Timmyb's scores

[Timmyb]

Yep. Same here for me last night. Lanes dried up quick and just couldn't figure it out.

Not really sure they dried up. Seemed like there was a decent shot when I hit my mark. I just couldn't find my a** with both hands. A LOT of tugs.

[Timmyb]

Crap night, thanks to dislocating my pinky at work. No sub available, so I went anyway.

186 185 181 = 552. Was limited all night. Couldn't get much turn on the ball, and since they were super oily to start, that didn't go well. When they did finally dry up a bit, I couldn't get any speed on the ball. Some days you should just stay home. 216 average.

[Timmyb]

Weirdest. Night. Ever......

192/226/203 = 621. 10 guys across two lanes. 42 10-pin leaves. 9 of them were mine. Of the 42, probably 3/4 of them on the right lane. No one was untouched in this. I tried every dirty trick I knew, but they just kept coming. Has to be someothing just a little off with the pin setter. I get it if it was just me, but not when everyone is in it. The manager was dead quiet on this one, and he's not the silent type....

[boatman37]

lol. Last night I left (3) 2-7 splits and 3 4-7-10 splits. Not sure I have left that many all year. I left 7 splits total last night. Usually only leave 1 or 2. Ended up using my spare ball in game 3 just to stay on the left side of the head pin

[Timmyb]

Officially mired in mediocrity.

204/164/226 = 594. Back on my favorite pair, 3 & 4. What started with the SureLock not being able to get enough bite to finish (4 10-pins in the 1st game) ended up balling down to the Nano before the 3rd game started. I'm at a loss as to why I can't seem to adjust out of the box, and it's starting to get aggravating. Longest string on the night was 4. Unacceptable. Average stays 215. If this keeps up, not for long.....

[mc_runner]

I hear ya. I've been on a slow steady drop for the last couple of months, just behind on transition and feeling lost. Keep at it, all we can do!

[Timmyb]

Some signs of life at the ol' Arcade.

238/193/215 = 646

First time I've been close to average in a number of weeks. Only two opens on the night, both splits that I definitely earned. Still too many damn 10 pins (6 total), but made them all. I think the SureLock might be starting to show it's age. The Phaze III really looks nice...

Average stays 215.

[boatman37]

Nice shooting!

[Timmyb]

Better night.

193/256/223 = 672. First game would've been inline with the other two, but got a little grabby with the ball in 8 and 9, and blew both shots through the nose. Only two opens on the night. Better news was this was the first time in 5 or 6 weeks I took all three points from my opponent. Team took 24 of 30 as well. Average stays 215.

[Aslan]

nice shooting!!

[Timmyb]

Tough night.

181/221/202 = 604. Lanes were horrid from the get go. We watched them oil, and based on what we could see, there was no oil outside of 2nd arrow, and it showed. If you played inside. no finish, and tons of ten pins. Creep the ball out to the 8 board or further, and you were going through the nose. Can't believe this was on purpose, because the guy who does the lane prep also bowled on our pair, and he had a worse night. Nights like this makes me glad I'm fairly competent at moving around, otherwise this night would've been a meltdown. My 604 was the high series on the pair. Average drops 1 to 214.

[Timmyb]

City Tourney, day one (team).

193/207/220 = 620. Flat out as tough a condition as I've ever seen at this tournament. 2 boards inside, through the nose. 2 boards out, and ytou weren't touching the nose. Decent carry if you hit, though. Did not have to move my feet once through all three games. 180 guys bowling, and I saw maybe 8-10 600's. Not one 7. Hope singles/doubles goes better tomorrow.

[Timmyb]

City Tourney, day 2 (doubles/singles)

Doubles--159/226/256 = 641. Started with the wrong ball. Couldn't get the SureLock to break. Actually balled down the the Nano, and it worked. Think the Lock was burning off before it got to the break point.

Singles--185/170/193 = 548. Just couldn't get it done. If I wasn't getting splits, it was single pin leaves. That, and being on the end of 9 games in 2 days, pretty sure I was just out of gas.

However, with three weeks to go, my partner and I are in 1st place in doubles division 2 by over 70 pins with three weeks to go. I'll keep my fingers crossed, but if the play today is any indication, we may be in a good place. I'll hold my breath....

[Timmyb]

Coulda been worse. Coulda been better.

216/248/195 = 657. Tons of mistakes tonight, but strung enough together to make a decent night out of it. This 10-pin bug I've had (7 tonight) is getting aggrivating. Only missed one. Also saw my first 8-10 split in I-can't-remember-when. Average back to 215.

[Timmyb]

Decent night, for what might have been the SureLock's last night.

212/226/248 = 686. Never missed the pocket, but carry was tough. 7 10-pins, whiffed two of them (only opens). Almost all of my spares were either 7 or 10 pins. Nice to have the SureLock go out with a bang. Phaze III should be coming next week (PSO can't keep them in stock, and had to order). Average stays 215.

[boatman37]

nice night. my teammate says he left about 12 10 pins last night by his count and he only converted 1 or 2. he is usually decent with them but struggled bad last night.

[Timmyb]

Here she comes!

https://i.postimg.cc/q7RPPhqM/phaze.jpg

[Timmyb]

Tuesday league, and first night with the Phaze. There will be a learning curve (no pun intended).

147/220/182 = 549. Figuring out what this thing wants was not as easy as I thought it would be. When they tell you this ball is angular, take them at their word. I've never had a ball that could take as abrupt a left turn as this thing. If I wasn't going through the nose, I was going through the nose. Finished that game with 4, to give you an idea how bad the rest of the game was. Much better the second game when I knew what to expect. Third game, everyone was off. Lanes magically burned up about the second frame, and everyone's shot went to hell. At least I know what to do with this, but I'll say this, I think my ball-down equipment may get a bit more work. Average falls back to 214.

[Timmyb]

Little late posting Tuesday's score's

193/214/215 = 622. Learning more about the Phaze. Like how to leave 4-pins. This ball smokes the pocket, if you hit high flush, and throws s**t everywhere if you hit it light. Hit it a little high, you're looking at a 4-pin (or worse). Hit it square, pocket 7 or 8-10 splits. Need a little fine tuning to my release to get rid of that. Still learning my progression on moves as well. With the Lock or the IQ, I'd usually drift to the left 4-5 boards. Tuesday was more like 12, but the lanes melted in the 3rd game to add to that. Average stays 214.

[Aslan]

Seeing a LOT of Phase IIIs on the lanes lately.

[kingtut]

I have seen an increase as well. My league went from one to about 8 players now roll them on a regular basis.

[Timmyb]

There will be no scores to report from some time. We are shut down for a minimum of 2 weeks.

[boatman37]

There will be no scores to report from some time. We are shut down for a minimum of 2 weeks.

same here

[Timmyb]

So I got to go bowling today with my grandson.

178/269/235 = 681. The operator at South Shore Lanes put out a house shot for me when I got there so I could play with the Phaze III (only had 9 games before the shutdown). He put out a 44 foot sweetheart of a shot. Played around the first game just to see where the ball wanted to be, and then let 'er rip. Held a strong 4-5 board sweet spot all the way through until about 4th frame of the third game. I pushed back over right 2 boards, and was right back on it. That ball touches the pocket, and it's pretty much over. By the time I was done, the kid behind the counter was telling me he's going to talk to his PSO and look into buying one. The most fun of the day, though? We had the bumpers up for the kid, and I was seeing how close I could get to touching the bumper while trying to make a 10 pin. Made three of the four, and that one just barely touched the bumper and missed the 10 by a 1/4".

I will be one sore puppy tomorrow....

[bubba809]

Glad to see bowler scores posted here again and great (re)bowling Timmy!!

[Timmyb]

Weekly Challenge/sport shot tourney at South Shore. First week joining in, and what do I get? Cheetah pattern.

Qualifier--183/150/204 = 537 (22 pins per game handicap). Qualified me for 6th, which put me in the roll off, even though I had high game and high scratch series. The Phaze III was utterly useless during the qualifier. Used my ancient IQ Nano. Second game was hard to figure out where to go, but muddled through. Hey, got me in, right?

1st game brackets. Matched up against a guy with the same handicap. I made less mistakes. 165 game.

2nd game brackets. Yeah, handicap. Frankly, he deserved it. I absolutely ran out of gas. By then I was bowling with the Phaze, and I couldn't get enough out of that to get finish. Beat him scratch, but lost by 40+ pins after handicap.

All in all, had fun. Never bowled on this shot in my life, and now I know why they say it's a bastard. Next week I'm told it will be a 48-50 foot pattern. Think the Phaze and myself will be showing up for this one!

[Timmyb]

Weekly Wednesday sport/PBA shot tournament. I was introduced to Shark this week. If I never meet this bastard again, it'll be too soon.

168/172/128 = 468. Two things. First, I don't own a ball suited to this pattern. Even knocking down the SureLock to 1500 yielded nearly no reaction. Second, it's a pretty good possibility that those factors were amplified by the fact that I'm not turning the ball as well as I used to. I started just throwing straight from the corner, which worked okay, but started to get iffy and of second game. Made the decision to move inside. Bad move. 6 pocket splits in the last game. At that point I knew I was done, and my bicep was killing me, so I just rode it out and went home. Live and learn. Next week they're doing a Nationals team shot. They said around 44 feet, and flat. Having never been to Nationals, anyone got advice?

[Timmyb]

Weekly Wednesday sport/PBA shot tournament. Tonight was the 34' Del Ballard pattern. If this pattern is in any way indicative of Del's personality, he was not a nice man. (Met him, he is).

160/135/161 = 456. This pattern is brutal. 34' of heavy oil, and then desert. This short pattern, you could get too far right, but that wasn't easy. And damn, if you missed left, goodbye. I didn't figure out what the pattern really wanted until well into the 3rd game, and that was to throw straight over 1st arrow, and to really make sure you roll right up the back of the ball. Wish I had come to that realization sooner. My spare shooting last night was atrocious as well. All in all not a great night, but definitely learned a lot. They've promised a longer pattern next week. Hopefully not Shark again.

[Timmyb]

Out of all the couple of weeks I've joined this PBA shot tournament, this week was the most frustrating.

170/179/186 = 535. Dick Weber pattern. I had the perfect ball, and set up on the perfect line. Unfortunately, the operator (me) could not make the first meet the second. If I hit my mark, it was strike city, save one ring 10. Past that, I was scattering shots all over God's green earth. The fact that I bowled better on the Cheetah pattern is a good indicator. At least that day I was consistent. Bowling like this wouldn't have worked on a house shot, let alone a PBA pattern. Absolute waste of a night. Only thing I learned is after 46 years of bowling, I still ain't there.

[Timmyb]

Last tournament week. This week, 42' Scorpion.

195/13/201 = 588. Shot played a lot like the Dick Weber pattern the week before. Difference this week was my control. Still threw some dumb shots, but for the most part stayed where I was supposed to. I was the only guy on my pair playing outside down and in, so I burned in my line nicely. Qualified 3rd. Got moved over 2 pairs for the step ladder, and found out in a hurry that no one on that pair had played outside. Started the game with three opens, all spare whiffs. Got the wheels put back on to hit a 173, but by then the other guy ran away with a 244. 4th place on the night. Learned a lot during these little tournaments, which I hope carries over to league this year.

[Timmyb]

First week of league at a new house, Classic Oak Creek.

176/247/230 = 653. This is one of the few houses that when the switch was made to synthetic, the changed the approaches to synthetic as well. They are little tacky in the first place, and couple that with the fact that it was pouring all day, and 60° inside the place when we showed up, had me stumbling around trying to figure out my footwork. Three splits killed the first game. Once settled in, it was like being on remote control, save one missed 10-pin in the second game. Really like this house, insomuch as it looks like the shot holds up well all night. Looks like we have 18 out of a possible 20 teams. Everyone kept their distance. Big selling point is everything seems much less stressed then the house we were at. Looking forward to how this league plays out. I'll take a 217 average to start!

[Timmyb]

Weird Tuesday night.

203/254/162 = 619. Still having footwork issues. at least 15° warmer inside than last week, and volleyball leagues were on, so they had the sides doors open. Approaches were like glue. Did well second game, and then the wheels fell off. Started the 3rd game 10, 10, 10, and 7 pin leaves, and whiffed three out of the four. Ended up with 4 opens in the 3rd game. It wasn't just me, everyone on the team had a bad game. Maybe we all got the bowling corona....Average 212.

[Timmyb]

Tuesday night league. Meh.....

206/170/212 = 588. Did okay, but could not figure out the transition in the second game. Had to throw a 4-bagger to finish just to get to 170, due to 4 splits in a row. They had the side doors open, and it was warm that night. Can't wait until volleyball leagues are over, and they can keep those damn doors closed. Average at 206.

This is all tempered by the fact that my brother was unable to bowl this week, because he tested positive for Covid. He's not sure where he contracted it. None of the rest of the team is showing any symptoms, nor have we heard of anyone in the league that has come down with it. He didn't come down with symptoms until 5 days after bowling last. At this point, there's almost no way to know where this crap is coming from. He's doing fine, symptoms are starting to fade, but one of his kids got bit, too. She won't talk to him right now. Teenagers.....

[Timmyb]

Tuesdays scores. An awakening....

