave my practice time on Sundays, which I'd prefer to use to actually practice (spare pickups, different lines, different releases) so I can get better for next year. Another issue is which average to use since I'm not a USBC member, and one of the leagues I play in doesn't count towards my official Swiss average.

I'm also a bit like Iceman....I like to see my opponents face to face and talk a bit of trash :). Although, that's probably the least of the reasons not to do it.

I'll at least think about it some more....how long do I have to decide? Lol....it would be worth it just to see which centers in Switzerland Aslan would dig up :D

[Aslan]

I think next season might be more popular:

1) It will be the second go around so most of the kinks will have been worked out.
2) If it's a success, I could see prizes start to increase.
3) It'll start in the January/February/March timeframe and go the whole year...which will have summer overlap...but also a lot of winter bowling.

I can understand Hampe's concern because bowling centers in Switzerland may be much fewer and far between. And, many people over there don't have cars. And the summer is a busy time.

On the other hand, people don't have cars because there are ample trains and buses and trolleys...and since this is a once per month commitment...I don't buy the whole "my summer is packed with home projects". I mean....it takes like 4 hours (high estimate) to participate. 4 hours per month...a standard month has 250 hours where you're not sleeping nor working. Thats less than 1/60th of your free time each month.

There is no deadline for entry. I mean, I guess technically August 31st since September is the last month before the tournament. But at this point, my best estimate is it will take probably 9-10 points to get into the tournament...and 4 points max per month...means to have any realistic chance of making the championship round...you'd probably have to enter by no later than June 30th.

I'm also proposing one slight rule modifcation to "most improved average". Realistically, people entering AFTER June 30th shouldn't be eligible for that "back door" into the tournament. It would be too easy to enter the tournament in August...tank...then bowl great in September...and sneak into the championship round. Highest scratch game and most points above average I'd be willing to leave open to everyone regardless of their entry date...but most improved average should be limited to those who entered prior to June 30th.

Let me know if there's any objection from the committee or else I'll go add it to the rules/info page.

[Mike White]

I think next season might be more popular:

1) It will be the second go around so most of the kinks will have been worked out.
2) If it's a success, I could see prizes start to increase.
3) It'll start in the January/February/March timeframe and go the whole year...which will have summer overlap...but also a lot of winter bowling.

I can understand Hampe's concern because bowling centers in Switzerland may be much fewer and far between. And, many people over there don't have cars. And the summer is a busy time.

On the other hand, people don't have cars because there are ample trains and buses and trolleys...and since this is a once per month commitment...I don't buy the whole "my summer is packed with home projects". I mean....it takes like 4 hours (high estimate) to participate. 4 hours per month...a standard month has 250 hours where you're not sleeping nor working. Thats less than 1/60th of your free time each month.

There is no deadline for entry. I mean, I guess technically August 31st since September is the last month before the tournament. But at this point, my best estimate is it will take probably 9-10 points to get into the tournament...and 4 points max per month...means to have any realistic chance of making the championship round...you'd probably have to enter by no later than June 30th.

I'm also proposing one slight rule modifcation to "most improved average". Realistically, people entering AFTER June 30th shouldn't be eligible for that "back door" into the tournament. It would be too easy to enter the tournament in August...tank...then bowl great in September...and sneak into the championship round. Highest scratch game and most points above average I'd be willing to leave open to everyone regardless of their entry date...but most improved average should be limited to those who entered prior to June 30th.

Let me know if there's any objection from the committee or else I'll go add it to the rules/info page.

Are you making up new rules again?

In my opinion all of the "back doors" shouldn't have been built in the first place.

The guy who claims his average is 130, but is really 190, can shoot every game 1 to 5 pins over average, not raising any suspicions, not winning many points, keeping their average low, and get in via the back door.

Once into the post season, when wins matter, they bowl normal, and clean up.

The most improved can be abused the same way.

The most total pins does take effort, but they would probably have qualified for the "post season" anyways. So someone lower on that list will sneak in.

[Aslan]

Are you making up new rules again?
No. Fixing issues not previously accounted for. When I designed the "back doors" it was prior to the decision to let people join all the way up till the championship round.

After Hampe asked about the deadline to enter, I got to thinking that "most improved average" should have a minimum number of games (which is standard practice)...otherwise it could be significantly exploited.


In my opinion all of the "back doors" shouldn't have been built in the first place.

I'm sure Mudpuppy will take that into consideration for next season.

I don't see highest pin fall or most games over average being an issue since if you win those categories...98% of the time you'll be in the top half in points. And using the incoming average to keep players "grounded" should eliminate exploitation of the "most improved average" category.

The reasons for the categories existing are:
Most Improved Average: Gives credit to players that get significantly better as the tournament progresses even if they had an abysmal start or had bad luck in opponents each month.

Highest scratch pinfall: Rewards the best bowler...counterbalances the effect of handicap. If VDub has 2298 more pins knocked down than the nearest competitor, he should at least get to play a round in the championship tournament since he IS the best bowler and would have won nearly every point scratch.

