Expert: Chip Aki - 11/13/2006

Question
Yes, pin is to the right of middle finger hole.

I had to move left since I get less hook from the ball than I used to.  I used to stand in the center of the lane on the approach and aim for the middle of the second and third arrows.  Now I stand approximately 5 boards left of center and aim for the same spot.  Hence, a much straighter shot less angle of attack on the 1-2 pocket.  I miss the action I used to get.  : (

I am also told that other bowlers using plastic balls on the synthetic lanes is pushing oil furthur down the lane.  I am also being told to slow down my ball speed.  I don't throw the ball that fast in my opinion.  

I am trying an old Ebonite Tidal Wave tonight during practice to see what my shot looks like with this ball.
It is also a heavier ball (15 to 16 lbs) which will slow my ball speed down I am sure.

I am thinking of getting a new ball but am also trying to learn about the different drilling patterns that are available to use.

Thanks for the help....
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
I have an Ebonite Apex Addiction that I bought from a friend and had it drilled to fit me by a local bowling establishment.  I am a lefty and the pin is to the right of my finger holes.  I bowled last season on real wood lanes and finished out the year with a 189 average.  This year my average is down to 183 but my concern is a lot of the bowlers in the league are seeing average increases.  Many of the bowlers are also using plastic balls since it is a mixed league.  I am looking for suggestions on how to increase my chances of better scoring or is this to be expected ?
-----Answer-----
The pin is located to the right of your middle finger hole?

What is the ball doing different on the synthetics than it did on the wood?

It may be the lane conditioner is applied in a different pattern at the new center than the old one.

Chip

Answer
If you are lefthanded, the pin should be to the left of your ring finger to give you the best reaction.  With the pin to the right of your middle finger, the pin will be in or near your track which will lessen the potential of the ball.  I would imagine your tidal wave will work much better if the pin is near your ring finger.

Good luck,
Chip