Post by: n00dlejester on July 28, 2009, 03:07:57 AM
I am doing my first regional soon! I was wondering 2 things for those who have experience:
1) Just general pointers and advice
2) Where on EARTH do I get a shirt with my name on it? lol
Thanks!
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Proud Supporter of Rob Stone
Obviously, you aren''t a golfer.
Some stayed in the foothills, some washed logs like teeth.
Post by: Sean John 369 on July 28, 2009, 11:13:02 AM
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It aint how, it's how many. Shut up and bowl!!
Paul Murchison
Post by: 300 dan on July 28, 2009, 11:17:48 AM
Post by: Gene J Kanak on July 28, 2009, 11:24:00 AM
1) Don't bring 45 bowling balls with you. If you bowl well, you'll most likely use 3-4 tops. Go to practice with all of the balls you think may work for the pattern you'll be on. Once practice is over, you should be able to eliminate at least a few choices.
2) Use the practice session as a guideline only, but don't get married to the notion that the lanes will play the same way come squad time. They often play somewhat different.
3) Don't be afraid to go outside the box in terms of how you attempt to play the pattern. Sure, there are tendencies to be found in terms of how and where you should start most of the time, but those are just guidelines. Use your eyes to determine what will work and what won't. Also, be sure to pay attention to where and how others are playing the lanes with success. If you and your pair-mates can hook up and break the pattern down together, you can create a really nice look.
4) Play your own game. You're a bowler, and all you're doing is bowling. If you win, you're not going to be rich and famous. If you stink it up, you're not going to be shunned and kicked out of the sport. Just bowl like you always bowl, and let the results take care of themselves. Don't get caught up in the fact that it's a PBA event.
5) Read up on and understand PBA lane courtesy. Nothing gets a veteran on your tail quicker than consistently double-jumping.
As far as the shirt thing goes, there are several places you can go, depending on how much time you have. You can order embroidered shirts from certain online retailers, but you can usually also get them done locally. Call the local high school to find out where they get their uniforms done. Those places almost always do that sort of thing as well. If not, call tailor shops and/or screen printing places.
Good luck, and remember to have fun! It's just bowling.
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Bowling bad since 1979 with no end in sight
http://members.bowl.com/SearchUSBC/ViewMember.aspx?prefix=519&suffix=9130
Edited on 7/28/2009 11:26 AM
Post by: Xcessive_Evil on July 28, 2009, 11:24:07 AM
quote:
nOOdlejester, talk to some of the regular regional players most will be more than glad to help newbies. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Make you sure you understand and follow the double jump rule. Check in your area for embroidery shops , if only getting one shirt done it will cost you a little more. Hope all this helps don't expect to much from your first one have fun.
I agree. Especially with the double jumping rule-it really does irritate some of the bowlers, but not many.
Also, the regional is neither won or lost after the first game. If you throw a bad shot or a bad game, JUST LET IT GO. Out of the few I've been in, I've seen many shoot 250+, then shoot like 170 the next and vice versa. During the practice session, see where others who have a style similar to yours are playing. However, the lanes always seem to be a bit different between practice and competition. Don't go in with one set plan, but have at least a few good ideas. Most importantly, relax and enjoy it.
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You may be the better bowler, but my car would blow the doors off of yours.
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v690/Phoenix_RsX/Arsenal/
Post by: snowspike1 on July 28, 2009, 01:04:42 PM
Post by: charlest on July 28, 2009, 01:25:21 PM
Good luck, of course.
Which one are you going to: Bayshore, NY York, PA Middletown, DE or Turnersville, NJ ?
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"None are so blind as those who will not see."
Post by: n00dlejester on July 28, 2009, 02:24:13 PM
I'm going to be doing the one out in York, PA on the Cheetah. And depending on how well that goes, I might do the one in Turnersville. But first thing's first, and that's getting some experience.
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Proud Supporter of Rob Stone
Obviously, you aren't a golfer.
Some stayed in the foothills, some washed logs like teeth.