Most Games bowled above incoming average: Like "most improved", it rewards a player that actually played very well but had tough luck draws. This one is least likely to be a factor since whomever wins it will likely have enough points won to already be in the tournament.

I figured these would be "MWhite Approved" since they are really designed to counter-balance handicap and "luck of the draw".

My guiding philosophy on rules is; "The rules should encourage luck (fun) yet also through other rules ensure skill plays it's part." The rules shouldn't cancel out luck completely...or it's not as fun, especiallly for newer bowlers. BUT....it can't be a "lottery ticket" where you just throw a dart at a dart board. The randomness (centers, opponents, etc...) and the handicap are desinged to add "luck" to the equation. But keeping entering averages and awarding certain fundamental type stats (like pin fall, games above average, etc...) counters luck to some degree.

Thats my take/opinion anyways.

[Mike White]

No. Fixing issues not previously accounted for. When I designed the "back doors" it was prior to the decision to let people join all the way up till the championship round.

After Hampe asked about the deadline to enter, I got to thinking that "most improved average" should have a minimum number of games (which is standard practice)...otherwise it could be significantly exploited.


I'm sure Mudpuppy will take that into consideration for next season.

I don't see highest pin fall or most games over average being an issue since if you win those categories...98% of the time you'll be in the top half in points. And using the incoming average to keep players "grounded" should eliminate exploitation of the "most improved average" category.

The reasons for the categories existing are:
Most Improved Average: Gives credit to players that get significantly better as the tournament progresses even if they had an abysmal start or had bad luck in opponents each month.

Highest scratch pinfall: Rewards the best bowler...counterbalances the effect of handicap. If VDub has 2298 more pins knocked down than the nearest competitor, he should at least get to play a round in the championship tournament since he IS the best bowler and would have won nearly every point scratch.

Most Games bowled above incoming average: Like "most improved", it rewards a player that actually played very well but had tough luck draws. This one is least likely to be a factor since whomever wins it will likely have enough points won to already be in the tournament.

I figured these would be "MWhite Approved" since they are really designed to counter-balance handicap and "luck of the draw".

My guiding philosophy on rules is; "The rules should encourage luck (fun) yet also through other rules ensure skill plays it's part." The rules shouldn't cancel out luck completely...or it's not as fun, especiallly for newer bowlers. BUT....it can't be a "lottery ticket" where you just throw a dart at a dart board. The randomness (centers, opponents, etc...) and the handicap are desinged to add "luck" to the equation. But keeping entering averages and awarding certain fundamental type stats (like pin fall, games above average, etc...) counters luck to some degree.

Thats my take/opinion anyways.

I guess you don't look at the highlighted parts of the quote.

"Highest scratch game and most points above average"

Are you back to including scratch game?

And what is "most points above average?"

If you're going to have the "back doors" they shouldn't be the secondary way of getting in.

Before considering wins, you should take the highest scratch total, most improved, and most games over average.

Then of those left, go by wins.

That way if someone making the post season would have qualified both by wins and the back door, their extra spot would go to the next wins rather than the next highest back door.

I don't like the back door idea, but if you're going to use it, do it in a way that makes sense.

[Aslan]

That way if someone making the post season would have qualified both by wins and the back door, their extra spot would go to the next wins rather than the next highest back door.


It's already that way. Lets use "if the championship round started today":

Current 2014 Tour Standings:

noeymc 4 points
Jeral999ok 3 points
Mudpuppy 3 points
Stormed1 3 points
tccstudent 3 points
vdubtx 3 points
Bunny 1 point
classygranny 1 point
MWhite 1 point
ZDawg 1 points
Aslan 0 points
JAnderson 0 points
J-Dilly 0 points
tr33frog 0 points

Current Wild Card Entry* Standings

Most Improved Average: Current Leader: Mudpuppy 190.63 to 200.50.
Highest Overall Scratch Pin Fall: Current Leader: Vdubtx; 641 pins
Most Games Above Average: Current Leader: noeymc; 3.

In this situation;
noeymc is in and gets a 1st round bye as Tour leader. He also has most games above average...but thats not relevant since he's already in.

VDub is seeded #2 (3pts, 641 pins) and faces the winner of the "Play In" match between MWhite/classygranny/Bunny/ZDawg who all have 1 point.
VDub also has most scratch pins, but since he is already in the tournament, it doesn't factor in.

Mudpuppy is seeded #3 (3pts, 633 pins) and faces #6 Stormed1 (3pts, 489 pins)
Mudpuppy has "most improved average" but doesn't need it because he's already in.

tccstudent is seeded #4 (3pts, 610 pins) and faces #5 Jeral999ok (3pts, 578 pins)

So, I think it's more in line with what you wanted....there aren't 3 spots reserved as "back doors"...a "back door" can only be utilized if you DON'T have the points to participate...BUT are the winner in one of those back door categories. It's actually very unllikely especially given the "play-in" game. But just for the sake of example...same standings above...but lets say I had most improved instead of Mudpuppy. In that scenario...I would be seeded #7 and there wouldn't be a Play-In game. A person making it in the "back door" would be seeded #7 and eliminate the Play-In game.

