Yeah, I know I won't shut up about it, I'm like a freakin chihuahua when I get going on something, I just sit here and quiver with excitement at stuff that wouldn't get so much as a blink out of a ten year old . . Anyway, I'm halfway decent at this ambidextrous stuff, and I'm really kinda peeved that there's a rule against bowling with both hands in the same set. Now, I understand this is most likely for handicapping purposes to prevent sandbagging or average padding. What I was wondering is if the USBC would even consider an amendment to this rule with the following conditions:
Any average compiled where the bowler uses or provides the required documentation stating their intent to use both hands (one at a time, excludes two handed bowling, see applicable rule for two handed bowling for clarification) will be on a scratch basis, waiving any and all handicap typically received in any event or league where handicap is used and applied, unless rule is waived by that specific league or tournament.
Documentation of the bowler's intent to participate in any league or tournament using both hands as described above must be provided along with a copy of the USBC rule stating the above provision, and signed in the presence of a qualifying league/tournament official or local association member upon entry to league/tournament. Failure to do so could result in a loss of all prize monies received for league/tournament.
I know that doesn't help anybody else out there with a lower than scratch average that wants to use both, but then again, I don't know many people who would really want to use both hands other than to improve their average, the sandbaggers already do it with one hand so why spend extra money on equipment and shoes to sandbag with both? I would sincerely like the option available. Say your shot burns up, or say the approach for one hand or the other is tacky or slick, or say your timing is off with one hand, or just think about picking up a 7 or 10 pin with the opposite hand? They can't say it would be an unfair advantage. Guys that rev it more and throw harder than me have an advantage on a house shot already, or guys that are more accurate . . the rule does open things wide up for anybody who wants to add the skill. Kinda feel like it's unfairly limiting. ESPECIALLY with leagues or tournaments that are already bowled scratch.
But yes, I get that if somebody really wants to take it that serious, why not just go pro? I think that's kind of a dumb question though, gotta practice it in "cheaper" environments and work up from there first. How would I go about petitioning for the rule addition? And who else has additional ideas or positive or negative points on this? I'm sure I don't have it all thought through.
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This is Fluffy. He is the Destroyer of Worlds.