Bowling, The Wright Way - June 30, 1997 by Don Wright
Close But No Cigar

I just returned from the ABC Nationals in Huntsville, Alabama and a long overdue vacation and I admit that both were excellent.

The ABC tournament was one of the best I have attended. First, I bowled well, and that may have something to do with it. I guess if I was ever going to have that elusive perfect game it should have happened during my singles event. I started with the first six and with no one to blame but myself, had a bad release in the 7th frame, left the 2-5-10, spared and struck out. One errant shot. But, I put that 277 game with the 222 and 215 and finished with a 714 series. I really felt good and was solid in the pocket every time but the seventh. Oh well, maybe some other time.

In addition to the bowling, I was really pleased with the Heddon Corporation synthetic approaches. I think they are the best I have ever bowled on. They were not too slick, nor too tacky. I didn't like the way they had a pipe coming up on the approach in front of the ball return for the air. I found that many times people were reaching out to dry their hand in front of a bowler on the approach.

Wheeled bags were allowed in the weigh area and paddock. Again, ABC claimed the reason they disallowed them last year was because people were injured falling over them. Ironically, while I was standing at the registration counter talking to an ABC representative, a bowler passed by and was carrying a two ball bag on his shoulder. Just as he got beside me, the strap broke and the balls and bag went crashing to the floor. So much for the safety of carrying straps.

The folks in Huntsville really showed their Southern hospitality and went out of their way to ensure the bowlers had a good time. They can be proud of their city and how they represented themselves as ABC's host.

Where's The Beef?

I don't know how many of you are paying attention to what Brian Voss is doing, but with very little fanfare he is quietly becoming one of bowling's elite. By capturing his 18th title this past weekend he is closing in on such greats as Pete Weber, Mike Aulby and Marshall Holman.

Voss has always been a winner and now that he has signed with Columbia he seems to have it all. He is always in top shape, has a great fundamental game and his equipment seems suited to his style and game.

Bowling, in its never ending quest to improve its image needs to market Voss. His clean cut appearance, healthy life style and athletic ability could benefit him and bowling.