So if you want to GUARANTEE....100% that you make the Championship Tournament...finish in the Top FOUR in POINTS. You'll be in no matter what. If you finish 5th, 6th, or definitely 7th...or are relying on the play-in round...you're vulnerable to someone sneaking in the "back door" and bumping you out (although highly, highly unlikely for 5th and 6th place...and pretty unlikely at all). And Pin Fall IS important...as it will likely break ties and affect your seeding in the tournament.

And unlike March Madness....seeds SHUFFLE after each round. So the highest seed will always play the lowest seed each round. And the seeds LOCK upon entry. If you're a #5 seed...no matter how bad you beat your #4 seed opponent in round 1...you're still a #5 seed in Round 2.

Hopefully that makes sense.

And remember, during the tournament....winner is determined by points...but if it's a split (2-2), SCRATCH Pin Fall determines the winner. So a tie is going to favor the better bowler.

[Hampe]

I can understand Hampe's concern because bowling centers in Switzerland may be much fewer and far between. And, many people over there don't have cars. And the summer is a busy time.

On the other hand, people don't have cars because there are ample trains and buses and trolleysThis is true, which is the reason I can still bowl at all here without having a car. But Switzerland is also a small place with limited real estate available. All the bowling centers I know of in Zurich and Bern are outside of the city, and I have no clue how to get there by public transportation (if there even is any). If I were to participate, there is no way I'm schlepping my 3-ball and 2-ball bags across Switzerland in the train....I'd take the -10 pin penalty for playing at home.


...and since this is a once per month commitment...I don't buy the whole "my summer is packed with home projects". I mean....it takes like 4 hours (high estimate) to participate. 4 hours per month...a standard month has 250 hours where you're not sleeping nor working. Thats less than 1/60th of your free time each month.True, it is only once a month. But my wife will probably only tolerate a once per month (non-practice) bowling commitment over the summer, and those are already booked for tournaments where I can win actual money, instead of just a 20$ gift certificate (that wouldn't even cover half the shipping cost were I to use it) :).

[Mudpuppy]

Aslan I guarantee the landscape will change though - I won't be most improved average after month 2 or 3. I guarantee that. Someone will take that over - at least that has been the situation I have seen in the past. Typically 140-160 range is where someone can definitely get most improved - the sweet spot.

[vdubtx]

Aslan I guarantee the landscape will change though - I won't be most improved average after month 2 or 3. I guarantee that. Someone will take that over - at least that has been the situation I have seen in the past. Typically 140-160 range is where someone can definitely get most improved - the sweet spot.

True, a lot easier for folks in that average range to pick up just 1-2 marks per game and increase their scores by 15-20 pins.

[Aslan]

True, it is only once a month. But my wife will probably only tolerate a once per month (non-practice) bowling commitment over the summer,

Well, that leads to the discussion of needing a new wife...but I digress.

[Aslan]

Aslan I guarantee the landscape will change though - I won't be most improved average after month 2 or 3. I guarantee that. Someone will take that over - at least that has been the situation I have seen in the past. Typically 140-160 range is where someone can definitely get most improved - the sweet spot.

Agreed. Obviously you won't end up most improved...because you're a horrible bowler. : )

I was just going through that demonstration to show that "most likely"...in all honesty...nobody will likely make it in the "back doors" because they are likely to ahve the most points. And there aren't 3 "back doors" reserved for people....if you have most improved, highest pin fall, etc...; it really only matters if you don't have the points to make it in the championship round. Vdub will almost certainly have highest scratch pin fall...and most games above average will likely have a ton of points. Most improved is the only real "wild card" and honestly that person is also likely to have a lot of points.

I also wanted to point out that there is a "slight" chance that the person in 7th (or tied and eligible for the play-in round) IS vulnerable if someone sneaks in the "back door".

[Mudpuppy]

Agreed. Obviously you won't end up most improved...because you're a horrible bowler. : )

I was just going through that demonstration to show that "most likely"...in all honesty...nobody will likely make it in the "back doors" because they are likely to ahve the most points. And there aren't 3 "back doors" reserved for people....if you have most improved, highest pin fall, etc...; it really only matters if you don't have the points to make it in the championship round. Vdub will almost certainly have highest scratch pin fall...and most games above average will likely have a ton of points. Most improved is the only real "wild card" and honestly that person is also likely to have a lot of points.

I also wanted to point out that there is a "slight" chance that the person in 7th (or tied and eligible for the play-in round) IS vulnerable if someone sneaks in the "back door".

Just call me Spray Can. I'm definitely going to be in California later this year - I know you will bowl with me Aslan but can we start bets now on what excuses Mr. Perfect MWhite will have for not showing up?

[Aslan]

Just call me Spray Can. I'm definitely going to be in California later this year - I know you will bowl with me Aslan but can we start bets now on what excuses Mr. Perfect MWhite will have for not showing up?

Well...its tough to get MWhite to compete. He only will bowl on odd calender days between 1PM and 3PM. He'll need a 24-hour period before the match where nobody under the age of 22 has bowled on them. He must have 20 warm-up frames. The lanes need to be freshly oiled in between games. The lanes are subject to his physical inpsection. He'll need records on the oiling machine maintenance and re-certification. And he'll reserve the right not to participate should he (within the first 6 frames of warm-up) determine they have oiled the lanes in a reverse block.

