How do you move left/right and still keep the same target?

[dgz924s]

First off I am a straight up lane bowler so if I move a few boards left I also move my target board. Now my question is how do you keep the same target, say the 7 board and yet move several boards left? I see the angle has to change and no longer can I roll straight up the boards but when I try this I always go in the gutter.

A good example of what I ask is on the US Open pattern where the bowler starts out right and as the lane breaks down they move inside yet the ball ends up rolling to the right back to the original board targeted when far right. The only thing I can think of is I have to set the angle aiming further down lane and I have not been able to accomplish it.

I normally focus just beyond the foul line at the board I target, does this mean I need to extend the focus further down lane? ....How do I go about accomplishing this problem?

[jimlc2001]

With a stroker bowler, when you move left, it is not recommended to use the same target; this is assuming you are using the 15' arrows. If you are using the 6' dots, then it really is not recommended. Many bowlers do the typical 'Move left 2 boards, move arrow target left 1 board' when coming into the pocket high. This helps to keep the same break point down the lane, but have a better angle to the pocket.

[JaMau24]

I usually always target the same board when I move left. I aim far down the lane, at the break point though. Biggest help to my game was aiming further down the lane.

[billf]

Take a piece of paper a cut a half circle. Lay it out on another piece with a makeshift lane drawn on it (doesn't have to be perfect). If you place the circle on the paper so the arc extends through the pocket you can rotate the circle to see how the angle changes to accomplish the same shot. This isn't a true model of how most people bowl but will help you visualize the angle needed to hit the same break point from any board on the lane.

[Tampabaybob]

I usually always target the same board when I move left. I aim far down the lane, at the break point though. Biggest help to my game was aiming further down the lane.

This is an execellent trick to have in your bag of tricks. I agree with the comment that you should be using the arrows, because there is less chance of your head moving upon release. I teach the arrows area as your main target. In your case, if, you're using the arrows area, and your ball is coming into the pocket a little too high, move your target spot about 3 feet 'beyond' the arrows. Try to find a definitive spot on the board (arrow) you've been shooting , and use that as a target. (and by the way...do not blink your eyes from the time you start your delivery until you release the ball !) It will help your ball slide just a bit further before going into a roll and will also help in maintaing your follow through. In JaMau's case, targeting the breakpoint is good, especially if the lanes have really broken down a lot. I've done this on many occasions when it seemed like the ball started hooking right off of my hand. I find it's easier, sight wise, to keep your target in the 12 - 20 foot range. Give it a try and let us know how you do.

Bob

[Tampabaybob]

dgz924s.........by the way......Should I assume you're a "NOLE"??? My daughter attends FSU !

[dgz924s]

Thanks all for the replies!

I usually always target the same board when I move left. I aim far down the lane, at the break point though. Biggest help to my game was aiming further down the lane.

Sounds like I am not aiming far enough downlane.

Take a piece of paper a cut a half circle. Lay it out on another piece with a makeshift lane drawn on it (doesn't have to be perfect). If you place the circle on the paper so the arc extends through the pocket you can rotate the circle to see how the angle changes to accomplish the same shot. This isn't a true model of how most people bowl but will help you visualize the angle needed to hit the same break point from any board on the lane.

Interesting method. At face value it sounds like a way to see the straight line intersect with the angle(arc) to show the break point(target area). ...If I am understanding you correctly.

This is an execellent trick to have in your bag of tricks. I agree with the comment that you should be using the arrows, because there is less chance of your head moving upon release. I teach the arrows area as your main target. In your case, if, you're using the arrows area, and your ball is coming into the pocket a little too high, move your target spot about 3 feet 'beyond' the arrows. Try to find a definitive spot on the board (arrow) you've been shooting , and use that as a target. (and by the way...do not blink your eyes from the time you start your delivery until you release the ball !) It will help your ball slide just a bit further before going into a roll and will also help in maintaing your follow through. In JaMau's case, targeting the breakpoint is good, especially if the lanes have really broken down a lot. I've done this on many occasions when it seemed like the ball started hooking right off of my hand. I find it's easier, sight wise, to keep your target in the 12 - 20 foot range. Give it a try and let us know how you do.

Bob

Might be on to something here as I generally target the dots at the foul line, then go straight up the board and let the ball do the rest. This though is going to need some practice I'm sure!

dgz924s.........by the way......Should I assume you're a "NOLE"??? My daughter attends FSU !

Yes indeed! My blood type is Garnet and Gold!!

[Tampabaybob]

Good blood type ! I'll have to let my daughter know.

Targeting closer to the foul line CAN help you in a heavier lane oil situation, but with most house putting out a Christmas tree pattern for a THS (typical house shot), your ball conceivably could start hooking up too early. Try the arrows first and move your spot forward and back a little and see what works best for you.

GO NOLES !

Bob

[dgz924s]

Good blood type ! I'll have to let my daughter know.


Targeting closer to the foul line CAN help you in a heavier lane oil situation, but with most house putting out a Christmas tree pattern for a THS (typical house shot), your ball conceivably could start hooking up too early. Try the arrows first and move your spot forward and back a little and see what works best for you.

GO NOLES !

Bob

Your daughter may have a hard time convincing the doctor it is her blood type as I did. But here is the key to winning that arguement. Blood is garnet colored and plasma is gold when separated from the whole blood thus her blood is garnet and gold!....The A-/+ B-/+ etc is just a mere formality!

In regards to the bowling suggestion, the lanes I use are rather of the heavy oil block pattern but I understand the process. Tonight is the last night for the summer and the 4 games do not really count from a standings POV so I may just use this time to get accustomed to these suggestion in practice mode.

One thing for sure what I am trying to accomplish is not going to develop in short order!

Thanks and yes..... GO NOLES!!!

[billf]

Where do you target for your spares?