Post by: al_g on July 28, 2009, 02:34:09 PM
I'm tempted to try my first one in a couple of months. There's two that will be within 2 hours of where I live.
Post by: n00dlejester on July 28, 2009, 05:06:22 PM
I'm really excitedQUESTION: I use a bionic wrist, the Mongoose "Lifter" I do NOT see any bionic wrists on the approved gear list on pba.com. Would anybody know where the list of that would be? If I can't use this, I want to get a Robby's Revs thingy.
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Proud Supporter of Rob Stone
Obviously, you aren't a golfer.
Some stayed in the foothills, some washed logs like teeth.
Post by: DON DRAPER on July 28, 2009, 09:14:44 PM
1) make sure your arsenal of bowling balls is complete( very dull to highly polished ).
2) pay close attention to when it's your turn to bowl.....be ready ! pay particular attention to the "double jump" rule. failing to abide by this will get you a dirty look at a minimum......you could get cussed out.
3) play your game.....don't try and be someone you're not.
4) look and act the part of a professional......there will be people watching you.
Post by: charlest on July 28, 2009, 09:31:32 PM
quote:
Al - I'll be sure to tell a lovely tale about it
QUESTION: I use a bionic wrist, the Mongoose "Lifter" I do NOT see any bionic wrists on the approved gear list on pba.com. Would anybody know where the list of that would be? If I can't use this, I want to get a Robby's Revs thingy.
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Proud Supporter of Rob Stone
Obviously, you aren't a golfer.
Some stayed in the foothills, some washed logs like teeth.
Here's a/the PBA approved equipment list.
http://www.pba.com/resources/equipmentSponsors.asp?Type=1
To the right of each name is the underlined word, Equipment. CLick on that and it lists all the equipment from that company that you're allowed to use.
I don't see Mongoose on it.
Unless it's under anothe rname, all accessories seem to be listed. Many have chosen not to participate, like Robby's, Masters and Linds.--------------------
"None are so blind as those who will not see."
Edited on 7/28/2009 9:39 PM
Post by: n00dlejester on July 28, 2009, 09:36:30 PM
quote:
Here's a/the PBA approved equipment list.
http://www.pba.com/resources/equipmentSponsors.asp?Type=1
I don't see Mongoose on it.
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"None are so blind as those who will not see."
I don't even see the Robby's line of bionic wrists on it. That's weird.
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Proud Supporter of Rob Stone
Obviously, you aren't a golfer.
Some stayed in the foothills, some washed logs like teeth.
Post by: Dgeoe on July 28, 2009, 09:47:51 PM
Post by: J_Mac on July 28, 2009, 09:59:24 PM
quote:quote:
Here's a/the PBA approved equipment list.
http://www.pba.com/resources/equipmentSponsors.asp?Type=1
I don't see Mongoose on it.
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I don't even see the Robby's line of bionic wrists on it. That's weird.
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Robby's is approved through Ebonite...
quote:
Full Registration: Balls, Apparel and Accessories - includes Robby's
A full-line manufacturer of balls, bags, gloves and accessories, Ebonite led professional bowling in titles last year.
Post by: BrianCRX90 on July 28, 2009, 10:47:21 PM
Post by: Nicanor on July 29, 2009, 09:16:51 AM
So if you're not already familar with the double jump rule, I would recommend getting familiar with it very quickly so it becomes natural to you.
Good luck.
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Nicanor (Ten On The Deck)
Edited on 7/29/2009 9:19 AM
Edited on 7/29/2009 9:20 AM
Post by: tommymo on July 29, 2009, 09:33:27 AM
You're not there to "show" these guys anything. Don't try to be someone you're not. Play your game and don't be afraid to talk to the guys on you're crossing with. Most of them are very nice and have some funny stories and a lot of insight on the game. I was able to pick some of their brains and ask for some advice. Go in with no expectations. Be a sponge and absorb everything. And don't just give up if you struggle. I hate seeing most of our "house" bowlers just going through the motions because they are -120 after 5 games and the cut is +80 or so. This is your chance to learn, what you learn now could mean the difference in making the cut next time.
