An early predecessor to the game of bowling was ninepins, which was so popular in the mid-1800s that wealthy families had bowling lanes installed on their estates. However, some states outlawed the game because it encouraged gambling, leading to the development of the modern game of tenpins in an effort to skirt the law.
Dutch, English, and German immigrants all imported their own version of the game of bowling to the United States. One of the earliest American mentions of the game occurs in Washington Irving's story of Rip Van Winkle, who awakens to the very loud sounds of "crashing ninepins."
One of the first recorded permanent American bowling alleys was established in New York City’s Battery area, now the heart of the financial district. This small plot of land is still referred to today as "Bowling Green."
A couple of important developments led to booming times for bowling in the 1950s. First, the automatic pinspotter was invented and widely circulated by AMF, the American Machine and Foundry Company. Second, bowling became a popular sport on television beginning in the 1950s.
In bowling your stance is one of the most important aspects of your game. In fact, your stance, when correct, will determine your strike count and ability to gather spares. A proper stance is one which includes a slight knee bend and an angled-forward spine.
Who’s the best bowler ever? Walter Ray Williams is certainly in the discussion. He won Professional Bowling Association’s Player of the Year award 7 times and is the all-time leading money winner with more than $4 million earned during his bowling career. That included a season high of $421,000 in 2002-03.
English King Edward III banned his troops from lawn bowling because it distracted them from archery practice.
When is the best time to head to the bowling alley? Call your bowling facility in advance to make sure there are open lanes available. Many facilities offer bowling specials – unlimited games for a single price during a specified time period – during certain times of the week.
When it comes to bowling, the way you hold the ball and grip it with your fingers ends up having a huge impact on your game. When you are not at the bowling alley, you can develop finger strength by swinging the ball around using mostly your fingers, arm, and hand.
Releasing the ball is very important. Remember to release the ball only after it's passed over your left foot if you're right handed. This gives you better aim at your target.
Bowlers have long pushed for inclusion in the Olympic Games. Bowling was featured as an exhibition sport in the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea. The sport is on the shortlist for inclusion in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Are you tired of all the time your children spend sitting on the couch playing video games? If you’re looking for a game that will provide some exercise, look no further than bowling.
Ladies, it’s important to remember the mechanics of bowling when choosing your outfit for a date to the bowling alley. While we don’t have a dress code, you’ll be more comfortable in shorts or pants than you will in short skirts.
