Expert: Chip Aki - 12/22/2006

Question
Hi... I just bought a Roto Grip Venus and I will be getting it next tuesday (december 26). This will be my first reactive ball, and I chose it because I think it fits my actual necessities: I am a novice moving from plastic to reactive; I have been bowling with enthusiasm and more seriously since mid 2006 and my actual ball is a polyester Brunswick Zone finger tiped, with which I am able to do some curve when the lane conditions are right. In a recent aficionado’s league I averaged 146, and my highest score ever is a 235 (off tournament; 210 in the league). I throw the ball soft, at medium speed and medium revs; where I bowl lanes are usually light to medium oiled. So now that I decided to go a step forward with the Venus, I am wondering if you think I made the right decision with it. Another question: which of the drilling patterns you think is appropriate for me? (I just reviewed the pdf in Roto Grip’s page and-without being an expert, of course-find that options B and C would fit my style). I hope you can orient me in this important step.

Greetings and thanks:
Oscar Vazquez (40 years old, right-handed; I hope I gave you important information)

Answer
That looks like a good ball choice.  I have sold several of them and they are a good mid level performance ball that is a great value.
I do not have the layout sheet in front of me, but I would look for a layout that would place the pin near your ring finger and the CG just to the right of the center of your grip.  This will still give you lots of power, but also be the most versatile.  I am sure there will be a time of adjustment, but you will be happy in the long run.

Good luck,
Chip