Feature flashback: An inside look at how pro bowling manages lane conditions

This feature appeared in the Arizona Daily Star in June 2001.

PBA SENIOR OPEN

When the pros toil, it boils down to oil

By Ed Odeven

So you want to be a professional bowler?

Strikes and spares seem to come as easy for you as world titles do for boxer Oscar De La Hoya?

Realistically, “turning pro” may not be as simple as it sounds.

Sandy Curtis, the director of the Professional Bowlers Association Senior Tour, said amateurs need ample time to adjust to competing against the world’s premier pros.

“You cannot judge by one tournament whether you’re going to be a success or failure on the tour because the conditions are not like at home,” Curtis said, referring to one’s regular bowling alley.

“So if you come out the first week and bowl really bad that shouldn’t be your determination if you are going to compete (at this level).”