[zdawg]

Just call me Spray Can. I'm definitely going to be in California later this year - I know you will bowl with me Aslan but can we start bets now on what excuses Mr. Perfect MWhite will have for not showing up?

Assuming I don't have to leave California (my stay has been extended to at least the month of June), can I get in on this? :cool:

[Mudpuppy]

Assuming I don't have to leave California (my stay has been extended to at least the month of June), can I get in on this? :cool:

For sure - I insist. Anyone and everyone. It's going to be October timeframe.

[zdawg]

For sure - I insist. Anyone and everyone. It's going to be October timeframe.

Sounds good!

[Aslan]

Second Month Scores:

vdubtx: 214 (219), 235 (240), 260 (265) = 724 (Hdcp)
Bunny: 161 (235), 148 (222), 146 (220) = 677 (Hdcp)

Mudpuppy: 204 (222), 175 (193), 198 (216) = 631 (Hdcp)
zdawg: 157 (226), 255 (324), 177 (246) = 796 (Hdcp)

Aslan: 211 (277), 165 (231), 181 (247) = 755 (Hdcp)
Jeral999ok: 189 (222), 178 (211), 194 (227) = 660 (Hdcp)

tccstudent: 203 (226), 181 (204), 195 (218) = 648 (Hdcp)
Stormed1: 176 (224), 159 (207), 173 (221) = 652 (Hdcp)

classygranny: 156 (200), 169 (213), 182 (226) = 639 (Hdcp)
noeymc: 245 (292), 182 (229), 225 (272) = 793 (Hdcp)

tr33frog: 213 (209), 213 (209), 213 (209) = 627 (Hdcp)
JAnderson: 188 (206), 188 (206), 188 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)

J-Dilly: 187 (206), 187 (206), 187 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
MWhite: 195 (222), 258 (285), 247 (274) = 781 (Hdcp)

[Mudpuppy]

Nice shooting Zdawg. I would have to had a monster series to beat those scores - especially the second game. Nice work too Aslan - you are definitely coming out of your shell. Where is the rest of the scores? Did no one else bowl?

[zdawg]

Nice shooting Zdawg. I would have to had a monster series to beat those scores - especially the second game.

Thank you sir, now if I can just keep the forward momentum going I should be good

[Mudpuppy]

Thank you sir, now if I can just keep the forward momentum going I should be good

From now on bowl your high games against someone else, lol

[zdawg]

From now on bowl your high games against someone else, lol

I'll try to keep that in mind :p

[Aslan]

Did no one else bowl?

Some others have bowled. But I only post the scores after having both parties to ensure nobody has the advantage of seeing a "target" they have to beat.

And before MWhite accuses me of cheating...it's also why I bowl very early in the month...so even I don't have a "target".

[Mudpuppy]

Some others have bowled. But I only post the scores after having both parties to ensure nobody has the advantage of seeing a "target" they have to beat.

And before MWhite accuses me of cheating...it's also why I bowl very early in the month...so even I don't have a "target".

10-4. The list just seemed short. But it makes sense now.

[Mike White]

Some others have bowled. But I only post the scores after having both parties to ensure nobody has the advantage of seeing a "target" they have to beat.

And before MWhite accuses me of cheating...it's also why I bowl very early in the month...so even I don't have a "target".

Why would that stop me from accusing you of cheating?

[Aslan]

Why would that stop me from accusing you of cheating?

touche

[Aslan]

Current 2014 Tour Standings:

After 2 months:
noeymc: 8 points
Stormed1: 6 points
VDub: 6 points
MWhite: 5 points
zdawg: 5 points
Aslan: 4 points
tccstudent: 4 points
Jeral999ok: 3 points
Mudpuppy: 3 points
Bunny: 2 points
classygranny: 1 point
Amerys: 0 points
JAnderson: 0 points
J-Dilly: 0 points
tr33frog: 0 points

Current Wild Card Entry* Standings

Most Improved Average: Current Leader: noeymc 161.00 to 184.11.
Highest Overall Scratch Pin Fall: Current Leader: Vdubtx; 1350 pins
Most Games Above Average: Current Leader: noeymc; 6.

[Aslan]

Third Month Scores:

Amyers: 156 (216), 177 (237), 201 (261) = 714 (Hdcp)
Zdawg: 176 (229), 192 (245), 183 (236) = 710 (Hdcp)

classygranny: 213 (257), 198 (242), 232 (276) = 775 (Hdcp)
MWhite: 173 (187), 224 (238), 239 (253) = 678 (Hdcp)

noeymc: 184 (206), 184 (206), 184 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
Bunny: 159 (228), 192 (261), 150 (219) = 708 (Hdcp)

Jeral999ok: 184 (205), 184 (205), 184 (205) = 615 (Hdcp)
Mudpuppy: 206 (226), 210 (230), 182 (202) = 658 (Hdcp)

tr33frog: 213 (209), 213 (209), 213 (209) = 627 (Hdcp)
Stormed1: 185 (232), 159 (206), 205 (252) = 690 (Hdcp)

