Hi guys,


This has to be an easy question to answer.  I know you're not supposed to change the surface of a ball during competition, but what about cleaning the ball?  I had thought it was no problem, as long as it doesn't lead to undue delay of the game (the untimely delay being the real issue).  

This is the situation.  I use a Red Sorcerer and a Pure Hammer, both basic urethane coverstocks.  Not being reactive balls, oil doesn't get sucked into the ball and just stays on the surface.  So, each time before I deliver the ball, I wipe it off with a towel and some alcohol.  It keeps the surface clean and the ball reaction consistent.

I asked the pro guy at my bowling alley if this was okay, and he said it was not.  This seemed quite wrong!  So, I had a look online at the ABC rules and this is what it said:

'Rule 18. Altering the surface of a bowling ball by the use of abrasives while bowling in WIBC/ABC competition is prohibited ... Competition is defined as the remainder of the current game and remaining game(s) in the series being bowled. The use of approved cleaning agents such as isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and polishing machines is permissible.'

My understanding is that this means it's perfectly fine to clean the ball as much as and as often as you wish during a game.  Besides, there doesn't seem to be much difference wiping off a ball with a dry towel and doing it with one with a little alcohol on it!

Am I right and the pro guy wrong?  Just wanting some confirmation.

Thanks in advance!
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Wildcard

"An unpredictable or unforeseeable factor"
(American Heritage Dictionary)

In reference to my scoring

You can clean your ball during competition with any of the approved cleaners, UNLESS the rules of the tournament indicate otherwise.

NOTE that some cleaners are approved for use before or after competition; some are approved for use during competition, like rubbing alcohol.

Personally, I think it's kind of silly to use alcohol every time you wipe off the ball; it's really not necessary. If you have a good absorptive cloth, that will wipe off all the oil. You do run the risk of spilling the alcohol on the floor or over someone else's stuff, if you pour it 30 - 36 times per night ....

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"We get old too fast, and too late, smart."


Edited on 9/27/2004 3:58 PM