Have fun, stay positive and remember that you're a professional too. Act like it.
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Becoming a father isn't difficult, But it's very difficult to be a father.
10/21/05 Kaitlyn Emily and 02/01/07 Meghan Alexis, Daddy's little girls!
R.I.P Kevin Trombley 11/26/05 You were taken too soon!
Visionary Test Staff Member 07/08
Frankie May Gryphon
Immortal Pearl
Ogre Pearl
B/G Centaur
Post by: janderson on July 29, 2009, 04:13:03 PM
quote:
if you break a rule your going to get fined.
Excellent point and advice I give to anyone bowling a regional (other than what has already been stated): guest are subject to fines as per the same rules as the PBA members. Make sure all of your equipment is legal and you understand the rules regarding noting your equipment on the score sheets, which of your lane parters' scores you are responsible for, smoking/drinking in the bowling center, coaching, lane courtesy, and withdrawing. Those are the rules most different from other tournaments.
Someone else please chime in if you've seen a gotcha.
On the lane courtesy, I've noticed that most guys will wait their turn as they should, but if you're not ready to go when it is your turn, they get more upset than if you walk up on them.
Good luck, bowl well, and make your spares.
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J.J. "Better than Jello" Anderson - Kill the back row
Post by: BrianCRX90 on July 29, 2009, 04:58:39 PM
Basically from observation on the pair courtesy is you stand on the pair you are about to bowl. First thing is, be prepared when your name is up. Don't go to the snack bar, don't chat with David Traber about race cars, don't wonder off...etc. When you are ready, pick up your ball then look a pair to your left and to your right. If for some reason it looks like another bowler is going to step up first, pay attention or just make the first move and go up there. However, do not do what league bowlers (some league bowlers) and step on the approach before you have the ball and certianly don't wait on the approach for your second ball. Never double jump like a overated league bowler or open play teenager and grab another ball off the rack and shoot your spare right away. That is doublejumping, a term many in my leagues seriously are too dumb to understand...or maybe they do and just don't care.
Post by: Steven on July 29, 2009, 07:17:18 PM
quote:
If for some reason it looks like another bowler is going to step up first, pay attention or just make the first move and go up there.
Actually, this isn't accurate. Here is the exact description from the PBA website:
quote:
A “Double Jump†occurs when, following another player’s delivery on your pair, you step onto the approach before one (1) competitor on the pair to your left and one (1) competitor on the pair to the right have thrown a shot.
In other words, you have to be paying attention before it's your turn to be sure you're going up in the right order. You just don't "make the first move and go up there" because it looks convenient.
It flows well once you're in rhythm and paying attention. It was a little awkward in my first regional, but you get used to it quick. If you do double jump, you will most likely be called on the carpet. Hopefully it will be by another player who is polite instead of someone looking to rip another hole in you.
Post by: supersid802 on July 29, 2009, 11:17:26 PM
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.........im amazing.......
Post by: Xcessive_Evil on July 29, 2009, 11:50:53 PM
quote:
My first regional was a great expereince. The double jump rule is the thing that got me. I understood it and followed it, but towards the end of the day when people are mad or upset about scores people tend to just run up there and fire away not caring about the people around them or rules. Other than that have fun and be ready for actual transition from people playing lanes correctly, not like in the PBAx expereince league where people are playing deep, up five, or anywhere between
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.........im amazing.......
Definitely, the last one I went to there was a guy all sorts of ballistic about someone who apparently double jumped. Come to find out this guy was like -150 after 6.
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You may be the better bowler, but my car would blow the doors off of yours.
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v690/Phoenix_RsX/Arsenal/
Post by: n00dlejester on August 10, 2009, 09:50:27 AM
So the pattern was on the Cheetah, the new 35 foot one. This pattern on whatever lane surface it was (I couldn't tell if it was newer or older Pro AnvilLane) created a whole crapload of hook. Very fun, lol. I bowled the A squad. I started off going 167, 246, 160. I wasn't too bummed, because I had a decent look but my spares were pretty light and I had a few pocket splits (4-9's mainly). Then the next five games I went 214, 226, 225, 228, 218. I was very proud of how well I stayed on top of transitions and the differences from pair to pair. I missed a few easy spares in there, but also made a few wild ones (including the Greek Churhc! lol). All in all, I was very proud of my bowling, ended up +84 and cashed by 1 pin, lol.