279/236/214 = 729. 2 single pin leaves to start the first game, then went off the sheet. Started the 2nd game with 3, just to prove to myself I can throw 12 in a row. Last game got bit a little by the transition, which came a lot later than I thought it would. Still had 2 opens one the night (pocket 7-10, and a 1-2-4-10 washout). Made all of my 10 pins for once! Average back to 215.

[Timmyb]

Tuesday league. Not good.

161/194/181 = 536. Felt like I was back in the PBA shot tournament I was playing during the summer. Really didn't feel like I was throwing too bad, but my scores say otherwise. Looked really good in practice, and that's it. blame it all on operator error. Average drops to 208. Try again next week....

[boatman37]

Tuesday league. Not good.

161/194/181 = 536. Felt like I was back in the PBA shot tournament I was playing during the summer. Really didn't feel like I was throwing too bad, but my scores say otherwise. Looked really good in practice, and that's it. blame it all on operator error. Average drops to 208. Try again next week....

Our lanes were weird last night. Being a lefty it wasn't too bad for me but 2 of my teammates were confused and said there was way more oil than usual. I do know my Igniter wouldn't hook at all up the 10 board where I had been throwing the Uppercut. Usually the 10 board works good with the Igniter. Talked to the PSO (whose team we bowled against) and he agreed the lanes broke down oddly. He commented that he was the only one on his team to roll a 200 on his team that game and their team average was 213 so they have a good team. Their team always jokes with each other so the one guy threw a bad shot and the owner (who is on that team too) told him he sucked so he responded 'I'd do better if you did a better job of oiling'. They were all joking but funny that it came up there too...lol

[Timmyb]

Our lanes were weird last night. Being a lefty it wasn't too bad for me but 2 of my teammates were confused and said there was way more oil than usual. I do know my Igniter wouldn't hook at all up the 10 board where I had been throwing the Uppercut. Usually the 10 board works good with the Igniter. Talked to the PSO (whose team we bowled against) and he agreed the lanes broke down oddly. He commented that he was the only one on his team to roll a 200 on his team that game and their team average was 213 so they have a good team. Their team always jokes with each other so the one guy threw a bad shot and the owner (who is on that team too) told him he sucked so he responded 'I'd do better if you did a better job of oiling'. They were all joking but funny that it came up there too...lol

Everyone on our pair had issues except for the 2 2-handers on the other team. The oil felt like it just kept moving down and out. You'd finally set up and drill the pocket 2 frames in a row, then throw the same shot and it wouldn't come in. Just seemed like I never caught up with the shot.

[boatman37]

We didn't have any 2 handers on our pair last night but one of our guys is a no thumber and really cranks it across the lane. Looks like a 2 hander. Then the other team has a few crankers. 4 of the 5 on that team are all righties and very high revvers. The owner is a lefty but not that high of revs. Didn't notice any urethane on our pair either

[Timmyb]

No scores for this week, and possibly next. Girlfriend having surgery, and I'm not risking getting Covid before she goes in on Friday. See you in a few weeks!

[Timmyb]

First week back after 2 weeks off. Not great.

195/188/191 = 574. Could not get decent carry. I had 3 opens all night, 2 10's and a big four. That split was my only ball out of the pocket all night. Game three I threw 8 9-counts, 6 of them were 10-pins. The whole team had carry issues all night. Not being able to make the right moves might be the most frustrating thing as a bowler, and tonight just wasn't going to come for me. Average down to 205.

[Timmyb]

I suck, with a ton of help from one very inexperienced employee.

162/194/200 = 556. Knew this night was off to a strange start when I walked in 15 minutes prior to practice, and they had just started oiling the lanes. The kid was apparently on the phone with the owner trying to figure out how to use the machine (regular guy was a no-show, which is a long, sordid story for another day....). He managed to get 1-4 done, and then all hell broke loose. After opening up the top on 5/6 (not used), and messing around with the pads, he moved to 7/8, my pair. I'm not sure what he did, but literally the oiliest lane I have ever bowled on. Best part? 8 was desert dry! I had to stand 13-15 boards different between the two. Two washouts killed my first game. Look, I get it. You have to make adjustments bowling. I pride myself on this ability. But. there are simply some conditions that don't fit in your head. The owner was in by the end of the night, and made it pretty clear this wasn't going to happen again. Average ticks down to 202. I need to get this place figured out....

[Aslan]

These days, hard to bowl when the lanes aren't oiled properly.

[Timmyb]

These days, hard to bowl when the lanes aren't oiled properly.

It's just a ****ty handicap league. I actually like bowling in it, due to the high concentration of bowlers who throw a straight, plastic ball. It creates some unusual transitions, and really makes you use your head to pay attention to what's going on. I have not seen a week where the transition was the same. That being said, if the lane is unusable right from the start, it's no fun. This was like bowling on a 50 ft. plus pattern on one lane, and a 35 on the other. It's not a skill league.

[Timmyb]

MAUSBC Senior/non-senior tournament.

Me--192/238/200 = 630
Partner--148/136/193 = 477

Tournament was held at our old house, South Milwaukee Arcade. Walked in expecting a typical 40-42" tournament shot, but that's not what we got. My guess was 32-35'. 10-pin leaves were the order of the day for just about everyone bowling, including yours truly. My partner is normally a 180 average bowler, but just wasn't himself. Couldn't really see anything in his approach, but the ball seemed to go a different way every shot. Good experience, but highly doubt we'll see anything from it.

[Timmyb]

Tuesday league

237/229/207 = 673. Pretty decent night. Went 16 clean from the start, and then, bam, pocket 7-10. I seem to get at least one of those every week lately. This one was no where near deserved. High flush hit that just didn't move right. Got tired and sloppy the last game.

[Aslan]

...and then, bam, pocket 7-10. I seem to get at least one of those every week lately.

I'm kinda jealous...at this point I'd kinda prefer a pocket 7-10 a night to 5-8 pocket hits that leave 10-pins. Then, I'd have a legitimate excuse for the open frames. :o :mad:

[Timmyb]

I'm kinda jealous...at this point I'd kinda prefer a pocket 7-10 a night to 5-8 pocket hits that leave 10-pins. Then, I'd have a legitimate excuse for the open frames. :o :mad:

Oh, I had to pick up 4 of those last night, plus a stone 9 and an 8 pin that had no right to be standing. I was kinda happy that both of my opens were splits. No single pin or non-split opens. My only shot out of the pocket was a 3-6-7-10 leave that I damn near made....

[Blacksox1]

Nice series TimmyB.

[Aslan]

Oh, I had to pick up 4 of those last night, plus a stone 9 and an 8 pin that had no right to be standing. I was kinda happy that both of my opens were splits. No single pin or non-split opens. My only shot out of the pocket was a 3-6-7-10 leave that I damn near made....

Thats how I'm convinced that so much of my problem with single-pin conversion is mental. When I throw at a 7-10...I RARELY miss the 10-pin. Same ball...same line...RARELY miss. But, if it's a 10-pin all by itself with a chance for a spare...I'm 2 out of 3 or 50/50.

[boatman37]

Thats how I'm convinced that so much of my problem with single-pin conversion is mental. When I throw at a 7-10...I RARELY miss the 10-pin. Same ball...same line...RARELY miss. But, if it's a 10-pin all by itself with a chance for a spare...I'm 2 out of 3 or 50/50.

Same here. If I leave a 7 I miss it almost 1/2 the time. If I leave a 4-7 I get the 7 almost every time but leave the 4

[J Anderson]

Same here. If I leave a 7 I miss it almost 1/2 the time. If I leave a 4-7 I get the 7 almost every time but leave the 4

Do you use the same target and starting position to shoot the 4-7 as you do for the 7? If you shoot the 7 cross alley with a straight ball, part of the ball should pass through where the 4 pin would be more than half the time that you make it. Moving your start a bit left should increase your miss room for the 4-7.

[boatman37]

Do you use the same target and starting position to shoot the 4-7 as you do for the 7? If you shoot the 7 cross alley with a straight ball, part of the ball should pass through where the 4 pin would be more than half the time that you make it. Moving your start a bit left should increase your miss room for the 4-7.

No. I use a plastic T-Zone and stand on about 32 and target 15 for the 7 pin and for the 4-7 I stand 32 and target 17. I'm not that accurate though so those are where I 'target' but not necessarily where I hit...lol. But yeah I stand in the same spot but move my target right about 2 boards for the 4-7 (lefty here).
But I tend to tug alot of my 7's because of the mental thoughts about the gutter where with the 4-7 I don't think of it cause I know I'm not gonna be as close to the gutter (or shouldn't be)

[Timmyb]

No. I use a plastic T-Zone and stand on about 32 and target 15 for the 7 pin and for the 4-7 I stand 32 and target 17. I'm not that accurate though so those are where I 'target' but not necessarily where I hit...lol. But yeah I stand in the same spot but move my target right about 2 boards for the 4-7 (lefty here).
But I tend to tug alot of my 7's because of the mental thoughts about the gutter where with the 4-7 I don't think of it cause I know I'm not gonna be as close to the gutter (or shouldn't be)

I never use my spare ball for 7 pins. I just hook the Phaze into it.

[boatman37]

I never use my spare ball for 7 pins. I just hook the Phaze into it.

I used to do that but got yelled at so much on here for it and was missing quite a bit that I gave in and bought one...lol

[J Anderson]

I never use my spare ball for 7 pins. I just hook the Phaze into it.

Are you a lefty like Boatman37?

[J Anderson]

No. I use a plastic T-Zone and stand on about 32 and target 15 for the 7 pin and for the 4-7 I stand 32 and target 17. I'm not that accurate though so those are where I 'target' but not necessarily where I hit...lol. But yeah I stand in the same spot but move my target right about 2 boards for the 4-7 (lefty here).
But I tend to tug alot of my 7's because of the mental thoughts about the gutter where with the 4-7 I don't think of it cause I know I'm not gonna be as close to the gutter (or shouldn't be)

Maybe you should stand 32 and target 17 for the seven pin and move your target to 18 for the 4-7. Some of our really good youth bowlers are using 4th arrow for their corner pins, which might help with not worrying about the gutter

[boatman37]

Maybe you should stand 32 and target 17 for the seven pin and move your target to 18 for the 4-7. Some of our really good youth bowlers are using 4th arrow for their corner pins, which might help with not worrying about the gutter

Yeah I really need to work on this. Thankfully I usually only leave a few 7's a night so don't get alot of practice and with everything going on now it's hard to get practice in.

I see the pros targeting just inside the 4th arrow but I'm already far enough right that my right foot is almost up against the ball return. Only option would be a 3 step approach and I think that would mess me up even more.

One odd thing about me (well not the only thing...lol) I line up using my left toe. I have kind of transferred those over so 32 is ballpark. I line my left toe up on 25 which should put my inside foot about 30ish. I have always used my left toe so hard to break that...lol

[Timmyb]

Are you a lefty like Boatman37?

Nope. Didn't know what hand he bowled with.

[boatman37]

Nope. Didn't know what hand he bowled with.

oops. guess that would have been good info...lol. I use my plastic ball for 4's, 6's, 7's and 10's. Everything else is my strike ball. I struggle with 10's too. For the 10 I stand on about 18 and throw over 17. Don't have an exact number but figure my ball sets down on about 10

[Timmyb]

Tuesdays league scores.

174/203/212 = 589. Some pretty un-inspired bowling. Never settled into any kind of rhythm. Longest string of strikes was three. Tugged at least a half-dozen shots, and paid dearly on most of them with splits. Put on a flurry of 6 out of 7 strikes to save the last game. I really need to put my finger on what makes this house tick. I'm not used to the whole "peoplethrowingplasticstraightdownthemiddleofthelan e" dynamic in this league, and it's really starting to grate on me. Starting to question why we left the scratch league. Average ticks down to 204. I really gotta get my head out of my a**.

[Timmyb]

Tuesday league scores.


256/202/169 = 627. Whoopy.

[boatman37]

Tuesday league scores.


256/202/169 = 627. Whoopy.

lol. Beat me by 1. I had 174, 202, 250 (626). Very similar except my first was my worst

[Timmyb]

lol. Beat me by 1. I had 174, 202, 250 (626). Very similar except my first was my worst

At this point, I'm just fed up with it. Either I'm way behind the transition, or in the case of last night, stumbling around. My speed control has also been awful.

[boatman37]

At this point, I'm just fed up with it. Either I'm way behind the transition, or in the case of last night, stumbling around. My speed control has also been awful.

i had been the opposite the last few weeks. Last week started with a 253 and ended with a 152 (592). Finally a night where i got better as the night went on. But we had a bye and i was willing to try different things. We still needed to be within 50 of our team average to get the points but its a little easier when you don't have an opponent

[Timmyb]

Some signs of life tonight.

235/257/203 = 695. Two opens on the night. The weekly pocket 7-10, and a 3-10 (my only shot not in the pocket). 2nd game was clean. Managed to keep up with the transition this week. Carry was tough the last game. Finally felt like I had control tonight, which is far better then where I've been. Average at 207.

[Timmyb]

I. Hate. Bowling.....

169/226/200 = 595. Started the first game with a ring 10 (missed), and then a pocket 7-10. We've now learned that 7/8 are the "weird" pair at this house. They don't behave like any of the other pairs. Unfortunately, took me the first game to remind myself of this. 3 boards to the right, and the first game would likely have been better. They say a sure sign of progress is when all your mistakes are new ones. No progress tonight....

Back to 206.

