A number of years ago, there were some tournaments sponsored by AMF and held in Richmond, VA. The finals were in an arena with the top four bowling a round-robin format. A vs. B and C vs. D with the winner of each match getting bonus points. The two matches were played at the same time on the adjoining pairs of lanes so there was constant action. After the first pair of matches they would rotate with A vs. C and B vs. D. Next it would be A vs. D and B vs. C.
Each bowler's three game total plus bonus pins determined standings with the top two bowling a one game match for the title. The other bowlers received third and fourth place. As an extra incentive during the week, the top seed going into the finals would get choice of lanes on the show (this was done because there were a lot of complaints from bowlers who lead the tournament by a large margin all week and then lost a one game match for the title).
With this format, you got to see four bowlers bowl at least three games each. The top two bowled four games (more air time for the bowlers). There was constant action with two matches going on simultaneously. There was incentive to post as high a score as possible even if you were shut out because the winner of the other match might end up with less even with bonus pins.
I really looked forward to seeing this tournament when it came around. I hope the PBA will consider doing something similar again.
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____________________________________________How about a little cheese to go with all of that WHINE !!!