Ive done found out that my little 195 average wont cut it in the scratch tournaments and I cant seem to do any good in the handicap tournaments around here.

I’ve been shooting our local 9 pin tournament for about a month now.  I realize this isn’t real bowling but there are some definite advantages.  The main one being I have a chance to keep up.

Practice games at my house run $3 a game.  Our 9 pin tournament only costs me $15 and gives me the chance to win something.

The biggest advantage though is all the old guys that bowl this.  It surprises me how they’ll give me any advice I ask for even during the tournament.  All the free coaching I want.  

Even though I like to crank the ball, they are teaching me how to control the ball and keep it in play.  My natural strike percentage has improved on my leagues, spares are a lot simpler.  It seems like I don’t leave as many 2-8-10s.

I still haven’t gotton over the shakes going up against them in the step ladder finals though.  These guys just don’t miss.  All in all though, I think it is good practice in a competive atmosphere.