[Timmyb]

More of nothing.

214/172/185 = 571. Another spectacular evening started with seeing the teenager oiling the lanes again when we got in. This time, he never checked the setting on the machine, which was last used by one of the owners to put out a skill shot for the Monday league. 48' of heavy oil was the condition for the night. Four opens on the night (all of the 2-pin split variety). Just couldn't get a finish with the equipment I have. However, for the first time in weeks, NO POCKET 7-10 SPLIT! Whatever.....

[Timmyb]

Decent night.

190/213/284 = 687. First game was a struggle to get any cadence going. Footwork was terrible. 2 splits did in that game. better 2nd, but whiffed a 2 pin spare. 3rd game was magic until the 11th ball. Right spot, right steps, even threw it over the spot I wanted to. Just forget to turn the ball, and went right through the 3 pin for a washout. Someday.....

Average back up to 207.

[boatman37]

687 decent? Geeez. Tough crowd....lol. I'd say that's quite a bit better than decent...lol

[Timmyb]

687 decent? Geeez. Tough crowd....lol. I'd say that's quite a bit better than decent...lol

Had I gotten my head out of my arse in the first game, I'd have had a small 7. Looking at my scores for the first half, and I'm all over the map. The way this year is going, I'm calling anything over 630 decent. Bring on 2021!

[Blacksox1]

nice game 284 and series 687 Timmyb

[Timmyb]

Another decent night, with a little more consistency.

204/216/267 = 687. Rough start to first game, missing a 2-8 and a 2-4 in a row, but managed to pile a on a couple of strikes. Second game was better, but did fail miserably on a 10-pin, which kind of tanked that game. Third game was a beauty. 9-spare start, then ran 8 in a row (clean game). Other than struggling in the first game to get the ball to finish well, everything felt good tonight. Would definitely like to keep this going. Average back up to 208.

[Blacksox1]

687 again. Nice! 229 average for the last 6 games :)

[Timmyb]

Seems I may have stumbled on to something. Like maybe thinking I should be 5 boards left, instead of where I've been the last 2 weeks.....

[Timmyb]

Not the best night, not the worst.

183/214/225 = 622. Remember me mentioning recently that I hadn't had a pocket 7-10 in a few weeks? Jinx! Started 1st game with a 2-4-8-10, then came the first pocket 7-10. Muddled through the rest of that game, whiffed a 10 pin in the 8th, and then boom, another 7-10 in the 10th. 2nd game got me one more for a total of 3 on the night. None of them really looked like they hit flat, but they must have. Last game was clean. Average still 208.

[boomer]

I really wonder about the physics of a pocket 7-10. They suck!

[Timmyb]

Tuesday scores

186/216/237 = 639. Weird first game. All strikes on the left lane. All hell on the right 9mostly operator error, along with two weak-*** 10 pins. Got back on it in the second and third games. Never moved from my spot all night, but no plastic ball bowlers, and I was the only person near my line. Gotta get out of this 1st game issue I've been on. Hey, no pocket 7-10's tonight. Average still 208.

[boatman37]

Yeah I had a very nice pocket 7-10 last night. Left a few 7's also. But last week I did better each game then last night got worse each game. Rolled a 671 but my last game was only 180

[Timmyb]

Yeah I had a very nice pocket 7-10 last night. Left a few 7's also. But last week I did better each game then last night got worse each game. Rolled a 671 but my last game was only 180

I've had a few nights like that, but typically I do better as the night goes on. Just trying right now to fix that first game. I've had a number of small 6's that could've been much better this year.....

[boatman37]

I've had a few nights like that, but typically I do better as the night goes on. Just trying right now to fix that first game. I've had a number of small 6's that could've been much better this year.....

Typically my 2nd game is my worst. My first is usually my best then I struggle with transition in game 2 then game 3 figure it out. Last night was 266, 225, 180. No adjustments in game 1 or early game 2. Later in game 2 started adjusting. I was in the pocket all night but started leaving corner pins

[Timmyb]

Another Tuesday, another ho-hum night.

223/191/219 = 633. Never really got anything going last night. One turkey the whole night. Missed 2 7-pins (WTF?), left an 8-10, and the only ball out of the pocket left a 3-6-9-10, which I left the 10. Generally uninspired bowling. On top of that, got our arses handed to us by the oldest team in the league, who bowled way above and beyond their averages. "Lou Ann" beat me the second game with a 236. Her average? 132. Yeah, that kinda night. Average stuck at 208.

[boatman37]

Another Tuesday, another ho-hum night.

223/191/219 = 633. Never really got anything going last night. One turkey the whole night. Missed 2 7-pins (WTF?), left an 8-10, and the only ball out of the pocket left a 3-6-9-10, which I left the 10. Generally uninspired bowling. On top of that, got our arses handed to us by the oldest team in the league, who bowled way above and beyond their averages. "Lou Ann" beat me the second game with a 236. Her average? 132. Yeah, that kinda night. Average stuck at 208.

lol. Yep, we been tunning up against those teams every week. Last week we bowled about 100 over our average every game and still lost by over 100. The team we bowled last night had high scratch game and high scratch series of the night (although we won the first game by 14 and lost the 2nd by 11. But we lost the 3rd by about 170)

And a 633 isn't really a ho-hum night...lol

[J Anderson]

And a 633 isn't really a ho-hum night...lol

Depends on your perspective. If you are used to averaging 190-200, 633 is a good series. If you used to average 215 or so, 633 is sort of mundane.

[Timmyb]

And a 633 isn't really a ho-hum night...lol

Let's remember the "perspective" thing. I had 687 two weeks in a row a few weeks back. In my head, that's where I should be. In reality, not always the case. I push myself more than anyone to be better. When I'm not, that's where "mundane" kicks in.

[boatman37]

Let's remember the "perspective" thing. I had 687 two weeks in a row a few weeks back. In my head, that's where I should be. In reality, not always the case. I push myself more than anyone to be better. When I'm not, that's where "mundane" kicks in.

Yeah I push myself too. I rolled a 587 (average is 193) so I was right there but I was frustrated with it. I have been averaging about 207 the past 4-6 weeks so a 587 wasn't good. I'm getting to the point where I want a 620 every week but realistically I'm happy with a 600. I'm thrilled with a 633

[Aslan]

I've seen some of the happiest bowlers roll a 120. I saw a bowler nearly LOSE HER MIND when she rolled a 159. Granted, they never bowled above a 99 game before and had bowled for years...so imagine the excitement!

And that was the downside (for me) to bowling in those type of leagues. Not only is it nearly impossible to get a feel for ball reaction when people are just throwing plastic house balls all over the place...but its also hard to explain to a person that would frame their scoresheet if they ever got 3 games over 120 why I'm ready to throw my bowling equipment in the dumpster and quit for good if I bowl 3 games under 180.

Perspective.

[boomer]

I ran brackets for the Cal State Women's Tournament . . . back in the day. :) On the day that the pros had their squad and bought a TON of brackets, there was this lady in her 90s, bent way over with osteoporosis, just a sweetie. All her friends put her in brackets, a TON of them. Well, she bowled SLOW and her ball speed MIGHT have cracked 3mph (LOL) but she bowled in the 130s (that's +30 or so) and she ROCKED the brackets. She was end of the day (obviously scheduled that way wisely) and all of the WPBA ladies were around her lane cheering her on as she absolutely cleaned up the brackets! She had so much fun that day. :)

Perspective. :)

[Timmyb]

Little late, but Tuesday's scores.

194/225/233 = 652. First game was a nightmare. Missed two 10-pins, left a 2-4-10, but got enough strikes to at least get into the 190's. Last two games better, but still had an open each game (another missed 10 and a 3-6-9-10). Shows you how strikes can moderately overcome poor spare shooting on some nights. Still, could've been a better night without all the dumb mistakes. Average clicks up one to 209.

[Timmyb]

Late again on Tuesday's scores.

205/190/207 = 602. This is one week I'm not going to complain too loudly about my series. We bowled a team that was comprised of 70+ year old women (a blast to bowl with!), all of whom threw plastic balls. Total handicap? 331 pins. We gave up 210 going into each game. That's not even an extra bowler, that's a GOOD extra bowler, but we won all 7. 602 was serviceable, considering the wreckage all that plastic did to the shot. My saving grace was that I left 7 10-pins, and made them all. Only opens were light-hit splits. It was definitely a "learning" kind of evening, that even brought out the rarely-used IQ Nano, which had surprising results, and may see more service soon. Average back to 208.

[Timmyb]

A better Tuesday.

223/225/226 = 674. One split (4-10) in the first game was the only open on the night. Think I left quite a bit out there, as I switched back to the old IQ, and the transition played a bit different. Still left 5 10-pins (4 of them could be heard across the street...). Have not missed a 10-pin in well over two weeks now. Gonna stick with this ball for as long as it plays well, just wish I had tried this sooner. Average back to 209.

[Blacksox1]

Good shooting. Nice even scoring.:cool:

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's scores.

193/197/202 = 592. Yep, another not-so-proud night. This one was ALL operator error. Never got comfortable in my own shoes. Felt wobbly, likely due to 2.5 hours of snow removal (we got 14" of the white death), but that's no excuse for some of the dumb crap I was doing. 4 opens--3 splits, one chopped 6-10. Longest string on the night was three. I'm honestly not sure I hit the same spot twice. No excuses, I flat out sucked last night. Average clicks back to 208.

[Aslan]

Good shooting. Nice even scoring.:cool:

Exactly. May not have been super high...but nice and consistent.

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's scores.

216/237/236 = 689. Never let it be said Timmy doesn't pay attention. Noticing that polished solid seemed to be better at this house than pearl, I pulled out the SureLock and put a polish back on it. If it wants solid, give it a beast. Good results. 2 opens (chopped a 3-10, and missed my first 10-pin in over 4 weeks). I was a little disturbed by the abnormally high amount of 10-pins I left (10). Usually it's only 4 or 5 a night. The ball seemed to be able to find the pocket from just about anywhere. Plus, I got a little entertainment as well. One of the guys on the other team was chiding me for using a spare ball to pick up ten pins, so I grabbed the SureLock and shut him up. Open mouth, insert foot. Average 209.

[boatman37]

Tuesday's scores.

216/237/236 = 689. Never let it be said Timmy doesn't pay attention. Noticing that polished solid seemed to be better at this house than pearl, I pulled out the SureLock and put a polish back on it. If it wants solid, give it a beast. Good results. 2 opens (chopped a 3-10, and missed my first 10-pin in over 4 weeks). I was a little disturbed by the abnormally high amount of 10-pins I left (10). Usually it's only 4 or 5 a night. The ball seemed to be able to find the pocket from just about anywhere. Plus, I got a little entertainment as well. One of the guys on the other team was chiding me for using a spare ball to pick up ten pins, so I grabbed the SureLock and shut him up. Open mouth, insert foot. Average 209.

Nice set!

[Blacksox1]

Nice series Tuesday Timmyb

[Timmyb]

Boy Blunder strikes again.....

235/156/226 = 617. They really gotta get rid of this kid they have working Tuesdays. Seems like every other week, he has "issues" with the machine, and ends up mangling 2 or 3 pairs. Yes, I made the right adjustments, but the second game was uncontrollable. I'm a firm believer in being able to make adjustments, but when it's just a plain house shot, you shouldn't be 8-10 boards from one lane to the next. Call it what you want, but that's just crap. This isn't a challenge league. It's 10% THB's, and a bunch of regular Joes and Betties, who just want to have a good time. If I had wanted to stay in an unfriendly scratch league, I would've stayed where I was.

[SRB57]

Boy Blunder strikes again.....

235/156/226 = 617. They really gotta get rid of this kid they have working Tuesdays. Seems like every other week, he has "issues" with the machine, and ends up mangling 2 or 3 pairs. Yes, I made the right adjustments, but the second game was uncontrollable. I'm a firm believer in being able to make adjustments, but when it's just a plain house shot, you shouldn't be 8-10 boards from one lane to the next. Call it what you want, but that's just crap. This isn't a challenge league. It's 10% THB's, and a bunch of regular Joes and Betties, who just want to have a good time. If I had wanted to stay in an unfriendly scratch league, I would've stayed where I was.

I wouldn't think once set up that the oiling machine is not that hard to run from lane to lane. Some machines you don't even have to move it from lane to lane it does it on it's own. Still not that bad of a night considering the middle game you had. I am like you it's just for fun and I don't get upset about it. Steve

[Timmyb]

I wouldn't think once set up that the oiling machine is not that hard to run from lane to lane. Some machines you don't even have to move it from lane to lane it does it on it's own. Still not that bad of a night considering the middle game you had. I am like you it's just for fun and I don't get upset about it. Steve

We always have fun, it's just frustrating when this bozo keeps making the same mistakes. Near the beginning of the league, they had another guy doing this, but he quit, and the owner never replaced him. From what I gather, it's pretty much the only job he thinks the kid is capable of, and he's not. Should have seen the night he didn't check the switch, and put out like a 45'+ pattern....

[boatman37]

Talked to a guy at our league the other night and asked him about this tournament he bowled in. He said they set the machine up to only oil like every other board? Not sure I buy that story. Anyone ever heard of that?