On my pair were a bunch of characters. One guy kind of had a holier than thou attitude, and the other two were quiet but really nice and helpful for me. They taught me the double-jump rule, and it is by far the best courtesy rule ever. I only ever jumped one person, and it wasn't until the 5th game and he was really nice about it. One thing did leave a bad taste in my mouth though, I had a ball on one of the chairs near the back of the tables - I was going to throw it on my fill shot just to see what it would do. But the guy with an attitude bowled really badly that game, and decided he wanted to sit where my ball was. So he waited until I was on teh approach, and he took my ball and just dropped it onto the floor. I thought that was pretty rude and he could have went about that a bit more maturely. But all things considered, not a really bad thing to happen.
During the B squad, I was hanging out with a few familiar faces that were bowling, and a few of the guys who stuck around from A squad started chatting with me and were helping me with some gear and equipment questions. They were very nice and all in all, I look forward to doing another one.
Thanks to everyone with the advice, I kept in mind to just have fun and remember it's only a game, and that really helped me have fun with it after my crappy games and it ended up earning me a check. Good times, and definitely great oldies.
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Proud Supporter of Rob Stone
Obviously, you aren't a golfer.
Some stayed in the foothills, some washed logs like teeth.
Post by: charlest on August 10, 2009, 10:03:25 AM
Cashing in your first is a major accomplishment. Not pissing off any of the prima donnas is another.
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"None are so blind as those who will not see."
Post by: CharlieBrown on August 10, 2009, 10:57:11 AM
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I'm a THS hack and a ball junkie.
Post by: themagician on August 10, 2009, 11:08:40 AM
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BowlingChat.net (http://"http://www.bowlingchat.net")
Post by: Mike Austin on August 10, 2009, 12:09:33 PM
Way to hang in there mentally and finish the block strong. A good experience that you should be able to use for confidence in the future. I can still remember my first one, about 23 years ago!! Nice job!!
Good luck to ya....
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Lane #1
Post by: al_g on August 10, 2009, 02:00:43 PM
And thanks for sharing your experience.
Post by: Danes07 on August 10, 2009, 02:31:29 PM
What I like the most is that after bowling a couple of medicore games you didn't get down on yourself and came back and fired a bunch of a good games right in a row to get yourself into it...a lot of guys wouldn't have done that...I really applaud that!!!
I will say though, that if someone had just dropped one of my bowling balls on the floor, he definitely would have gotten a piece of my mind. I credit you on being the bigger man, but that would have torqued me....there definitely would have been some words spoken.
Congratulations though...hope you keep bowling well in any more regionals you bowl in!!!!
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University at Albany 2007
-Let's Go Danes-
ROTO GRIP - King of Them All
STORM - The Bowlers Company
Harry E. Inglis 3/31/1915 - 2/3/2009
Post by: Xcessive_Evil on August 10, 2009, 02:50:02 PM
) And you cashed? Doesn't get much better than that!--------------------
You may be the better bowler, but my car would blow the doors off of yours.
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v690/Phoenix_RsX/Arsenal/
Post by: Spider Ball Bowler on August 10, 2009, 02:56:56 PM
Actually afterwards I got a call from the Brunswick guys and they asked me never to throw their equipment again!! (I was using an Ultimate Inferno) Good ball choice for a hooking pattern eh? lol.
Again congrats that's awesome and hopefully you will continue to bowl more. Obviously that shows you can hang, so keep it going!!!
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Ahhh Disco Biscuits!