JAnderson: 188 (206), 188 (206), 188 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
Aslan: 153 (207), 187 (241), 218 (272) = 720 (Hdcp)

tccstudent: 193 (206), 193 (206), 193 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
VDubtx: 267 (267), 194 (194), 215 (215) = 676 (Hdcp)

BYE: 193 (217), 193 (217), 193 (217) = 651 (Hdcp)
J-Dilly: 187 (206), 187 (206), 187 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)

noeymc, Jeral999ok, tr33frog, JAnderson, tccstudent, and J-Dilly did not submit valid scores for June in a timely fashion

[Bunny]

Third Month Scores:

Amyers: 156 (216), 177 (237), 201 (261) = 714 (Hdcp)
Zdawg: 176 (229), 192 (245), 183 (236) = 710 (Hdcp)

classygranny: 213 (257), 198 (242), 232 (276) = 775 (Hdcp)
MWhite: 173 (187), 224 (238), 239 (253) = 678 (Hdcp)

more scores as they come in...


Nice bowling Classy G!!

[classygranny]

Thanks Bunny!...felt good for a change (and I normally don't care for AMFs). Backed it up the following weekend with 568, 472, and 561 for the AZ Tourney, so it didn't last long.

[Aslan]

Current 2014 Tour Standings:

After 3 months:
Stormed1: 9 points
VDubtx: 9 points
Aslan: 8 points
noeymc: 8 points
Zdawg: 7 points
Bunny: 6 points
Mudpuppy: 6 points
classygranny: 5 points
MWhite: 5 points
tccstudent: 4 points
Jeral999ok: 3 points
Amerys: 2 points
JAnderson: 0 points
J-Dilly: 0 points
tr33frog: 0 points

Current Wild Card Entry* Standings

Most Improved Average: Current Leader: ZDAWG 141.00 to 166.75.
Highest Overall Scratch Pin Fall: Current Leader: Vdubtx; 2026 pins
Most Games Above Average: Current Leader: ZDawg; 8.

[Aslan]

Fourth Month Scores:

Amyers: 131 (180), 209 (258), 173 (222) = 660 (Hdcp)
Aslan: 180 (228), 168 (216), 178 (226) = 670 (Hdcp)

classygranny: 186 (210), 202 (226), 198 (222) = 658 (Hdcp)
Stormed1: 185 (228), 149 (192), 171 (204) = 624 (Hdcp)

MWHITE: 279 (293), 258 (272), 300 (314) = 879 (Hdcp)
tr33frog: 213 (209), 213 (209), 213 (209) = 627 (Hdcp)

Mudpuppy: 198 (207), 198 (207), 198 (207) = 621 (Hdcp)
VDubtx: 228 (228), 215 (215), 222 (212) = 655 (Hdcp)

JAnderson: 188 (206), 188 (206), 188 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
Bunny: 146 (210), 202 (266), 148 (212) = 688 (Hdcp)

ZDawg: 180 (227), 171 (218), 161 (208) = 653 (Hdcp)
tccstudent: 193 (206), 193 (206), 193 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)

J-Dilly: 187 (206), 187 (206), 187 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
noeymc: 184 (206), 184 (206), 184 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)

Jeral999ok: 184 (206), 184 (206), 184 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
BYE: 193 (224), 193 (224), 193 (224) = 672 (Hdcp)

Congrats to MWHITE on the VBT's first 300 game and 800 series!!!

[Amyers]

Third Month Scores:

Amyers: 131 (180), 209 (258), 173 (222) = 660 (Hdcp)
Aslan: 180 (228), 168 (216), 178 (226) = 670 (Hdcp)

more scores as they come in...

Well you lucked out on that one. I had intended for that first game to be practice. Developed the blister on my thumb towards the end of the second game and it finally got to where I couldn't use it on the 10th frame of the last game thus the two gutters. Not bad bowling on your part close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. Get you next time.

[Aslan]

Well you lucked out on that one. I had intended for that first game to be practice. Developed the blister on my thumb towards the end of the second game and it finally got to where I couldn't use it on the 10th frame of the last game thus the two gutters. Not bad bowling on your part close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. Get you next time.

Actually, my strategy saved me. I got assigned my OLD home center, but had the "option" (non-mandatory due to the center not being on my list) of bowling with Bunny at her selected center. Had I bowled at my OLD home center, a very heavy oil center...I'd have likely faired MUCH worse AND had a -10pt home center deduction...which would have cost me and you'd have gotten 3 or 4 points.

Just for review, the way that rule works is:

Our Oklahoma fellas are always paired and it's always mandatory because they have essentially the same centers selected.

Our California bowlers (4), it is always OPTIONAL to bowl with someone else at their selected center IF you bowl WITH them...and it is only MANDATORY if you are paired AND the center selected is on BOTH your lists.

Examples:
- MWhite used to have a center selected that was also on my list but removed it (swapped it out) because he didn't want to have bowling WITH me as mandatory...he wants to be more selective about WHEN he bowls. He still has the "option" as does his opponent on meeting up with him to bowl...but it's only optional.