[SRB57]

We always have fun, it's just frustrating when this bozo keeps making the same mistakes. Near the beginning of the league, they had another guy doing this, but he quit, and the owner never replaced him. From what I gather, it's pretty much the only job he thinks the kid is capable of, and he's not. Should have seen the night he didn't check the switch, and put out like a 45'+ pattern....

I hear ya. I went into my typical night this past Tuesday and got a surprise they were oiled a lot!! heavier than they have been all year with not so crisp backends. I had my nuclear cell, Rubicon RC2 and Hustle PBR with a lot of lane shine so to say the least I was ill prepared for that. I am not a hi rev guy anymore and my speed is not the best so could not get the ball to go through the pins good. Came in Thursday (loaded for bear this time I got my Halo Vision with surface (Which I did not need) and bowled real well till the last game and missed the transition but will take 711 any time out. I got to remember to not move 1-2 boards when that happens I need to move a whole zone. Glad you are having fun like me. Steve

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's scores.

205/225/244 - 674. First game got marred by two opens (whiffed a 7 and a 10 pin), otherwise clean the rest of the night. Stayed in my zone all night, and never put myself in a bad place. Still getting too many 10-pin leaves, but let's face it, I'm old and losing power. This is what you get when you try to keep dumb mistakes to a minimum. Average @ 210.

[J Anderson]

Tuesday's scores.

205/225/244 - 674. First game got marred by two opens (whiffed a 7 and a 10 pin), otherwise clean the rest of the night. Stayed in my zone all night, and never put myself in a bad place. Still getting too many 10-pin leaves, but let's face it, I'm old and losing power. This is what you get when you try to keep dumb mistakes to a minimum. Average @ 210.

When you say you “ stayed in my zone “ do you mean you were able to play the part of the lane that’s most comfortable for you, or do you mean that you kept your mind on the right things at the right time, like when pro athletes say “ I was in the zone tonight.”

[SRB57]

Tuesday's scores.

205/225/244 - 674. First game got marred by two opens (whiffed a 7 and a 10 pin), otherwise clean the rest of the night. Stayed in my zone all night, and never put myself in a bad place. Still getting too many 10-pin leaves, but let's face it, I'm old and losing power. This is what you get when you try to keep dumb mistakes to a minimum. Average @ 210.

I am in the same boat with the power thing but I did send a messenger for the ten last night so I still got something going. You still had a good night and will always take it. I am ok with losing a little power and am thankful I can still bowl (After 2 hip replacements). Keep bowling good. Steve

[Timmyb]

When you say you “ stayed in my zone “ do you mean you were able to play the part of the lane that’s most comfortable for you, or do you mean that you kept your mind on the right things at the right time, like when pro athletes say “ I was in the zone tonight.”

The second. I can't really say I was "in the zone", but I payed attention to where the lanes told me to go. I have a tendency to over-read transition at times.

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's scores

181/244/234 = 659. Game 1 was a hot mess. 3 opens included 2 missed 10-pins in a row. I had been spotless on those for some time. Still had one open in both other games, too. 5 on the night is not acceptable. Average stays 210.

Bowling in the state tourney Saturday (singles/doubles). If it's done, it will be with a possibly jammed/dislocated/broken little tow on my right foot, which I did last night. Too late to change dates.

[Timmyb]

Wisconsin state bowling tournament (singles/doubles)

Doubles--205/183/223 = 611
Singles--234/210/236 = 680
1291 total

Let's begin with this caveat--Bowlero Corporation is a joke. S/D tournament was held at Bowlero in Wauwatosa. You know, where the pros bowl? They just sunk a couple million in this place a few years ago. Too bad none of it was in the equipment. We started bowling on 45-46. Lanes kept breaking down (squad we followed warned us about this). They finally gave up and moved us to the other side of the planet, to lanes 9-10. Can you guess which game that happened? You would think in a house with 72 lanes that they would have more than ONE mechanic working a tournament. The lanes, the subways, and pretty much the entire place was filthy. Several of us had pieces of sticky cork come out on our balls, which we assume is the grip surface on the wheels below. Our portion was supposed to start at 1:30. They started everyone at 2:15. The 6 guys bowling on out lanes finally finished bowling 6 games at about 5:45. The tournament directors were awesome, and apologized profusely for all the bullsh*t we went through. One of them told me this may be the last time the state tourney come here, unless they clean their act up. Thank God we only have 2 Bowlero centers here. The other house is just as bad, I'm told.

That being said, this was my best performance at state, ever. I will chalk part of it up to bowling with a damaged right foot, which I think forced me to pay extra attention to my footwork. My foot is sore as hell right now, but survived. If anyone wants a really gross picture of some really gruesome bruising, I'd be glad to share.

[J Anderson]

Congrats on bowling well in spite of the lousy conditions. No thanks on the pics, I’m about to have lunch😉

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's scores.

215/188/207 = 610. First rule of thumb--don't get your second Covid shot the day before and expect to be worth a s**t the next night. Okay, that's a lesser known rule, but might be good advice for those of you headed that direction. Low-to-no energy will lead to some less than average scores. Thought I had something going in game 3 with 4 in a row to start, but that was followed by 3 opens in a row, one of them being the dreaded pocket 7-10. Learned my lesson. Call the sub.....average stays 210.

[SRB57]

Tuesday's scores.

215/188/207 = 610. First rule of thumb--don't get your second Covid shot the day before and expect to be worth a s**t the next night. Okay, that's a lesser known rule, but might be good advice for those of you headed that direction. Low-to-no energy will lead to some less than average scores. Thought I had something going in game 3 with 4 in a row to start, but that was followed by 3 opens in a row, one of them being the dreaded pocket 7-10. Learned my lesson. Call the sub.....average stays 210.

It could have been a lot worse and your average did not change so that's a plus. I had about the same night. Could not get the ball to go through the pins good. Changed balls in the second game and did better but my thumb began to swell (It was hot for this time of year here). Took some tape out and got it better then the lanes changed a lot as I had to make a 5 and 3 move but was never comfortable. Shot 201-233-190 624 with 2 opens both splits. The kid I was bowling against last night spanked me good (no thumb power player) and I don't have the power I once had. Steve

[J Anderson]

Tuesday's scores.

215/188/207 = 610. First rule of thumb--don't get your second Covid shot the day before and expect to be worth a s**t the next night. Okay, that's a lesser known rule, but might be good advice for those of you headed that direction. Low-to-no energy will lead to some less than average scores. Thought I had something going in game 3 with 4 in a row to start, but that was followed by 3 opens in a row, one of them being the dreaded pocket 7-10. Learned my lesson. Call the sub.....average stays 210.

Definitely lesser known. It does seem like people have more of a reaction to the second shot, if they have any reaction at all. I got the J&J one which is only one shot. Fairly strong reaction that night (you know I don’t feel well when I skip a meal) but was fine in time for league the next afternoon.

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's scores. Damn decent night.

214/214/248 = 676. The switch I made a few weeks back (never mentioned this) is showing promise. I'm trying to get a little more backswing in an effort to use less energy in my swing. It's required a good amount of timing change, and this week kind of came together. Very few mistakes, and only one open (3-4-6-7-10, of which I picked out the 3-6-7. Yeah, don't ask...) on the entire night. The only thing that I'm paying for today is the timing thing has irritated a few muscles in my lower right leg, and I woke up with some awesome cramps last night. Regardless, I felt more in control last night than I have in some time. Average stays 210.

[Blacksox1]

Nicely done!

[SRB57]

Nice shooting timmyb. Sometimes it's the little things in your game that make a big difference. Steve

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's score. Wanna get off the roller coaster.....

235/212/171 = 618. Had one open in the first two games (10-pin), and 4 in the 3rd. Try as I ight to stay with the transition, we were bowling the grannies, and they destroyed the right side of the lane. No finish at all in the last game (3 of the 4 opens were 2-pin splits). Just couldn't wrap my head around where to put the ball, and paid for it. What could've been a high 6 ended up under average, which stays at 210. Two more weeks left. Can't wait.

[Timmyb]

Surprise bowling event. Brother-in-law called, and needed a replacement for one of his state teams.

213/263/205 = 681. Started game 1 with 2 straight splits, and then settled down. Game two was a tear, but still had one open, followed by 8 in a row. Game 3 was tough. Shot went away, and I couldn't keep up with the transition. Had to bang 4 in a row to get the 205. But, I dropped $60 in brackets, and walked away with $170. That was a nice topper to a pretty decent day. One of the guys on my BIL's team popped a 300, too. Pretty good day for 3 teams. We'll see if it gets us anywhere.

[Blacksox1]

Nice series Timmyb

[Timmyb]

Tuesday score. Last week. may as well keep the roller coaster going....

198/280/205 = 683. Had serious issues at the start of the 1st game hanging on to the ball, even blowing in the hole. Tried a small piece of white tape, but nearly hit myself in the face with that. Muscled through with 2 opens. 2nd game the only miss was a light hit that damn near took down the 7-pin, but alas, she stood. all 10 after that were drilled. Last game I just plain started making dumb mistakes, and it cost me a 7. Sweeper week next week, so nothing matters after this. The house near me is doing the PBS tour thing again this summer, so I may jump in that to keep warm. Finish the season at 211, 3 off from last year.

[Timmyb]

Sweeper week. Meh.....

195/215/257 = 667. Same raft of dumb mistakes in games one and 2, just less in 2. Footwork was not great all night, and that led to most of the mistakes. Not going to win any money in a sweeper 34 pins over your average.

Will be hitting the PBA tournament down the street here and there, plus I'll be bowling in the City singles/doubles tourney on May 9th. After that, it's pretty much trap shooting most of the summer. Have a great time off, folks!

[SRB57]

Nice Timmyb.

[Timmyb]

Milwaukee Area USBC Tournament. Not a good place to be.

Doubles--224/198/194 = 616

Singles--177/166/199 = 542

First game clean. Thought we were on to something, but that was the last clean game I saw. The pattern they had out had a very distinct "cliff" just outside of the 4th board. If you hit it, the ball was gone. Unfortunately, my partner found this out a LOT. So did I, but only hit the grey board once. After the first game, I just could not keep up with the transition, which was warp speed. Some days you're the windshield.....

[Timmyb]

We're back! Kinda....

221/202/177 = 600

Tonight was not about establishing anything but whether my shoulder and elbow are going to be able to withstand another season. First couple of balls I threw had me wondering if we were going to be done right off, but initial pain subsided. That being said, I didn't have a hell of a lot of strength tonight. Highest ball speed I saw was 14.8. Considering I was 15.5+ last year, not good. Still managed to make a few good shots, until the 10th frame of the last game, when an a** hole that should have known better literally stepped up on the next lane to throw, while I was actually putting my foot on the dots. It shouldn't have, but it rattled me, and I missed my spare. The guy works at the alley! I told him in no uncertain terms that if that ever happened again, his boss would know. He's already not well liked in the house due to his behavior in several other leagues. Why the owner even has him working is beyond me.

[Timmyb]

Better.

233/247/184=664. One 3-10 split was the only blemish on game one. Game two was clean. Had a decent game rolling in 3, but pocket 7-10 #1 of the year reared it's ugly head in the 9th. !0th frame tugged it and left the 3-6-10, and then whiffed the 3. Pretty much hit my line all night, save those 2 3-pin+ leaves. Average 210.

[Aslan]

Nice shooting. Just a rough break in the 9th and 10th of Game 3.

[Timmyb]

Nice shooting. Just a rough break in the 9th and 10th of Game 3.

Thank you.

[Timmyb]

Much better night.

233/223/241=697. Never really felt like I was off at any time during the night. Still had an open in each game (3-6-7-10, whiffed 10-pin, and another pocket 7-10). Didn't feel too bad after watching a friend on the next pair get 4 7-10's. Elbow is not holding up well, and hurt like hell most of the night. Will see the doc about that on Monday. Early season average of 217.

[SRB57]

Nice shooting!! Very good start to the season. Steve

[Timmyb]

First real stumble of the year.

211/167/215=593. Never really found a groove. 2 opens in the 1st, 3 in the 2nd, all splits, all very much deserved. Last game was at least clean. On top of that, the other team handed us our asses. When you start out down 143 pins in handicap, and bowl under your average, you'll have that. Average 212.

[Timmyb]

Little better, but much room for improvement.

186/214/254=654. First game did not give me much hope for the night. 3 splits the first game, 2 the second game, last game clean. Picked up all other spares. Elbow hurt like hell all night, and now my ******** ortho is making me go back for another CT because he didn't like the first set. I'm about ready to fire this guy. Average 213

[Aslan]

Too bad it wasn't a 4-game league...you were on track for a 300-game!

[Timmyb]

Trying to get away from that "one game ruins everything" bowling.

247/192/219=658. Was moving along just fine until the 5th frame of game two. Yanked the crap out of the ball, and Greek church. Downhill from there. Was on a 270-ish pace in the 3rd, and wheels came off there, too. Two weeks in a row that could have easily been 7's had I cut out the dumb mistakes. Average 214. I was also looking forward to pre-bowling for next week so I could go to the Brewers playoff games. Not so much....

[Timmyb]

I tried to get away from the "one game ruins everything". Went to the "two game" method.

197/186/237=620. Let's start with I hate lanes 7 and 8. Some of the worst games I've thrown in this building have come on this pair. That said, 5 opens in 2 games, splits or not, will kill you every time. Last game was clean. Need to get these two lanes out of my head. Average backs up 1 to 213.

