Discover the Unique Fun of Candlepin Bowling
In New England, a special bowling style has captured the hearts of many. It’s called candlepin bowling. This sport started in Massachusetts and has its own unique features. It uses taller, thinner pins and a small ball without holes for fingers.
This makes candlepin bowling different from the usual ten-pin bowling. It’s a true treasure in New England, loved by locals and visitors.
Key Takeaways:
- Candlepin bowling is a unique variation of bowling found primarily in the New England region.
- It features taller and skinnier pins, as well as smaller, fingerless balls, creating a distinct gameplay experience.
- The sport has a rich history, with the first candlepin bowling alley dating back to 1917.
- Candlepin bowling is known for its social and nostalgic aspects, drawing in both casual and competitive players.
- The sport’s technical challenges and skills required make it a unique and rewarding experience for bowlers of all levels.
What Makes Candlepin Bowling Special
Candlepin bowling is a unique twist on the classic bowling game, deeply rooted in New England. It uses smaller balls and slender pins, making it more challenging and rewarding for players.
Key Differences from Traditional Ten-Pin
The main difference is the size and weight of the equipment. Candlepin balls are 4.5 inches (11.43 cm) in diameter and weigh up to 2 lbs 7 oz. This is much lighter than ten-pin balls. The pins are also taller and thinner, standing at 15.75 inches (40.0 cm) high and 2+15⁄16 inches (74.6 mm) in diameter.
The Massachusetts Origins
Candlepin bowling was created in the 1880s in Worcester, Massachusetts, by Justin White. John J. “Jack” Monsey later standardized the game, establishing the “National Duckpin and Candlepin Congress” to regulate it. This came before ten-pin bowling was standardized in 1895.
Understanding the Equipment
The design of the candlepin bowling ball and pins makes the game harder. The pins are shaped like candles and can weigh up to 2 lb 8 oz each. The balls are also small, with a diameter of 4.5 inches (11 cm) and a maximum weight of 2 lb 7 oz.
These unique features make candlepin bowling challenging and appealing to both experienced players and newcomers.
The Rich History of New England’s Favorite Bowling Sport
Candlepin bowling has a long history in New England, especially in Massachusetts. It started before ten-pin bowling became standard in 1895. For generations, it has been a favorite activity, with alleys like Bowlaway in Needham, MA, open since 1917.
In the early 20th century, candlepin bowling became a challenge for ten-pin bowling fans in New England5. It began in 1880 in Worcester, Massachusetts, by Justin “Pop” White4. The National Duckpin and Candlepin Congress was formed in 1906 to oversee the game and leagues in Worcester.
Candlepin bowling stands out with its special equipment and scoring. The pins are 15 3/4 inches tall and 3 inches wide, much smaller than ten-pin pins5. Players use three small balls, 4 1/2 inches in diameter, making the game a test of skill, not just strength5.
Despite its challenges, candlepin bowling remains popular in New England. Alleys like Boston Bowl in Massachusetts and Dover Bowl in New Hampshire keep the tradition alive4.
| Bowling Center | Location | Offerings |
|---|---|---|
| Boston Bowl | Massachusetts | 24-hour tenpin and candlepin bowling |
| Dover Bowl | New Hampshire | 22 tenpin lanes, 4 new candlepin alleys, laser tag, bumper cars, bar |
| North Star | Vermont | 6 candlepin lanes, rebuilt after Tropical Storm Irene in 2011 |
| The Big 20 Bowling Center | Maine | Hosted 3 world championships, inducted into Candlepin Hall of Fame in 1980 |
| Bowling Acres | New Hampshire | 10 lanes, arcade, grill with pizza, bar food, and cold beer |
| 33 Elmwood | Maine | Bocce lanes, restaurant with fish tacos and steak frites |
The Big 20 Bowling Center in Maine and 33 Elmwood in Maine show the enduring appeal of candlepin bowling. This sport has been a cherished tradition in New England for over a century.
