Expert: Chip Aki - 12/4/2009

Question
I have bowled on wood lanes for about 25 years now.  I'm 34 and decided I want to try different lanes so I went to a different house I'm a right hand bowler and avg 192 and 189 on wood lanes and avg. 164 in syn. lanes.  I would like to go pro maybe in the near future but syn lanes are the worst.  I tried moving up but my ball speed is quick like a softball and I throw a 16 Il. ball.  Are team is in a big tournament this year we are in first but, I really would like to show them I can bowl.  I have huge games this year.  I need help.....  Thanks

Answer
I dont think it is so much the difference between the synthetics and the wood lanes as it is the different lane condition between the two centers.
If it is just the ball speed, then you would need to have a ball with a dull surface, strong core, and strong layout.  That will help you get the ball to go into a roll and not overskid.

Try to watch where the bowlers at the synthetic center are playing the lanes.  If you ball speed is higher than theirs, you will need to probablay play right of where they do.

Good luck,
Chip