[Timmyb]

I figured out the trick. Go get your Covid booster the day before.

235/257/244=736. This night was not a "best of" night by any means. I missed 4 out of 5 10 pins I left, plus one other open. Only the last game was clean. Not sure where I was on the whiffs, as I think I hadn't missed a 10 in a few weeks. I'll definitely still take it. just gotta clean up the mistakes. Average 217.

[Timmyb]

My grandpa, the man who had the most influence on my game, would repeatedly tell me the same thing whenever I got down on myself. "Tim, one day this all comes together, and it all makes sense". That night was tonight.

300/300/256=856

I'm not sure where my head was walking in, but it seems like it was in the right place. Yeah, a couple balls were of the "got away with that one" variety, but not many. The string was 25 strikes. The total on the end of the night was 33. Here's all the firsts--

1st 300 game
1st (2) 300 game night
1st back-to-back 300's
1st 800 series
1st 30-clean night

Average is now 224. If you'll excuse me, I have some jewelry to go pick out.....

[J Anderson]

Congrats!!!

I am thoroughly impressed.

[SRB57]

Congratulations on a fantastic achievement.

Something you will never forget. Enjoy it!!

[boatman37]

Whoa! Awesome. Congrats.
A year or so ago I said on here that I would probably never roll a 300 and I was willing to accept that. I still haven't but I now have the confidence to say that someday I will and I feel it will be this year. I mean I have rolled 12 in a row before but over 2 games. I used to average about 12 or so strikes a night (guessing) and now I'm averaging about 17.

[bubba809]

Wow, I had to read that twice to match those 300's. That is incredible Timmy! Huge Congrats!!

[boomer]

Awesome night! Great job!!!

[Timmyb]

I was hoping to not have a letdown after the week of my bowling life. The new kid oiling the lanes provided myself, and pretty much everyone in the house with just that.

169/152/258=579. I don't own a piece of equipment that was useable on whatever this lane condition was. You could literally see everyone's ball jump a couple of times going down the lane. Turns out he loaded the wiping roll wrong? Dunno what's inside those things. Last game was courtesy of switching to my urethane spare ball, which worked quite nicely. 7 opens in the first 2 games killed me. The one ten pin I missed actually hooked at the end and passed right by. Sounds like a training opportunity for this young lad...

Average backs up to 222.

[Timmyb]

Not terrible. not stellar.

242/198/214=654. This was easily a 700 without the 2 opens in each game. Lanes 1-2 have this knack for making you pay for being even a little bit off, but that doesn't account for the 2 2-4-5 leaves I missed. Considering I started both games 1 and 3 with 4 in a row, mistakes will kill you. Average stays 221.

[SRB57]

Still a decent night like you said not good not bad. I am having the same type year as you so far. This week I had a 640 in one league then had 727 (30 clean) in the other league. For me it is all about getting the ball to go through the pins good on these house shots. Steve

[Timmyb]

Still a decent night like you said not good not bad. I am having the same type year as you so far. This week I had a 640 in one league then had 727 (30 clean) in the other league. For me it is all about getting the ball to go through the pins good on these house shots. Steve

I hate to say this, but I rarely watch my ball go through the pins. I'm sure it's in my line of sight, but I kind of watch everything. I have a different release and turn on the ball than most people have (my PSO calls me a "spinner"), and it generates some pretty ridiculous pin action at times, so I get caught up in watching that.

[J Anderson]

I hate to say this, but I rarely watch my ball go through the pins. I'm sure it's in my line of sight, but I kind of watch everything. I have a different release and turn on the ball than most people have (my PSO calls me a "spinner"), and it generates some pretty ridiculous pin action at times, so I get caught up in watching that.

I’m in the same club. Probably more a result of being a once a week bowler for the first 30 some years that I bowled, not knowing I should be observing the ball all the way through the pins, than having spectacular pin action.

[boatman37]

For the past year or so I have been trying to focus on where my ball exits the pin deck. It does seem the harder I throw the harder it is for me to focus on it. I'm trying to get to where I can view where it exits the deck and also to see what the 7 pin does but haven't made it that far yet...lol

[Timmyb]

Another thing that may hinder me watching that is I'm a spot bowler who relies on my release being consistent. My progression is feet, spots, approach, and release. I watch for my break point down the lane, and then watch it hit. I figure I average near 220, so something in all that mess works....

[SRB57]

Another thing that may hinder me watching that is I'm a spot bowler who relies on my release being consistent. My progression is feet, spots, approach, and release. I watch for my break point down the lane, and then watch it hit. I figure I average near 220, so something in all that mess works....

I also am a spot bowler also. I watch the ball through the arrows then at the break spot the last thing is how it goes through the pins. I use to just look at the foul line for the longest time until changing to spot. Continue your great season. Steve

[Timmyb]

Saturday Senior/Non-senior handicap tournament. Fondly referred to as the "Over/Under".

Me-214/228/198=640
Antonio-675 (shoulda wrote his scores down)

Tough shot. Haven't bowled in this house in 6 years, but memories of how fast lanes conditions change, and memories of standing 5 boards apart on the same pair didn't go away. Stayed with the Phaze all day, just because it breaks later than my other 2 balls. Two opens per game were what prevented me from a better day, that and leaving a ton of 10 pins (8). Still, it was above my posted average. Couple that with my partner shooting 120 pins above his, and with handicap, we stand 4th in the tournament with three squads to go. We'll see what happens.

[Timmyb]

Tuesday scores. Not really in the groove right now.

200/181/214=595. Was a struggle from the beginning. Missed spares (7) were the big culprit tonight, but a complete lack of any ability to throw the same shot twice was behind a lot of it. 9 games in one week is more than I bowl regularly, so I may have been tired, but no excuse, I did not execute tonight. Average drops to 219. I want my magic back from a few weeks back....

[Timmyb]

Back in the groove.

214/258/226=698. It helps to pay attention to ball reaction. Since the big night a month ago, neither of my solid balls I keep in the bag were giving me any kind of consistency (outside of my own dumb mistakes), so the SureLock got left home in place of the Phaze III. Took a couple of frames to figure out to move about 4 boards left to let this thing move. It's definitely not a "down and in" kind of ball. Once I got settled in, things went well. 3 opens cost me a good 700 series. My 10-pin abilities seem to be suspect lately....

Average back to 220.

[Timmyb]

Saturday Senior/Non-senior handicap tournament. Fondly referred to as the "Over/Under".



Update--Ended up tied for 9th place in the city.

[boatman37]

Same here. 686 last night and 5 opens cost me a possible 750 (opened 9th and 10th in game 2)

[SRB57]

Congrats Timmyb.

Boatman, I had a pair of 640's this week. I just am unable to carry consistently. This is a easy house shot and can't seem to find the best spot to carry from. I will go strike 10 pin strike 7 pin. I shouldn't complain but I watch the kids slinging pins everywhere. Steve

[Timmyb]

I will go strike 10 pin strike 7 pin. I shouldn't complain but I watch the kids slinging pins everywhere. Steve

Funny thing is, I was the guy slinging pins this week. I had a couple of messengers where I thought a two-hander was out there....

[SRB57]

Funny thing is, I was the guy slinging pins this week. I had a couple of messengers where I thought a two-hander was out there....

I am good for 1 maybe 2 messengers per season. My rev rate and ball speed are a notch below yours so there lies my problem. I have come to the conclusion my rev rate and ball speed are what they are I have to be more accurate. Steve

[boatman37]

I was getting great carry the other night. Maybe the best I have seen for myself. We have a 2 hander with a pretty high rev rate on our team and I was getting the kind of carry he usually gets

[Timmyb]

Stayed on task, but getting a little tired of mistakes.

251/214/245=710. Book-ended the first game with 5 in a row. Unfortunately, plunked a Greek Church right in the middle of that. Book ended game two with 2 whiffed 7-pins. Started 3 with 7 straight, then blew a 10-pin. One other open equaled 5 on the night. Getting a little concerned with an increasing amount of single pin misses. That crap will kill a good night. Average ticks to 221.

[boatman37]

Stayed on task, but getting a little tired of mistakes.

251/214/245=710. Book-ended the first game with 5 in a row. Unfortunately, plunked a Greek Church right in the middle of that. Book ended game two with 2 whiffed 7-pins. Started 3 with 7 straight, then blew a 10-pin. One other open equaled 5 on the night. Getting a little concerned with an increasing amount of single pin misses. That crap will kill a good night. Average ticks to 221.

710 with 5 opens looks great on paper but I understand the frustration there. I experienced it last week. My issue was last night was the opposite. Couldn't keep the ball on the left side of the head pin but only had 1 open (well 2 if you count my gutter ball). Yep, in warm-ups was getting the ball out to about the 2 board when I was targeting the 6-7. First ball of game 1 dropped in the gutter then left the 2-4-7. But I went in early last night and threw 2 practice games shooting at nothing but corner pins with my T-Zone

[SRB57]

Nice night especially with 5 opens! I was 30 clean again last night (with a 4-7-10 conversion) for a 629. I just am unable to carry. Left a bunch on 10,7 and 4 pins. Congrats on your carry!! Steve

[Timmyb]

Better night than last week, with a lot less mistakes.

214/267/245=726. Lanes were a little grabby right from the start. First shot went through the nose, leaving a 4-6-7. Did not open again for the rest of the night. 6 9-counts in the first game was frustrating, but by the end of that game, the lanes came to me. Had to throw pretty hard all night, and I'm paying for that today. Next Tuesday is the MRI on my right shoulder. Not expecting this to end well. Average up to 223.

[Timmyb]

Good night.

216/257/208=681. First two games clean. First ball in the 3rd, and off my hand, knew this was going to be an "uh oh" ball. Crashed through the nose, leaving a 3-4-6-7-9-10 split. Got 5 of them, but then the struggle was on. My teammate has started throwing a new urethane ball, and 2 of us started to struggle with finish in the 8th, 9th, and 10th. Left a 2-8-10, and a 2-10 (made) to finish the game. Going to have to learn how to read quicker if his line is starting to affect mine in the future. Average stays 223.

[Timmyb]

Was going to be a decent night.....

215/241/179=635. Feeling a little out-of-sorts walking in on Tuesday. Figured it was just a case of "hadafewtoomany" the night before. Still made good shots in the first 2, with 1 open in each game. Last game I couldn't get my head right. Just felt wobbly, and it showed with 3 opens (all splits). Wednesday morning came, and we were off to get Covid tested. So far just feels like a really bad head cold, but not taking any chances with this crap. Average drops 1 to 222.

[boatman37]

Was going to be a decent night.....

215/241/179=635. Feeling a little out-of-sorts walking in on Tuesday. Figured it was just a case of "hadafewtoomany" the night before. Still made good shots in the first 2, with 1 open in each game. Last game I couldn't get my head right. Just felt wobbly, and it showed with 3 opens (all splits). Wednesday morning came, and we were off to get Covid tested. So far just feels like a really bad head cold, but not taking any chances with this crap. Average drops 1 to 222.

Hope ya feel better soon. One of the guys on my team wasn't there Tuesday night cause he tested positive and another guy I was sitting with last week talking to was also out with COVID. Like I said in another post, it's everywhere right now but from what I'm hearing the cases aren't as harsh as they had been in the past.

[SRB57]

Still a decent night Timmyb other than the 179 last game but it happens. I seem to bowl right with you as a 30 clean 675 last week and 30 clean 634 this week. Steve

[Timmyb]

Hope ya feel better soon. One of the guys on my team wasn't there Tuesday night cause he tested positive and another guy I was sitting with last week talking to was also out with COVID. Like I said in another post, it's everywhere right now but from what I'm hearing the cases aren't as harsh as they had been in the past.

So far, feels like a bad head cold. Still haven't gotten test results back.

[Timmyb]

No scores this week. Still in isolation. Definitely ready to go back next week!

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's scores. Bit of a rough return....

201/190/278=669. Could not keep my shot going where I wanted it. For the most part, everything was going right, and I could not seem to steer the ball to the shot I knew was out there. Only by blind luck that the scores in the first two were even what they were. Finally got my act together in the 3rd game. 7 straight off the start, and that 8th ball was the loudest ring-10 I think I've seen. Looking forward to next week. Average stays 222.

[Timmyb]

Another week full of mistakes and regret.

225/231/198=654. Since November, I've been a walking 700 series, but only have 3 to show for it due to the high amount of mistakes. Game 1--3 off the start, and then missed a 3-6-9-10, and whiffed a 10 pin. Game 2--4 off the start, them whiffed another 10. Game 3--5 off the start, then blew a 2-4-5, missed another 10, and left a 6-7-10 in the 10th. I'll excuse the miss on the split, maybe give myself a break on the bundle, but this crap with missing 10's has got to stop. I'm not sure where my head is on these, but it's not in the right place. Average stays 222.

[Aslan]

These scores are just crazy good. Even Covid doesn't phase you. You just roll back in the bowling alley and nearly drop a perfect game like it's nothing.

You need to start thinking about what you next "goal" is...because you can put a check mark next to "average 220+ on a THS".

[Timmyb]

In reply to Aslan, the "THS" got myself, and my team tonight. Let's just reiterate the fact that I hate 7&8 at Classic Lanes....

196/207/203=606. Again, I hate 7&8. Left 9 10-pins (missed one). Also chopped a 4-8, and tanked a 7 pin. I've had twice this many opens and left with a better series. Was never out of the pocket, but just couldn't find a way to carry strikes. Be it topography or mentality, this pair has had my number for 2 years running. Average drops 1 to 221.

