Expert: - 1/11/2009

Question
I have been bowling for 20 years with a recent return after about a 8 year break, I have always had trouble getting the ball to hook. I recently went to the local proshop and picked up a roto grip sd73 classic, i also throw a storm messenger. i stand on the second dot from the right and throw to the second arrow and have been able to get to the pocket consistently with my messenger but i want to increase my hook for a bigger snap On the back side. I throw the ball around 19mph and rely mostly on lifting through the ball. i have been trying for a while to improve my hook but just cant get it to happen. Is my speed the problem, i have read that the proper speed is where its comfortable i actually feel like i am forcing to throw it slower at around 19 but if i throw harder i cant get any movement. Any tips thanks

Answer
Grant,
The ball needs to transition in the middle portion of the lane (middle 20 feet-or midlane). If your speed has the ball skidding to far, stronger surface will help the ball slow down.

You have the right idea. If your ball goes 19mph comfortably, rough up the cover so it helps slow the ball down. The cover stock (and cover texture) should help you control the front (20 feet - the heads) of the lane.

The ball layout and how you utilize the core for stronger ball reaction helps in the last 20 feet of the lane. The fun part where you get the pins to fall down. Good luck. thanks for the questions.