My scores for the second week on Chameleon were downright embarrassing. I didn't even break 700 for 4 games, making it my worst series of the PBAX season. It did not help that I was without my eyeglasses, that one lane hooked 4 boards more than the other (typical end pair), the fan was not working on a 90+ degree day, and I was the only one pre-bowling. But, the real problem was inconsistency in my release.

I have come to realize that my attempt at developing a more dynamic release using the flexible Storm Gadget wrist brace over the past couple years, has provided me with a few extra revs and a few moments of glory, but overall my average is down. My release inconsistency is much more evident on the PBAX patterns. The proof for me is switching to my spare ball for strikes and being able to consistently hit the same mark on the lanes and target at the pins (just skids, no carry). That suggests the ball path is fine, it is what I am doing with my wrist, hand, and fingers that is not the same each shot.

One solution would be to practice an hour or more a day to improve the consistency of my release. Maybe someday I will have time for that, but not with my current work schedule. So, instead I plan to start using a rigid wrist brace again, not so much to keep my wrist from opening, but more to keep me from cupping the ball. I still have a Pro Release, but it always had some play in it. So, I am thinking of experimenting with a carpal tunnel wrist brace since they are very good at locking the wrist in an open position.

I am encouraged watching Norm Duke win the PBA Summer King of Swing tournament rolling up the back of the ball on the 52-foot Badger oil pattern. When asked by Randy Pederson how he was able to play so much further right than the other players he said, "Well obviously, I was using a lot less rev rate. So many of the guys are power players. Although I have a little bit of power, the strength in my game is that I can keep it online, and keep the revolutions consistent." That's the key.

When I return from vacation, we will have our first week on Badger. By then, I will have new eyeglasses and a new wrist brace. I am hoping to be able to say along with Duke, straighter is greater.