Now, for the team aspect. We took 5 of 7. Never in my life have I bowled under such lopsided circumstances. The woman we bowled had a combined total handicap of 927 pins. The one I bowled against had a 260-something series. Just 2 of them totaled more than 200 pins per game. We almost got the one we lost, but literally, we were finally passing them in the 10th of each game we won. Nothing quite like bowling 4 against 6.....

[Timmyb]

Not in the groove.

198/203/222=623. Another night full of 10-pins and 9 counts (5 10-pins). Just not seeing carry right now. Longest string on the night was 3, and that was the start and end of game 3. Pissed me off, because I was clean until frame 29 (chopped a 2-4-5). I'm watching the ball go through, and it looks good, but pins just aren't dropping. Bet I had at least a dozen or more 9 counts last night. I've been on the Phaze III for about 2 months, and carry has been an issue the entire time. Think the SureLock will be making a re-appearance next week. Average drops one more to 220.

[boatman37]

Not in the groove.

198/203/222=623. Another night full of 10-pins and 9 counts (5 10-pins). Just not seeing carry right now. Longest string on the night was 3, and that was the start and end of game 3. Pissed me off, because I was clean until frame 29 (chopped a 2-4-5). I'm watching the ball go through, and it looks good, but pins just aren't dropping. Bet I had at least a dozen or more 9 counts last night. I've been on the Phaze III for about 2 months, and carry has been an issue the entire time. Think the SureLock will be making a re-appearance next week. Average drops one more to 220.

Same thing I have been seeing the past few weeks. I think 3 of the last 4 weeks I'm hitting the pocket but no carry

[Timmyb]

Better night, thanks to a ball switch, but not the one foretold....

220/269/205=694. Parked the Phaze, and brought the SureLock back out. That lasted all of 4 frames. Just too aggressive on what seemed like a dryer pattern than normal. Queue the IQ Nano. This ball comes out of the bag about every 2-3 months, and all it does is work. 3 opens on the night (2 in game 3) were really the only blemishes on a pretty steady performance. Was just nice seeing some carry again. Average back up to 221.

[Timmyb]

Total. Nuclear. Meltdown.....

243/190/165=598. Started with the Lock in practice, and quickly switched to the Nano. Good move. The Nano was pounding the pocket. Then for some reason, I lost control of my grip. I couldn't get any hold on the ball, so I ended up trying to squeeze. Pretty sure we all know how that ends, and you can see it in my scores. The last 3 hours at work I was working on a machine that uses oil for the grinding fluid, and I'm thinking it dried the living hell out of my hands, thus the hanging on for dear life. 4 opens in the last game, including 2 4-9 splits in a row. Not a fun night. Average slips back to 220.

[Timmyb]

Long, shi**y day, but ended okay.

251/214/228=693. First and third games were clean. The only real ugly spot in the night was a terrible shot that left me with a 2-4-8-10 in the middle of game two. No single pin misses on the night, plus we took all 7 points for what seems like the first time in months. Think my average is back to 221. Forgot to write down numbers while I was there.

To my wonderful cat Face, who crossed the bridge earlier in the day, I can only say that 16 years with you was not nearly long enough. See you on the other side, Boo.

[Timmyb]

Worst night in months.

190/170/212=572. I had a look in practice, but that disappeared in a hurry. started game one with a pocket 7-10. That was just a warning shot, as 2 more of those, and an 8-10, were on the way. I did not miss a single pin or non-split leave on the night, but 7 splits on a night will just kill you. All operator error, folks. I was just not on it last night. Average now down to 219.

Currently have an Idol Helios being drilled to replace my well-used SureLock. Should be in use next Tuesday.

[SRB57]

Worst night in months.

190/170/212=572. I had a look in practice, but that disappeared in a hurry. started game one with a pocket 7-10. That was just a warning shot, as 2 more of those, and an 8-10, were on the way. I did not miss a single pin or non-split leave on the night, but 7 splits on a night will just kill you. All operator error, folks. I was just not on it last night. Average now down to 219.

Currently have an Idol Helios being drilled to replace my well-used SureLock. Should be in use next Tuesday.

There is always going to be nights where things don't go your way. Just got to keep plugging away. I have been using a helios for a couple of months now and really like the shape it gives me. I pre ordered a Roto Grip Gem which should be a good ball on the fresh. Steve

[Timmyb]

Rule #1--and this is an important one--never go bowling when you think you might be coming down with something.....

184/180/212=576. Tried throwing the new Helios. I just did not have enough gas to work with this ball. It moves very fast in the last 6-8', and for me to throw that kind of arc to accommodate requires a little more power on my part, which I did not have. Switched to the IQ in the middle of game 2 so I could back off a little on speed, which is likely the only way I made it through the rest of the night. Shoulda just stayed home, as I was full on sick by the end of the night. Amazing how fast this version of the flu sets in....

Average slinks down to 218.

[Timmyb]

So, no flu, new ball, and a glorious tip from my doubles partner.

238/248/212=698. Right away in practice, I moved left 4 boards to give the Helios some room. Had a good look, and then started the 1st frame with a Greek church. My partner said I look like a was squared up with my shoulders on that shot. Made a conscious effort to open up the shoulders, and all was good after that. Only other open on the night was a 2-4-10, which was just a straight-up release issue on my part. Helios stayed on the lanes all night, just moving to the inside as the progression went on. My PSO told me this ball would be "arc-ey". He was waaaaay right on that.

Average back to 219.

[boatman37]

So, no flu, new ball, and a glorious tip from my doubles partner.

238/248/212=698. Right away in practice, I moved left 4 boards to give the Helios some room. Had a good look, and then started the 1st frame with a Greek church. My partner said I look like a was squared up with my shoulders on that shot. Made a conscious effort to open up the shoulders, and all was good after that. Only other open on the night was a 2-4-10, which was just a straight-up release issue on my part. Helios stayed on the lanes all night, just moving to the inside as the progression went on. My PSO told me this ball would be "arc-ey". He was waaaaay right on that.

Average back to 219.

Nice to hear about the Helios. Can't wait to get my punched up and try it out. And great job!

[Timmyb]

Put one together this week. Helios all night.

255/289/234=778. Only open on the night was a 4-9 that was a tug off my hand. Still hit decent enough that it could have easily been a strike. Anything else were single pins, save one 6-10. Ball hits like a truck. Haven't stood this far left in a very long time, and it's working. Average back to 220.

[boomer]

very nice!!!

[Timmyb]

Good night.

212/241/257=710. Slow first game, hampered by the fact I couldn't hang on to the ball. Finally started blowing in the thumb AND finger holes, and that worked. Did have my first non-split open for the first time in a few weeks (whiffed a 6-10), and 2 more ringing 4-9 splits. Yeah, this ball drives. Average now 221.

[boomer]

Never got that - why does blowing in the holes help you hold on to the ball? (not mocking, not hating. . . genuinely asking)

[Timmyb]

Never got that - why does blowing in the holes help you hold on to the ball? (not mocking, not hating. . . genuinely asking)

While not very much, there's a bit of moisture in the breath you exhale. In my case, it's just enough to "tack" up the holes a little. This time of year, thanks to my trade, my hands are super dry, even if I'm using moisturizer. Since my thumb and fingers change very little while bowling, I have the holes fitted very close, so tape isn't an option.

[boomer]

Cool! Thanks - I've always wondered. Always felt really goofy to try it myself. . . LOL

[Timmyb]

Just average....

204/220/227=651. Lanes were odd last night. Big stripe between 2nd and 3rd arrow that just wouldn't move. Inside, and through the nose. Outside, and through the nose. 4 splits last night, all earned. No one else on our pair was stellar last night, either, so maybe just an off night for the oiler. Average backs up to 220.

[Timmyb]

Position week, and last week that counts.

237/227/257=721 (30 clean). Week 5 of using the Helios. Averaging 237 with the ball. Safe to say I love this thing. It doesn't seem to want a lot of changes during the night, even when one of my guys is throwing urethane right on the side of my line. Total move on the night was about 3 boards right, and then drifted back to where I was to start. I did leave 3 screaming 9 pins last night, but for once no 4 pin attached to it. Finished the season at 221, and the first time over 20K in pin count (20599). The icing was my second 30 clean. Sweeper next week, and then trap and sporties leagues start. Give my tired arm a rest!

[SRB57]

Nice bowling Timmyb. You are right on the Helios that ball is the best piece I had had in a long time. It just has that nice round shape and finishes nice. Perfect for me with a lower rev rate and speed. I just had a Roto Grip Gem drilled and is a bit strong for me but has it's place in my arsenal. Again nice shooting all year!! Steve

[Timmyb]

Sweeper week.

227/234/226=687. Ran my streak of clean frames to 44, when some loudmouth 4 lanes over started hollering, and I lost concentration, ending up with a 4-6-7 split. No excuses, he's always yelling about something, but it got me this time.

Best season I've had since my early 20's. Over 20K in pins, my first (and second) 300, and my first 800. Finished with a 221 average. Stat sheet says I never shot below 550, and only 6 times under 600. Six times into the 700's. Six weeks throwing the Helios, and it's holding a 235 average. Gonna take some time off, maybe hit a few of the sport shot tourneys around town, and just go shooting for a while. If I bowl, I'll post.

[Timmyb]

Back at it.

228/193/220 = 640. Spent the better part of the evening just trying to get my footwork back. First game was clean, second game-second frame smoked the pocket, and paid for it with the first pocket 7-10 of the year. 4 opens on the night (2 splits, 2 whiffed 10-pins). Got to the 3rd game, and decided to try to use some finger tape on my ring finger, which was getting increasingly painful during the night. Think we'll be going to talk to Dwight about opening up the finger holes a bit so I can do this all the time. The feel took a bit to get used to, but the "ouch" factor went away immediately. Same silver tape Kris Prather uses. Thin, but still has some tack to it. Ball seem to come off much better, but that may have been because it didn't hurt anymore. I'll take a 213 start.

[Timmyb]

Apparently, I'm consistent....

223/224/194 = 641. Far too many mistakes to have expected better out of Tuesday. 6 opens on the night. Blew by 2 10 pins again, plus missed left on 4 pin. Rest were splits, including another pocket 7-10. Last game was a nightmare for all on my team, as bowling against the granny team, who throws nothing but plastic, has a way of nuking the lanes. Plus, a 285 pin deficit in handicap per game didn't help our spirits. Won anyway. Guess I'll stay at 213.

[Timmyb]

Pre-bowled this week.

234/201/200 = 635. Rough go. Bowled Sunday, after Saturday night league, and a fundraiser held Sunday afternoon. Lanes were fried. There was somewhat of an inside line, but it was tight. If you got the ball too far out, you were lucky if you got a crossover, otherwise it usually went further than that. Only opens were splits, and for once did not miss any 10 pins. 212 is now the average.

[Timmyb]

Need to get off the roller coaster.

201/279/161 = 641. Lanes were just funky. Again, they had a high school team in bowling starting on our pair, so the kid oiling stop at the pair before ours, and I guess the thing sat for a good hour before he started it back up. Not sure why, but every time we run into this, the lanes are odd. First game wet/dry, then nearly perfect (ran 9 to start). Last game, it was like someone flipped a switch. If you got inside of about 6 or 7, that ball was sailing down the lanes, nearly missing the head pin. Had 2 pocket 7-10's, whiffed 2 7 pins, and chopped 3 off of a bucket. Not a fun game. However, 2 weeks in a row I have not missed a 10 pin. Silver lining, I guess. Average clicks back to 213.

[Timmyb]

Shot my mouth off last week about not missing a 10 pin for 2 weeks.

161/225/247 = 633. Could not get my bearings the first game (4 opens). Got better on game 2 (2 opens), and no opens game 3. All 6 opens last night were 10 pin misses (I made 2). Just tons of inexcusable mistakes. Every week I have one game that just tanks the whole night. Average at 212.

[boatman37]

Shot my mouth off last week about not missing a 10 pin for 2 weeks.

161/225/247 = 633. Could not get my bearings the first game (4 opens). Got better on game 2 (2 opens), and no opens game 3. All 6 opens last night were 10 pin misses (I made 2). Just tons of inexcusable mistakes. Every week I have one game that just tanks the whole night. Average at 212.

My first 5 weeks were like that. Couldn't string 3 good games together. Finally did it last night

[Timmyb]

Tough night, but stayed on track.

218/215/213 = 646. Tale of 2 lanes. Lane 12? Only 2 balls the entire night didn't strike. Not so much for 11. Didn't seem where I moved, that ball just wouldn't hit hard. Seemed like I had to chase every game just to get to average. 29 clean frames, too. Just goes to show how much striking makes a difference, but staying clean also helps. Still stuck at 213.

[Timmyb]

Not moving in the right direction.

174/235/178 = 587. Had no control of my game all night, save the 6-pack I ran in the second game. No clean games. Every open was a split off of a light hit, usually including a 2 pin. I can't think of a time when I threw the ball the same way twice, even on the string. No excuses, I was just not in control last night. Average drops to 210.

[Timmyb]

I remotely remember what it was like to hit 3 good games in a row. Just not tonight....