Essential Equipment and Pin Setup
Candlepin bowling has its own special gear, unlike ten-pin bowling. The balls are small, like a grapefruit, and don’t have finger holes. They weigh about 2 lb 7 oz and are 4.5 inches in diameter.
The pins in candlepin bowling are tall and thin, over 15 ¾ inches high. They are 3 inches in diameter and weigh 2 lb 8 oz each. This is different from duckpin pins, which are shorter and heavier.
The lanes for candlepin bowling are 41 inches wide and 60 feet long. They have 10 pins set up for each of the 10 frames. This is similar to duckpin lanes but different from ten-pin lanes.
| Equipment | Candlepin | Duckpin | Tenpin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balls per frame | 3 | 3 | 2 |
| Pin height | 15+ ¾” | 9+ ½” | Standard |
| Pin diameter | 3″ | 1+ ⅜” base, 4+ ⅛” belly | Standard |
| Pin weight | 2 lb 8 oz | 1 lb 8 oz | Standard |
| Ball diameter | 4.5″ | 4+ ¾” to 5″ | Standard |
| Ball weight | 2 lb 7 oz | 3 lb 6 oz to 3 lb 12 oz | Standard |
| Lane dimensions | 41″ W x 60′ L | 41″ W x 60′ L | 41″ W x 60′ L |
| Pins per frame | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Frames per game | 10 | 10 | 10 |
The special equipment in candlepin bowling makes it unique. From the small balls and tall pins to the lane setup, it’s a favorite in New England.
Mastering Candlepin Bowling Techniques
Candlepin bowling is different from traditional ten-pin bowling. It uses a “chucking” style, a mix of a roll and a throw. This style is key to the game. The small ball can easily go between pins without knocking them down. So, players need to be very accurate and consistent.
The bowling pocket’s position is very important. Right-handed bowlers aim for the 1-3 pins, while left-handed bowlers aim for the 1-2 pins. The pocket’s location changes based on ball speed and rev rate. Faster balls and higher rev rates make the pocket move down the lane.
Having the right wrist position and a strong follow-through is crucial. The wrist should be slightly cupped, and fingers should go into the ball up to the first knuckle. Release the ball at the bottom of the swing for the best accuracy. Keeping your body aligned towards the target is also important for a consistent release.
Learning these techniques can help players get better at candlepin bowling. It increases their chances of scoring higher in this unique sport.
Scoring Rules and Game Strategy
Candlepin bowling has its own scoring system and strategy. It’s different from traditional ten-pin bowling. The game has ten frames, and players get three balls each to knock down 10 long, thin pins. Scoring a strike, where all pins are downed with the first ball, gets you 10 points plus the next two balls’ total. A spare, where 10 pins are knocked down with the first two balls, scores 10 points plus the next ball’s total.
Mastering candlepin bowling’s strategic elements is key for better scores11. Players need to understand pin placement, ball control, and the challenges of the small, lightweight balls and slender pins11. Keeping proper form, timing, and precision is crucial for knocking down pins and avoiding fouls10.
Understanding the Scoring System
- Strikes and spares are the keys to high scores in candlepin bowling.
- Two consecutive strikes are scored as 20 points plus the number of pins knocked down by the first ball in the next frame.
- Three consecutive strikes are scored as 30 points, 20 points plus the first ball on the second frame, and 10 points plus the first two balls on the third frame.
- Players must ensure their scores are accurately recorded frame by frame, as corrections are not allowed after the points are awarded and submitted.
Strategic Approaches for Better Scores
Developing effective strategies for candlepin bowling is essential for achieving higher scores. This includes understanding the unique characteristics of the equipment, such as the smaller, lightweight balls and slender pins, as well as mastering techniques like ball control and pin placement. By combining technical skills with strategic thinking, players can maximize their chances of knocking down more pins and minimizing fouls.
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