QuestionYesterday, during a tournament, we got 10 different answers from 10 "experts." The question is, "Is this a foul?"
A bowler has a 4-step delivery. She is right-handed. On her second step, she catches her toe and begins to tumble. She is a first year bowler who is inexperienced in "bailing out" during an unexpected problem. She attempts to stop her feet. She attempts to stop her swing. As she is falling, she finally lets go of the ball in an effort to minimize injury. The ball continues across the foul line and down the alley. This was due to momentum, NOT any attempt to make a delivery. She is tall and unathletic. Unable to stop her momentum and trying not to injure herself, she continues to try to remain upright. She takes 3 more steps and clearly walks out onto the lane across the foul line.
She made no attempt to deliver the ball. She made every attempt to stop prior to the fall line but only her lack of athleticism, and/or the reaction to avoid injury, took her across the foul line.
Is this a foul????????????
Thanks so much if you can end this argument!!
Eric
Milan, Michigan
Answer
www.TrueBowlerAdjustme
Hi Eric, According to Rule 4 ?Delivering the Ball, and Rule 5.- it is a foul ---- 4. Legal Delivery A delivery is made when the ball leaves the player抯 possession and crosses the foul line into playing territory. Every delivery counts unless a dead ball is declared. Since we are only thinking in terms of human error, and nothing mechanical, the delivery stands. There is no grounds, or bases to declare a dead ball.
In regards to rule 5, she did cross the line for a foul. Unfortunately, if she maintained possession of the ball, she could have been allowed to deliver another throw, even if she had crossed the foul line with the ball in hand. Once she let go, that was a done deal. Doubly so since her momentum carried her over the foul line. - Coach
Check here: http:usbcongress.http.interapcdn.net/usbcongress/bowl/rulebook/2012-2013Rulebook/Rulebook_12-13.pdf
Please see Rules 4 and 5.
Take care.