248/190/231=669. Clean first game. Couldn't get the ball out of the pocket. Lanes went away right at the start of the second game (yep, bowling grannies with plastic balls), and I made the switch too late. Third game was brilliant until the 10th, and just chucked what was headed to be a 260-ish game. The 7-year old IQ Nano is still a force. The ball just won't die. Average back to 212.

[J Anderson]

I remotely remember what it was like to hit 3 good games in a row. Just not tonight....

248/190/231=669. Clean first game. Couldn't get the ball out of the pocket. Lanes went away right at the start of the second game (yep, bowling grannies with plastic balls), and I made the switch too late. Third game was brilliant until the 10th, and just chucked what was headed to be a 260-ish game. The 7-year old IQ Nano is still a force. The ball just won't die. Average back to 212.

Might not be 3 good games but it’s still a new high series for the season.

[Timmyb]

Might not be 3 good games but it’s still a new high series for the season.

Progress is progress....

[Timmyb]

Progress suspended....

201/221/204 = 626. Figured out the Helios was just not going to work by the 3rd frame. Weird, for a ball that hooks, it just didn't seem to want to finish from, oh, anywhere. Stuck with the old-*** Nano the rest of the night. Not a bad shot, just some bad shot-making. 4 opens on the night, all through-the-nose splits. I've got to figure out what's holding me back from the kind of performance I had last year, because it's getting frustrating. On the upside, team took all 7, from the first place team. Average back down to 211.

[boatman37]

Where do you usually use your Helios? I won mine so we decided to try a short pin but it hasn't worked out well. My guy is a Brunswick guy so when he went short pin he went with Mo's minimal hook (90 x 2.375 x 45). I leave alot of corner pins and pretty much never use it. Been thinking about re-drilling it to something more usable. My question is I have an Altered Reality at 2000 (45 x 3.5 x 30) and a Zen Soul at 3000 (60 x 4.5 x 40). Not sure if there would be too much overlap with the Helios or if it might make sense?

[Timmyb]

Where do you usually use your Helios? I won mine so we decided to try a short pin but it hasn't worked out well. My guy is a Brunswick guy so when he went short pin he went with Mo's minimal hook (90 x 2.375 x 45). I leave alot of corner pins and pretty much never use it. Been thinking about re-drilling it to something more usable. My question is I have an Altered Reality at 2000 (45 x 3.5 x 30) and a Zen Soul at 3000 (60 x 4.5 x 40). Not sure if there would be too much overlap with the Helios or if it might make sense?

Helios was an absolute monster when I pulled it out last year, but that has not been the case so far this year. Seems to start well, but has issues end of 2nd/start of 3rd. We do have an inordinate amount of plastic thrown in our league, so that is part of the problem. It does seem like the shot has been changed this year, either by our house, or the USBC. I went toe-to-toe with one guy last year for high average, and we were both 220+. This year, we're both struggling to stay above 210.

Standard ring finger pin up drill. Can't find my drill sheet for numbers. 10 pins have been an issue this year with that ball. I left a dozen or so in one night a few weeks back, but this could also be the house as well, as one of my teammates threw 8 in row 2 weeks ago. We also have a couple of new people doing lane maintenance now, so who knows what's going on. Our house is also very "airy", so in a few weeks, the Helios could be my best friend....

[Timmyb]

A blind dog finds a bone....

229/248/235 = 712. All Helios, all night. First game had some struggles, until me and my doubles partner finally figured out we've been trying to get our equipment to do what we want, instead of doing what it wants to do. Made good shots the first game, but a flat pocket hit in the 9th, and the attached 7-10 split, convinced me to move 2 boards right. Never moved again the rest of the night. 29 clean frames. 3 or 4 weeks ago I shot 29 clean, and left with a 646. Strikes maketh the man,,,,,

Average pops to 214.

[boomer]

nice!

[Timmyb]

Weird night.

245/226/196 = 667. Started off the night in the same exact spot I was last week (only 2 pairs over), and that worked well, until it didn't. I have never seen a pair break down like they did tonight. By the 3rd game, it was a feat just to get the ball to the head pin. Shots you would think were right there, and next thing you're leaving a 2 pin spare of some sort. There was a spot that would kick, but it seemed unreachable. Another 29-clean night, though (whiffed a 7-pin). Average sneaks up 1 to 215.

[Timmyb]

Was out of town a few days. Just getting here today.

158/232/212 = 602. Again, didn't recognize the Helios wasn't the answer until it was too late to save the first game. 4 opens, all splits. Ball just seemed like it didn't want to go. Pulled out ol' reliable (Nano), and went from there. I need to figure out why the ball works well one week, and not the next. Seems like it's burning up, but you wouldn't know that from practice. Seeing as all of my solid surface balls are polished, and this one isn't, I may give that a go. We have a tournament today at a house I've never shot at, so I didn't want to go radical this minute.

Average drops back to 213.

[Timmyb]

Milwaukee Senior/Non-senior tournament. Better luck next year....

Trying to make ball changes in a house you have no familiarity with is not fun. Me? 189/194/208. Antonio? 223/160/160. Line was tight all day, which was to be expected. It's an old house, built in 1960, with 8 synthetic/wood lanes. 4 people per lane. No excuses, we just weren't on it today. Both of us shuffled through every bit of equipment we brought with, but when you don't have your control, you're just not going anywhere. We'll try again next year.

[Timmyb]

Tuesdays scores. Nothing to write home about.

191/209/213 = 613. Never got comfortable in my own shoes Tuesday. 3 pocket 7-10's, a 2-8-10, a Greek church, and a whiffed 7 pin, besides just not striking, killed the night. I did polish the Helios, which definitely helped the ball read better down lane, but if you don't hit your marks, that makes no difference. I need to find a way to get out of my own way. Average stays at 213.

[Timmyb]

I'm going to look a gift horse in the mouth....

286/183/217 = 686. Probably the single most frustration high-6 I've ever thrown. Started the first game on 10 straight, and then this turd falls off my hand, leaving a 2-8-10. Started 2 with 3 straight, and then the wheels came off. 4 opens in a row, 3 of them single pin. Completely read the transition wrong. Kinda gathered it back up in 3. Left 4 10-pins, and had to throw 4 at the end of the game to salvage it. Yeah, I'm not supposed to ***** about a 686, but here I am. Our guess was the lane guy put down the Wednesday shot (scratch league), which is 35', and it sure behaved like it. No excuses, I did not make the right corrections. Average ticks back to 214.

[boatman37]

Ugh. Last week I started my first game with the front 10. All perfectly in the pocket. 11th frame got just a little inside and left the 2-4-7 (lefty). Covered it for a 287. I know the feeling...lol. But followed that up with a 227 and 208 for a 722

[Timmyb]

A night I'd sooner forget.

171/188/216 = 575. At least practice went well. 3 frames after that, and all bets were off. No one (except my buddy on the next pair who shot his 9th 300) could lock in on these lanes. Longest string on the night was 4. 3 straight 2-pin splits in the first game killed that one. Had to move 6 right by the 5th frame. Had a Dutch going in the second, and then whiffed a 7 pin to kill that. Seemed like you just could use the same line twice. One guy on the other end of the house was screaming at the kids behind the counter. They admitted the conditioner needed an overhaul. Well, get on it. Look, I get it. I'm supposed to be able to make adjustments, but this was just silly. What it comes down to is this is just a ****ty, Tuesday handicap league. All folks want to do is come in, have a good night with their friends, and bowl halfway decent. If I wanted to be in a skills league, I'd have joined one, but I usually can't stand most of the people in them (or scratch leagues, for that matter). I'm 56, for Christ's sake. Been they, done that. Average back to 212.

[J Anderson]

A night I'd sooner forget.

171/188/216 = 575. At least practice went well. 3 frames after that, and all bets were off. No one (except my buddy on the next pair who shot his 9th 300) could lock in on these lanes. Longest string on the night was 4. 3 straight 2-pin splits in the first game killed that one. Had to move 6 right by the 5th frame. Had a Dutch going in the second, and then whiffed a 7 pin to kill that. Seemed like you just could use the same line twice. One guy on the other end of the house was screaming at the kids behind the counter. They admitted the conditioner needed an overhaul. Well, get on it. Look, I get it. I'm supposed to be able to make adjustments, but this was just silly. What it comes down to is this is just a ****ty, Tuesday handicap league. All folks want to do is come in, have a good night with their friends, and bowl halfway decent. If I wanted to be in a skills league, I'd have joined one, but I usually can't stand most of the people in them (or scratch leagues, for that matter). I'm 56, for Christ's sake. Been they, done that. Average back to 212.

When I was younger, bowling league was a chance to hang out with my dad. While we all tried our best, it was far more social than serious. I only started taking it seriously after fifty. I now feel like I still have one foot in each sphere, bowling or subbing in a sport league and entering the occasional NEBA tournament, yet still bowling in a non-sanctioned fun league.

Regardless of whether it’s challenge, sport, or THS, I don’t complain about the lane condition,( now the condition of the approaches is a completely different matter ) as long as we’re all facing the same condition, the competition is fair. When the lanes are tough you just get to throw the ball more often. My former teammate Otto used to say that he enjoyed golf more than most golfers because he got to hit the ball more times��

[Timmyb]

When I was younger, bowling league was a chance to hang out with my dad. While we all tried our best, it was far more social than serious. I only started taking it seriously after fifty. I now feel like I still have one foot in each sphere, bowling or subbing in a sport league and entering the occasional NEBA tournament, yet still bowling in a non-sanctioned fun league.

Regardless of whether it’s challenge, sport, or THS, I don’t complain about the lane condition,( now the condition of the approaches is a completely different matter ) as long as we’re all facing the same condition, the competition is fair. When the lanes are tough you just get to throw the ball more often. My former teammate Otto used to say that he enjoyed golf more than most golfers because he got to hit the ball more times��

The issue with mixed conditions is making it tough on nearly everyone there, in every league bowled in this house. The conditioner hasn't had its covers on in months, because they're constantly fixing it to keep it going. I'd heard a rumor that the MA-USBC has pulled tournaments because of maintenance issues, but I have no way to corroborate that. The guy I battled with for high average last year is sitting at 207, down 16 pins. I'm down 9 at this point. We're both very good at making adjustments, and staying ahead of the transition, but neither of us can really keep up this year. Right now, there's a fair amount of discontent in nearly every league there. That doesn't bode well for a house. I don't complain a lot about the lane conditions, usually admitting that I didn't see a change happening. What's taking place right now is approaching impossible. When you're moving 6-8 left in 3 frames, and then back a game later, that's no longer a "house" shot.

[J Anderson]

The issue with mixed conditions is making it tough on nearly everyone there, in every league bowled in this house. The conditioner hasn't had its covers on in months, because they're constantly fixing it to keep it going. I'd heard a rumor that the MA-USBC has pulled tournaments because of maintenance issues, but I have no way to corroborate that. The guy I battled with for high average last year is sitting at 207, down 16 pins. I'm down 9 at this point. We're both very good at making adjustments, and staying ahead of the transition, but neither of us can really keep up this year. Right now, there's a fair amount of discontent in nearly every league there. That doesn't bode well for a house. I don't complain a lot about the lane conditions, usually admitting that I didn't see a change happening. What's taking place right now is approaching impossible. When you're moving 6-8 left in 3 frames, and then back a game later, that's no longer a "house" shot.

I see your point. It’s one thing if you have a week where the pattern plays weird. When it’s every week it gets to you, especially if you didn’t sign up for a sport or challenge league. I admit that I can only take 34 or 35 weeks of sport league and then I need to take at least a month off. I bowled last winter and summer, so since September I have only subbed twice in the sport league.

[Timmyb]

I see your point. It’s one thing if you have a week where the pattern plays weird. When it’s every week it gets to you, especially if you didn’t sign up for a sport or challenge league. I admit that I can only take 34 or 35 weeks of sport league and then I need to take at least a month off. I bowled last winter and summer, so since September I have only subbed twice in the sport league.

It'd be one thing if I bowled more than one league, but my body no longer allows for that. It's why I decide to move away from the cutthroat scratch leagues around here. I have more fun bowling with people that are just there to have fun and maybe bowl a little. It's not any fun when you're struggling.

[Timmyb]

Better night, but boy, I didn't think it would be.

210/245/231 = 686. I've decided after the start I had in the first game that the Helios is going to get set down until whatever oiling shortage/equipment issue is over at Classic. This ball is just not working on these conditions. 2 opens in the first 5 frames (2-8-10, big 4) came from me trying to get the ball to hold any kind of shape. Switched to the IQ, and everything settled down from there. Clean the rest of the night. Bringing the Phaze back out next week. Average 213.

[boatman37]

lol. Similar to my night last night. Started game 1 with 2 opens then missed all 3 7 pins and still ended with 648. No idea how

[Timmyb]

Decent night, but still some frustrating shots.

196/279/215 = 690. I had 3 opens all night, all of them splits. 2 in the 1st game, and 1 to finish the night. For the first time in recorded history, I will admit to earning the pocket 7-10 in game one. Got the ball out too far, and it came back on an odd angle. 2 frames later, and left a 2-10. Needed 4 straight just to get to 196. 2nd game was just on. The blemish was a light hit that threw half the rack at the 7 pin. Thing probably spun at least 270°, but didn't go. Last game a lot of 10 pins. Thought I'd get a 7, but a light pocket 8-10 split sealed that. I'll own the first 2 splits, but not this one. Was a much more controlled night, with the Phaze start to finish. Average 214.