Post by: mikeywg on August 10, 2009, 03:25:47 PM
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300 x 8 800 x 2 815 & 825 & 827
Proud new owner of lane #1
Buzzsaw C/2
Cobalt Bomb
Black Cherry Bomb
And the almighty
SUPERNOVA XP
The BUZZBOMB is Da-Bomb.
Post by: BrianCRX90 on August 10, 2009, 08:43:39 PM
quote:
All I can say is once you get used to the double jump courtesy...you'll realize how much league bowlers have no idea of whose turn it is. lol
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Dave Roberts Jr
Track staffer
Bowl-T's Pro Shop, imperial. MO
Ya really. I just got back from a South West regional in Plano and really appeared to me isn't like the PBA tour. The rule may still apply but there was a couple near double jumpingings' going on but there was some nods of bowlers telling them to go ahead and I didn't see any hostility towards it. The pair lane courtesy only works when things are in synch. But take a bowler that is not paying attention, a lane malfunction or human error it will happen. The problem also arises when like 3 bowlers across pairs pick balls looking like they are ready to go and there can be come confusion who should go. To me I'd just relax and just go with it.
As for the action it was quite enjoyable to watch. Perhaps I will be decent enough and have funds to try it next year since I'm finally eligible but I'm no where close in talent yet I feel I can cash and if I can't cash why bother spending 200 something dollars. I wouldn't be there to win, just to profit...course I'll win if they let me....
As for the regional I went to I saw a decent shot on the Viper and to me you could play the same line nearly all day if you could get it and carry was pretty good if you did that right with other things. Disappointing thing I saw was way too many missed spares and single pin spares including a guy I saw miss two 5 pins.
Post by: Jay on August 10, 2009, 10:48:26 PM
When you double jumped, was it an error on your part such as just not concentrating or was it something else? As for the butt that dropped your ball, I admit that would be annoying, but as long as I wasn't the one that had to retrieve it, it's not really a big deal considering what a ball goes through going down the lane and through the pindeck.
Post by: n00dlejester on August 11, 2009, 03:35:16 PM
For the double-jump question: I made a mistake and got a little antsy so I jumped up on a guy to my right. I stepped off immediately and regrouped, and we both buried a strike lol. So no harm no foul there.
For the $$$ question: Since I was a guest, I bowled for $285 and cashed in for $400. Kinda wild because I kissed that entry fee good bye a long time ago, lol.
I think what really kept my head in it was what one of the guys said to me after I made my Greek Church: "You never know when you'll need those pins at the end of the day." It's a marathon, not a sprint, and that helped a ton.
All in all, a very fun time and I think sometime in the winter, I'm going to give my chance at another regional and see how I stack up. I'm sad there's no more PBAx leagues after summer time, but I can only practice as much as possible and hope for the best.
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Proud Supporter of Rob Stone
Obviously, you aren't a golfer.
Some stayed in the foothills, some washed logs like teeth.
Post by: n00dlejester on August 11, 2009, 03:38:26 PM
quote:
Cashing in your first regional....Well Done!!!!
What I like the most is that after bowling a couple of medicore games you didn't get down on yourself and came back and fired a bunch of a good games right in a row to get yourself into it...a lot of guys wouldn't have done that...I really applaud that!!!
I will say though, that if someone had just dropped one of my bowling balls on the floor, he definitely would have gotten a piece of my mind. I credit you on being the bigger man, but that would have torqued me....there definitely would have been some words spoken.
Congratulations though...hope you keep bowling well in any more regionals you bowl in!!!!
--------------------
University at Albany 2007
-Let's Go Danes-
ROTO GRIP - King of Them All
STORM - The Bowlers Company
Harry E. Inglis 3/31/1915 - 2/3/2009
I was talking with a few folks I know who do regionals fairly often, and apparently the dude who had a chip on his shoulder is infamous for it. It's unfortunate, but the dude's won a few of these things. I guess when you're expectations are high and you're getting beaten by a guest, it can irk you a bit
Next time something like that happens I probably will say something.--------------------
Proud Supporter of Rob Stone
Obviously, you aren't a golfer.
Some stayed in the foothills, some washed logs like teeth.