- Last month, I drew Titan Bowl and Bunny drew Fountain Bowl. This meant our physical pairing (bowling together) was MANDATORY because...Fountain Bowl was on my list of selected centers. We did not have the option of both of us bowling at Titan Bowl because Titan Bowl wasn't on Bunny's list.

- THIS month, Bunny and I were paired again, but our physical pairing was OPTIONAL because I drew AMF Carter and she drew Forest Lanes. Forest Lanes is not on my list and AMF Carter is not on her's...thus we could have met at either place...or bowled at our assigned centers seperately. It was a "no-brainer" to try and bowl at Forest Lanes because AMF Carter is "officially" listed as both HER and MY home center (used to calculate our beginning averages) and thus we'd have each had a -10 pin handicap deduction had we bowled there.

The REASON (for newbies that didn't read the 13+ pages of debate) that his exists is the original format was designed as a PHYSICAL tournament. When we expanded it to be a "virtual" tournament, I tried to keep as much of the physical pairings as I could to promote users actually physically meeting each other. It also helps for score verification. Now, BECAUSE players subject to MANDATORY pairing are at a slight disadvantage...that disadvantage is offset by the slight ADVANTAGE of having a bit of flexibility from time to time...which I took advantage of this month.

Now, it's a bit MORE of an advantage NOW than it was originally because, against my vote, we went to a "pre-selected" center format rather than random center assignment after month #1. Again, I did not vote for that...but the tournament was at risk of failure under the random format...so I agreed. Unfortunately, that gave folks like MWhite, the ability to avoid MANDATORY pairings....while still benefitting from the OPTION of a pairing. It also allowed people (as Bunny wisely chose to do so as well as other participants) to NOT SELECT their home centers and thus avoid the -10-pin home center deduction.

So there ya go...all the backstory you never asked for!!!

[Aslan]

We're pretty much just waiting on VDub to submit his scores and then I'll finalize things. Everyone else either hasn't participated or has expressed that they aren't this month.

[Aslan]

Current 2014 Tour Standings:

After 4 months:

VDubtx: 12 points
Aslan: 11 points
ZDawg: 11 points
Bunny: 10 points
Stormed1: 10 points
MWhite: 9 points
classygranny: 8 points
noeymc: 8 points
Mudpuppy: 6 points
tccstudent: 4 points
Amerys: 3 points
Jeral999ok: 3 points
JAnderson: 0 points
J-Dilly: 0 points
tr33frog: 0 points

Current Wild Card Entry* Standings

Most Improved Average: Current Leader: MWHITE 192.00 to 220.80.
Highest Overall Scratch Pin Fall: Current Leader: MWhite; 2736 pins
Most Games Above Average: Current Leader: ZDawg; 11.

[Hampe]

Congrats Mike.....nice bowling man.

[Aslan]

Fifth Month Scores:

VDubtx: 222 (212), 222 (212), 222 (212) = 636 (Hdcp)
MWhite: 220 (210), 220 (210), 220 (210) = 630 (Hdcp)

tr33frog: 213 (209), 213 (209), 213 (209) = 639 (Hdcp)
ZDawg: 173 (220), 157 (204), 130 (177) = 601 (Hdcp)

Amyers: 167 (204), 167 (204), 167 (204) = 612 (Hdcp)
classygranny: 184 (206), 184 (206), 184 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)

Mudpuppy: 198 (207), 198 (207), 198 (207) = 621 (Hdcp)
Aslan: 195 (241), 167 (213), 179 (225) = 679 (Hdcp)

Stormed1: 170 (204), 170 (204), 170 (204) = 612 (Hdcp)
Bunny: 157 (218), 172 (233), 162 (223) = 674 (Hdcp)

J-Dilly: 187 (206), 187 (206), 187 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
tccstudent: 193 (206), 193 (206), 193 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)

Jeral999ok: 184 (206), 184 (206), 184 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
noeymc: 184 (206), 184 (206), 184 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)

JAnderson: 188 (206), 188 (206), 188 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
BYE: 187 (216), 187 (216), 187 (216) = 648 (Hdcp)

[Aslan]

Current 2014 Tour Standings:

After 5 months:

Aslan: 15 points*
Bunny: 14 points*
VDubtx: 12 points*
ZDawg: 12 points*
Stormed1: 10 points
MWhite: 9 points
noeymc: 8 points
classygranny: 8 points
Mudpuppy: 6 points
tccstudent: 4 points
Jeral999ok: 3 points (e)
Amerys: 3 points (e)
tr33frog: 0 points (e)
JAnderson: 0 points (e)
J-Dilly: 0 points (e)

* denotes clinched a tournament berth.
(e) denotes eliminated from the finals tournament.

Current Wild Card Entry Standings

Most Improved Average: Current Leader: MWHITE 192.00 to 220.00.
Highest Overall Scratch Pin Fall: Current Leader: MWhite; 3396 pins.
Most Games Above Average: Current Leader: ZDawg; 13, Bunny 13. (ZDawg currently leads pin fall tiebreaker by 216 pins)

[Aslan]

Last month proved to be a lackluster month in terms of participation and that hurt a lot of the current participants.

