Expert: Chip Aki - 7/10/2008

Question
On some of the patterns that is used in sports bowling. My son has several different balls and he throws at a speed of about 20-21 mph and alot of revs. All of his balls are dull one has a back end hook and the other straight hook would he need one that has a polish on it. I would like for you to explain to me what a strong and weak drill is. What would you recommend for him.  He is a left handed bowler and sometime it is hard to get an answer. Thank you very much for your time.

Answer
It is always good to have balls with different surfaces.  Dull will hook sooner than the polished.  The polished will have a stronger breakpoint than the dull.
The stronger the layout, the more flare is produced.  This will make a earlier reaction.  The weaker layout will decrease flare and produce a later reaction.

The strength of the layout is determined by pin and cg placement in relationship to the bowlers PAP, or positive axis point.

Good luck,
Chip