Getting back into bowling after a 19 year absence

ROHfan

So last year I went to a bowling fundraiser with my daughter's travel softball team and I managed to squeak out two 200+ games and a 180-something. I haven't been bowling since my kids were born but it ignited a little spark, nonetheless.

Last weekend we had another fundraiser but this time I couldn't get my timing down and I was dropping the ball. Out of the four games I rolled, maybe four deliveries felt not horrible. I decided that I needed a new ball if I was to move forward, seeing that my old ball (AMF Nitro) has no reaction left it in. I've got lots of work to do to get back into form. In my heyday I was a high 190's league bowler and won a few tourneys, but I think I could be much better these days.

I don't know where to begin with the balls these days. They have ones that are scent-impregnated, even. Does anyone know what the current "hot" balls are now?

ken brydson

ROHfan wrote: »

I don't know where to begin with the balls these days. They have ones that are scent-impregnated, even. Does anyone know what the current "hot" balls are now?

I have no words....

gdb

Big balls or, little balls ?

ROHfan

xcapri79 wrote: »

http://www.real-world-physics-problems.com/physics-of-bowling.html

That one's a good read. The other one is kind of rudimentary, but is good for someone who never picked up a bowling ball before.

gudnoyez

Take it from these guys King pin the best bowling movie ever

WLDock

ROHfan wrote: »

..... They have ones that are scent-impregnated, even.

Yes they do. I got my wife the majestic purple and Ivory Tropical Storm ball with a "Cheesecake" fragrance.


For myself, I got a Roto Grip Dark Star. I had orange grips put in just like this:


We are not great bowlers and were on a league for a little while. We wanted to just get out and have some fun. I moved a few years ago and have not bowled much but went out not too long ago with co-workers. I would like to get into it again myself. The equipment we got was purchased about 4-5 yrs ago and is not the most advanced out there. However with purchasing through sites like www.bowlingball.com and getting the balls drilled locally we saved a bit. Also, I found some awesome closeout deals on Dexter Shoes on http://www.shoeline.com/Brand/Dexter Bowling. The wife and her good friend, who is a very good bowler, are both Lefties. They had $150-$250 Dexter Left Handed shoes for like $20-$30 a pair! I bought both of them three pairs each of different styles! Overall, I went all out for the Mrs. and I, two balls, shoes, double ball rolling bag, wrist support, microfiber towels, rosin, grip tape, shirts, etc...

tophatjohnny

My son "Zach" , (now a 20 year old Marine) was Ohio's HS bowler on the year as a junior in HS, has several 300 rings, 2 800 series rings and now hardly ever picks up a ball?? Man, he had so many pro bowlers in his ear telling him he was on his way to being one of the greats and then The Marine bug got to him. He still managed to bowl on a league while training in FL and was yanked over to a team with all officers which took first place in some sort of contest they were having over all other branches, but as of late, he seems to have zero interest?? Saddens me a little. anyway, here's a video of him at 16 1/2 years young in action.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKWS-E97O8E

polrbehr

The kid could definitely bring it, he's playing a line I would've used for making a 10 pin! LOL
Bill one of these days we should meet up at Sayville, I haven't been bowling in an eternity either but used to be right around you when I was in a league.

ROHfan

Top hat, I really like your kid's fluid approach. That's the hook pattern I'm looking for this time around. The lane he's playing on has a typical recreational block oil pattern that's usually found on league night. I was always more of a stroker (quiet, Ken B.) but I'm going to change everything this time around, including getting rid of the wrist brace which I always saw as a crutch.

Harry, wifey and I used to go see the PBA stop at Sayville every year. We loved it! We were very big into bowling back then and our bags were always in the car with us. I'd love to roll a few with you. In fact, I'm heading out to Patchogue today to get hooked up with a new ball and equipment bag. I'll be there about 2 if you'd like to join me.

teekay0007

tophatjohnny wrote: »

My son "Zach" , (now a 20 year old Marine) was Ohio's HS bowler on the year as a junior in HS, has several 300 rings, 2 800 series rings and now hardly ever picks up a ball?? Man, he had so many pro bowlers in his ear telling him he was on his way to being one of the greats and then The Marine bug got to him. He still managed to bowl on a league while training in FL and was yanked over to a team with all officers which took first place in some sort of contest they were having over all other branches, but as of late, he seems to have zero interest?? Saddens me a little. anyway, here's a video of him at 16 1/2 years young in action.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKWS-E97O8E

He looks to be really good, Johnny! Where did that come from? Did you teach him?

Is that you beatin' the skins on the background soundtrack of the video?

ROHfan

I wound up buying a Hammer Absolut Hook. Got it at the pro shop inside Bowl Long Island's center for $119. Not bad considering the price includes all drilling, finger tip inserts, and free lessons. Didn't want to spend a lot on my first one coming back because I have to work on my approach and get the release down. All the equipment in the world doesn't matter until I have a good foundation.

Anyway, the ball hooks nice, with a long, smooth sweep that's very predictable. Once I get my chops back I'll probably graduate to a more aggresive ball and a polished ball in case the lanes break down. Thanks for all the comments.

WastelandWand'r

In closing, many people mistake bowling for a leisurely pastime when in truth many are fine athletes. I have found them second only to pro ice fisherman. With that in mind, do not neglect proper preparation. I would recommend, if you have been away as long as you say, to drink no more than 1/2 pitcher of beer before beginning. Like anything, you lose your level of abilities without constant practice. May not realize it, hence the warning. As your abilities return to their previous levels feel free to increase your level of preparation.
N

ROHfan

Thanks, Wasteland. I do not drink, but I appreciate your dubious concern for my pre-game preparation. It seems like you have your routine down.

WastelandWand'r

ROH,
I do what I can.
Now get your bowl on.

ken brydson

WastelandWand'r wrote: »

ROH,
I do what I can.
Now get your beer on.

Fixed it for ya...

starkiller

Use to bowl in several leagues including a men's one and had an average of around the mid 190's. Now I haven't bowled for at least 20 years and would also like to get back into it. Back then my bowling balls of choice was a LT-48 and Columbia Yellow Dot...yep...many many moons ago.