- MWhite had a shot to clinch a playoff berth and move into 3rd place but had phone/technical difficulties that made his scores unverifiable.

- noeymc got off to a torrid start in months 1 and 2 and then took three months off. He once was the top dog in numerous categories and now is barely holding on to a playoff berth. And, should he return this month, he faces a tough draw in MWhite.

- classygranny was riding 2 straight months of solid performance that got her back in the hunt, then she took the month off and is now barely hanging on to a playoff berth.

- Mudpuppy was up and down in the first three months, then took the last two off and now needs at least 2 points just to have a shot at making the tournament.

- And Amyers, a late entry into the Tour…had a slow start the last couple months…but STILL could have made the dance…and HE chose to sit last month out as well and is now mathematically eliminated from a tournament entry.

At this point, 4 of the 8 tournament positions are filled.

Aslan and Bunny had a strong month and leapfrogged the absent/injured vdubtx. ZDawg had a rough month but still managed to get a point and mathematically is no longer in danger of a play-in match in October. Stormed1 is back alive and kicking after his surgery and has probably made it into October barring any unexpected wild card activity.

Remember, guys like Amyers and Mudpuppy 'could' still make it in with a strong enough performance to gave them most improved average or in Mudpuppy's case "most total pin fall." But while that is really a long shot for Amyers…at least it gives him something to play for. Mudpuppy could still make it in just by getting 2-4 points…most improved average and highest total pin fall are also 'possible'; but highly unlikely.

[Aslan]

Final Month Scores:

VDubtx: 222 (212), 222 (212), 222 (212) = 636 (Hdcp)
ZDawg: 165 (204), 165 (204), 165 (204) = 612 (Hdcp)

noeymc: 184 (206), 184 (206), 184 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
MWhite: 204 (204), 197 (197), 214 (214) = 615 (Hdcp)

Amyers: 167 (204), 167 (204), 167 (204) = 612 (Hdcp)
Bunny: 153 (190), 153 (190), 153 (190) = 570 (Hdcp)

J-Dilly: 187 (206), 187 (206), 187 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
Mudpuppy: 227 (246), 248 (267), 191 (210) = 723 (Hdcp)

JAnderson: 188 (206), 188 (206), 188 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
Stormed1: 170 (204), 170 (204), 170 (204) = 612 (Hdcp)

tccstudent: 193 (206), 193 (206), 193 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
classygranny: 184 (206), 184 (206), 184 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)

Jeral999ok: 184 (206), 184 (206), 184 (206) = 618 (Hdcp)
tr33frog: 213 (209), 213 (209), 213 (209) = 627 (Hdcp)

Aslan: 150 (194), 159 (203), 165 (209) = 606 (Hdcp)
BYE: 186 (207), 186 (207), 186 (207) = 621 (Hdcp)

[Aslan]

Final 2014 Virtual Bowling Tour Standings:

Aslan: 16 points
Bunny: 14 points
VDubtx: 12 points
ZDawg: 12 points
MWhite: 10 points
Mudpuppy: 10 points
Stormed1: 10 points
noeymc: 8 points
classygranny: 8 points
tccstudent: 4 points
Jeral999ok: 3 points
Amerys: 3 points
tr33frog: 0 points
JAnderson: 0 points
J-Dilly: 0 points

Current Wild Card Entry Standings

Most Improved Average: MWhite 192.00 to 218.00.
Highest Overall Scratch Pin Fall: VDubtx; 4023 pins.
Most Games Above Average: Current Leader: Aslan; 13, ZDawg; 13, Bunny 13. (Aslan wins tiebreaker by 24 pins over ZDawg and 276 pins over Bunny)

As I predicted, the "back-door" entry into the tournament ended up not being relevant as all leaders already have a spot in the tournament based on where they finished.

The tournament schedule will be posted in the General Information Thread.

For more detailed look at the final stats:

1) Aslan: Participated all 6 months. Average improved from 156 to 168; 13 games above his starting average; 3069 pins of scratch pinfall.
2) Bunny: Participated in 5 of 6 months. Average improved from 145 to 153; 13 games above her starting average; 2793 pins of scratch pinfall.
3) VDubtx: Participated in 4 of 6 months. Average improved from 215 to 222; 5 games above his starting average; 4023 pins of scratch pinfall.
4) ZDawg: Participated in 5 of 6 months. Average improved from 141 to 165; 13 games above his starting average; 3045 pins of scratch pinfall.
5) MWhite: Participated all 6 months. Average improved from 192 to 218; 12 games above his starting average; 4011 pins of scratch pinfall.
6) Mudpuppy: Participated in 4 of 6 months. Average improved from 190 to 201; 9 games above his starting average; 3662 pins of scratch pinfall.
7) Stormed1: Participated in 4 of 6 months. Starting/Ending average = 170; 6 games above his starting average; 3071 pins of scratch pinfall.
8) noeymc: Participated in 2 of 6 months. Average improved from 161 to 184; 6 games above his starting average; 3382 pins of scratch pinfall.
8) classygranny: Participated in 4 of 6 months. Average improved from 176 to 184; 7 games above her starting average; 3338 pins of scratch pinfall.

