Expert: Chip Aki - 8/28/2006

Question
The axis of rotation of my ball does not seem to change drastically as it nears the pocket.  I have seen bowlers whose ball seems to "flip" as it nears the pocket and pick up speed.  The pin reaction is double what my pins do.  Is this due to ball configuration, drilling, mechanics or a combination?

Answer
It could be a combination, but mechanics will be the biggest difference.  Someone that gets around the ball more, like Pete Weber, will have more backend reaction than someone that comes straight up the back of the ball, which would be more like Walter Ray Williams, Jr..  The next factor would be the coverstock of the ball.  A solid or particle coverstock will not have as much flip potential as a pearl or shiny coverstock.  The layout will have the least affect on the ball.

Have someone watch your release and tell you where your fingers are at the release point and if there is a clockwise or counterclockwise move of your hand.

Good luck,
Chip