[Timmyb]

Another good week.

279/214/234 = 727. Second week in a row with a 279. Second week in a row starting (and finishing) with the Phaze III. The bonus to last night was we bowled the blind, so if the lanes were to go to hell, we only had ourselves to blame. Not the case, as the shot held all night. Maybe moved 2-3 boards during the whole night. Only opens were a 6-7 split (much deserved), and a chop on a 2-4-5. One of my teammates hit 750+ for the 3rd week in a row. Staying in 1st place since season split feels good. Average now up to 216.

[Timmyb]

Tough sledding tonight.

214/200/204 = 618. Could not get my feet right tonight, and on top of some sketchy lane conditions (as reported from every pair in the house...), it showed. Biggest game I saw thrown was a 234 by my teammate, and he surround that with a couple of 170's. Ball just did not want to finish on our pair. Two pairs over, and they couldn't keep it off the nose. I had 6 opens, 2 splits and 4 WTF's. Need to be better than this. Average 215.

[Timmyb]

Nothing special,

210/227/194 = 631. Rattled off 3 to start, then boom, a 3-4-6-7-10 (Remember this number). Strikes fell off after that. Game 2 was better on strikes, but still couldn't put them in bunches. Game 3? 9/spare, 3 in a row, and boom, the 3-4-6-7-10, again. Wheels were off after that. Never really felt like I had any command of my game last night. Need to get better before city tourney comes in February. Average stays 215.

[Timmyb]

No bowling for me this week, out of town for work training. Tried to pre-bowl on Sunday, but walked in and the place was like Chucky Cheese. 10 less than average, so I "shot" a 615.

[Timmyb]

Not my favorite night...

211/165/188 = 564. 1st game wasn't bad (clean), but still struggling with finish. Started 2 with a double, and then the wheels came off. 4 opens in that game, all splits. Had utterly no control of my game, complicated by a roughly 3 board spot to hit. Outside, and it's through the nose. Inside, you'd be lucky if it touched the nose. Same issues across the house, with only the straight-ball folks not saying anything. One of the kids behind the counter stated that the oiler is in absolute disrepair, and it would appear he's not concerned with fixing it. My hunch is the MA-USBC may have something to say about that when city tournament starts tomorrow, at this house. One lane had a visible puddle that the maintenance guy tried to wipe up (not on our pair). We came to this house 3 years ago because it had a reputation for being well taken care of, but the past year says different. Average slinks back to 214.

[boomer]

Ugh - I feel your pain. Our house has two machines, neither of which seems to be consistently working.

[Timmyb]

A somewhat better night.

203/237/183 = 623. Lanes seemed like they could have been oiled by a machine that actually worked. First game was marred by a Big Four (remember this....) on my first ball, and then a missed 10. Got my wits back and settled in, but damage done. 2nd game clean. 3rd game was all operator error. Just did not have command. Two more Big Fours, and another whiffed 10 pin, and you get picture. I'm told by a guy that bowls on Thursday that they may have gotten the oiler fixed, remarkably just in time for the city tournament to start this weekend. I'm reasonably sure there would have been consequences had they not. Average falls to 213.

[Timmyb]

Milwaukee City Tournament, doubles/singles

Doubles - 191/228/210 = 629

Singles - 190/169/202 = 561

Word of the day? Carry. Or lack thereof. 6 games I logged 11 10-pins, 4 9-pins, 3 4-pins, 2 7-pins, and 2 pocket 7-10's. If we'd have kept track, I'd put the number of 10 pins between 6 bowlers at 40 or higher through 6 games. We bowl league in this house, and 19/20 or notorious for this, but never have I seen it this bad. I was good with ball selection and moves, staying in the pocket all day, but that carry, and a number of whiffs cost me. Hoping teams goes better today.

[Timmyb]

Day 2 of city, team event. Much better day.

227/257/240 = 724. Little shorter pattern today, which favors my game. Started with the Phaze, and it never left me cold today. Only blemish on the day was a whiffed 7 pin to start game 2. Finished both 2 and 3 with 6 in a row. Felt in command all day, and only had one shot that missed the pocket (through the nose, but got lucky and only left the 3-6). I wish every day was like this.

[J Anderson]

Nice bowling! How did the rest of your team do?

[SRB57]

Nice Bowling!! Steve

[Timmyb]

Nice bowling! How did the rest of your team do?

Two others were on they're average, the other two below. One of those is likely bowling with cracked ribs, but he's stubborn, and wouldn't sit. Hit 3034 for the team. That will not be enough to place anywhere.

[J Anderson]

Two others were on they're average, the other two below. One of those is likely bowling with cracked ribs, but he's stubborn, and wouldn't sit. Hit 3034 for the team. That will not be enough to place anywhere.

I’ve known a few bowlers like that. One of my friends bowled in our league on a Wednesday night. It was a late league that started at 8:30 pm. The first thing next morning he was rushed to the hospital with severe appendicitis.

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's scores. Rough start, and then.....

197/300/224 = 721. Started game 1 with what else but a 10 pin, which I promptly missed. Strike, and then a Greek Church, followed immediately with a pocket 7-10. Lanes were super tight and oily. Regained my bearings and finished with 4 to close that nightmare. Everything was golden after that. Strikes tapered off in game 3, but stayed clean. That 300 game #3, and there wasn't a lucky ball in the bunch. All of them were smashed. Average ticks back up to 214.

[boatman37]

Great job!

I started game 1 the other night with a pocket 7-10 and started game 2 with a gutter...lol

[boomer]

TIIIIMMMMYYYY!!!

Congrats, man! :)

[Timmyb]

Important lesson learned last night. If you want 800, make ALL your spares....

257/279/235 = 771. In the 26th frame, I had a great, but light, hit that threw half the rack at the 7 pin. The sumbitch stood. And I missed it. Truth be told, I had throw 24 strikes before that, but still no excuse. I threw it, and half way down it caught the puddle in the middle of the lane and checked up. Went by with about a 1/4" to spare (or not). Still a damn fine night, just a little aggravating. Nothing wrong with wanting to do better. Average up to 216. This is 3 700's in a row. I'll take this any day, averaging 246 over the past 10 days.

[boatman37]

Awesome!

[boomer]

Yeah - I hate it when that happens! LOL

Nice night!

[Timmyb]

Yeah - I hate it when that happens! LOL

Nice night!

:cool:

[SRB57]

Nice Shooting Timmyb. Steve

[Timmyb]

Tuesday's scores. Staying on it....

232/216/257 = 705. Game one, 4th frame, launched one through the nose, leaving a 2-4-6-10 (almost got it). Started game 2 with a whiffed 10 pin. That was it for opens. Game 3 was 6 straight to start. Not complaining. That's 4 700's in a row. As tight as the line has been over the past few weeks, it's not phasing me (no pun intended) much. Just trying to stay steady. Average creeps up to 217.

[Timmyb]

Not my best effort, but stayed above average.

230/192/237 = 659. 1st game clean, just couldn't get anything more than a double at a time. Started second game with 5, and then the wheels came off. 6th frame, light hit leaving the 4-5, only got the 5. 8th frame, pocket 8-10, 9th frame left the 4-6 (all me on that one). Whiffed a 10-pin in the 2nd frame of 3, and then ran 5. Not really sure what took place that second game, but boy howdy, it wasn't fun. I've had 3 opens in the past 3 weeks, and blew that off the charts last night. Just not concentrating, I guess. Average stays 217.

[Timmyb]

Wrong direction tonight (with a bit of help).

203/221/191 = 615. We knew this was going to be a rough one. The Galloping Grannies (as we like to call them) were our opponents tonight. Outside of the fact that they had us by 308 pins of handicap PER game, they all bowl with plastic balls, and throw from the right corner, quite often missing left of the head pin. Their ability to spread oil rivals that of the house oiler. I was out of my starting ball by frame 6, and by the time game 3 started, I was desperate to come up to the pocket with about the strongest animal in the bag. You can't plan on getting any kind of read that'll last you much more then 4-5 frames bowling against them. Very nice ladies, but God, I hate bowling them. I was clean until frame 16, then had 3 opens in the 3rd game. At least with 3 weeks left, we won't see them again. Average stays 217, barely.

[boomer]

Yeah - I feel ya. We have a guy who still bowls with his 1970s era Black Beauty, pretty much same as your Grannies, and moves the oil right were we like to hook. Bah. Just have to bowl around him.

He and his wife are really sweet, though.

Oh well!

[Timmyb]

I've had some strange nights bowling, but this one takes the cake.

233/255/--- = ???. Had a great night going until the start of the 3rd game, and things just went sideways. 1st frame, ball got off my hands, and I left my favorite leave, the bucket. Tugged the spare ball and left the 5 pin. Absolutely crushed the next shot, to leave a surprise 7 pin. The sweep came down, and that's where the night goes wrong. Lane locks up. Kids are in back for the next 15 minutes trying to get anything to function. Meantime, my ball is still back there. After 15 minutes, suddenly lanes 1-6 go dark. Another 10 minutes, and they got those back on, but my lane 1 is still frozen. This is the kind of nonsense everyone in this league has been dealing with all year. The kid comes out, looks all 4 of us, and the other team, dead in the eyes and says "I don't know what's going on. It just won't work". Then orders us to go finish our game on lanes 17-18, after the team there is done bowling the blind. After a few uncomfortable moments staring at each other, we all say "nope, not moving". Other team joins with us. League secretary comes down, and tells us to just go move down. We all packed our **** and left. Let's just say words were exchanged after that.....

Not sure how this'll end, or how the scoring will play out. I think after 27 weeks of this nonsense, they should have expected something to break sooner or later. Guess they just hadn't planned on this. I'm told that both teams will be talked to about this next week. By howdy, I'm looking forward to this.

[boomer]

You got your ball, right?

[Timmyb]

You got your ball, right?

I did. No damage.

[J Anderson]

I've had some strange nights bowling, but this one takes the cake.

233/255/--- = ???. Had a great night going until the start of the 3rd game, and things just went sideways. 1st frame, ball got off my hands, and I left my favorite leave, the bucket. Tugged the spare ball and left the 5 pin. Absolutely crushed the next shot, to leave a surprise 7 pin. The sweep came down, and that's where the night goes wrong. Lane locks up. Kids are in back for the next 15 minutes trying to get anything to function. Meantime, my ball is still back there. After 15 minutes, suddenly lanes 1-6 go dark. Another 10 minutes, and they got those back on, but my lane 1 is still frozen. This is the kind of nonsense everyone in this league has been dealing with all year. The kid comes out, looks all 4 of us, and the other team, dead in the eyes and says "I don't know what's going on. It just won't work". Then orders us to go finish our game on lanes 17-18, after the team there is done bowling the blind. After a few uncomfortable moments staring at each other, we all say "nope, not moving". Other team joins with us. League secretary comes down, and tells us to just go move down. We all packed our **** and left. Let's just say words were exchanged after that.....

Not sure how this'll end, or how the scoring will play out. I think after 27 weeks of this nonsense, they should have expected something to break sooner or later. Guess they just hadn't planned on this. I'm told that both teams will be talked to about this next week. By howdy, I'm looking forward to this.
I predict that your league secretary will quote USBC rule 116b and each team gets zeros for the frames not bowled. In my quick glance at the rules that was the only thing that seemed to apply. Were I your league secretary I would try contacting the rules department and ask if there’s anything that covers a pair of teams walking off because they refuse to move to another pair.

I really don’t see any solution that would have satisfied both teams. Obviously the center didn’t have anyone there qualified to fix the pinsetter. There was no way you were finishing your games on that pair. Move to the other pair and you have no idea of how they will play so even though they are fresher by half a game you could easily go from 255 to 155. If the secretary is on an ego trip he might try to claim the both teams forfeit the last game and get 0 points for it. This will definitely **** both teams off and would probably split the league between those side with you and those who think you’re in the wrong for walking off. The diplomatic solution would be let your teams post bowl the last game., but the you run into the fact (completely made up) that it’s 64 times harder to schedule a time when eight people can get together than for two people to meet to bowl a game. When you throw in the center deciding when lanes are available and the likely hood of getting relatively fresh conditions it’s nearly impossible.

[Timmyb]

I predict that your league secretary will quote USBC rule 116b and each team gets zeros for the frames not bowled. In my quick glance at the rules that was the only thing that seemed to apply. Were I your league secretary I would try contacting the rules department and ask if there’s anything that covers a pair of teams walking off because they refuse to move to another pair.

I really don’t see any solution that would have satisfied both teams. Obviously the center didn’t have anyone there qualified to fix the pinsetter. There was no way you were finishing your games on that pair. Move to the other pair and you have no idea of how they will play so even though they are fresher by half a game you could easily go from 255 to 155. If the secretary is on an ego trip he might try to claim the both teams forfeit the last game and get 0 points for it. This will definitely **** both teams off and would probably split the league between those side with you and those who think you’re in the wrong for walking off. The diplomatic solution would be let your teams post bowl the last game., but the you run into the fact (completely made up) that it’s 64 times harder to schedule a time when eight people can get together than for two people to meet to bowl a game. When you throw in the center deciding when lanes are available and the likely hood of getting relatively fresh conditions it’s nearly impossible.

Both teams got 2 points (each won a game). Nothing awarded for not bowling. Secretary is mum....