10) tccstudent: Participated in 2 of 6 months. Average improved from 185 to 193; 4 games above his starting average; 3505 pins of scratch pinfall.
11) Jeral999ok: Participated in 2 of 6 months. Average improved from 174 to 184; 5 games above his starting average; 3347 pins of scratch pinfall.
12) Amyers: Participated in 2 of 6 months. Average improved from 153 to 167; 5 games above his starting average; 2049 pins of scratch pinfall.
13) tr33frog: Did Not Participate. Starting/Ending average = 213; 0 games above his starting average; 3834 pins of scratch pinfall.
14) JAnderson: Participated in 1 of 6 months. Average fell from 193 to 188; 1 game above his starting average; 3372 pins of scratch pinfall.
15) J-Dilly: Did Not Participate. Starting/Ending average = 187; 0 games above his starting average; 3366 pins of scratch pinfall.

HONOR ROLL

High Games Scratch
MWhite 300, MWhite 279, VDubtx 267.

High Scratch Series
MWhite 837, VDubtx 709, MWhite 700.

High Handicap Game
ZDawg 324, MWhite 314, MWhite 293.

High Handicap Series
MWhite 879, ZDawg 796, noeymc 793.

Most Games Above Starting Average (>/= 3 months of participation)
Aslan 13, ZDawg 13, Bunny 13

Most Improved Average (>/= 3 months of participation)
MWhite +26.43, ZDawg +24.14, Aslan +12.43

Highest Scratch Pinfall (>/= 3 months of participation)
VDubtx 4023, MWhite 4011, Mudpuppy 3662

[Aslan]

Round 1 Scores:

#1 Seed - Aslan: 125 (171), 132 (178), 185 (231) = 580 (Hdcp)
#8 Seed - classygranny/noeymc: 0, 0, 0 = 0

#4 Seed - ZDawg: 0, 0, 0 = 0
#5 Seed - MWhite: 186 (187), 183 (184), 97 (98) = 469 (Hdcp)

#7 Seed - Stormed1: 140 (184), 148 (192), 213 (257) = 633 (Hdcp)
#2 Seed - Bunny: 0, 0, 0 = 0

#6 Seed - Mudpuppy: 0, 0, 0 = 0
#3 Seed - VDubtx: 255 (245), 234 (224), 199 (189) = 658 (Hdcp)

Round 2:

#1 Seed Aslan vs. #5 Seed MWhite

#3 Seed VDubtx vs. #7 Seed Stormed1

[Aslan]

Round 2 Scores:

#1 Seed - Aslan: 174 (210), 164 (200), 151 (187) = 597 (Hdcp)
#5 Seed - MWhite: 164 (165), 226 (227), 246 (247) = 639 (Hdcp)

#7 Seed - Stormed1: 144 (188), 177 (221), 152 (196) = 605 (Hdcp)
#3 Seed - VDubtx: 252 (242), 225 (215), 259 (249) = 706 (Hdcp)

Championship Round: December !!!

#3 Seed VDubtx vs. #5 Seed MWhite

[Aslan]

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!!

COME ONE, COME ALL!!

THE RESULTS ARE IN!!!

#3 Seed VDUBTX: 211-226-230 = 667
#5 Seed MWHITE: 267 (268) - 246 (247) - 227 (228) = 740 (743)

MWHITE has not only won the imaginary trophy for "most whining about the rules" but has also WON THE TOURNAMENT by taking 3 of 4 points from VDUBTX!!

Congrats to everyone…especially those that actually participated…to those that followed the tournament…to the site for supporting it; it was kind've a cool thing. It wasn't easy, participation was hit or miss, and we had a few hiccups along the way. But I think it was a marginal success.

And the cool thing is…anyone that put money on MWhite (pro shop owner) never buying something retail from bowling boards.com…well, he now has a gift certificate to use towards a purchase!!!

Congrats MWhite. You not only won, but you were one of the top participants, AND the only bowler to throw a perfect game during this season!!!

The torch now passes…whether we do this again…whether there will be a "virtual tour 2015"…or biennial 2016…and whatever that format looks like…is now in the hands of Mudpuppy!!! He has volunteered AND been assigned the duties as new Tour Commish!!! I wish him the best of luck…he'll need it!

MWhite…I'll send a PM to the site to let them know a winner has been crowned!!!

[fortheloveofbowling]

What does the champion receive? I'm guessing a autographed glamour shot photo of Aslan.:):cool:

[noeymc]

25 dollar gift card

[Amyers]

Congrats Mwhite

[Hampe]

Nice one Mike!

[Mudpuppy]

Congratulations MWhite

[Blacksox1]

Congratulations MWhite

What are you going to buy with your new found fortune, MWhite?

[Mike White]

What are you going to buy with your new found fortune, MWhite?

Usually when a customer wants something that my distributor doesn't have, I buy it from bowling ball.com. and just pass the cost to the customer.

So next time that occurs, I'll have the opportunity to turn it into $$$.