Expert: Chip Aki - 3/25/2008

Question
I am 47 years old and have been bowling for 31 years.  I have eight sanctioned 300 games.  I use a span of 5 1/16 on my middle finger and 5 1/8 on my ring finger. finger pitches are 3/8 right and left lateral. Thumb pitch is 7/16 reverse and 1/4 right lateral.

    I bowl well when I can throw the ball at my normal speed.(approx. 16 - 17 mph).  When i have to throw the ball slower,I always have trouble staying behind the ball and still getting lift in the ball. (It just rolls off my hand and I can't get any lift on the ball).

I've tried a shorter span and it dosen't seem to do the trick. (My ball fits like a glove, I use my fingers and my thumb on the tight side.

How can I keep this same feel, and still get the ball over the foul line with lift?  

Answer
It doesnt sound like the ball fit is the issue.  When you try to throw the ball slower, it sounds like you slow your swing down, but not the footwork.  This causes you to release the ball sooner than you want to.  Your feet may just be getting to the finish before the ball is.  Try to reduce the effort of your foot work the same as you are reducing the effort of your swing and things should match up much better.

Good luck,
Chip