bump*ers
What Is The Definition Of Bumpers In Bowling?
Bumpers are the raised barriers that rise up out of the gutters on either side of the bowling lane. They are designed to help bowlers who are new to the sport or who may have a tendency to roll the ball off of the lane and into the gutters. When the ball rolls over the bumpers, it is diverted back onto the lane. Bumpers are usually raised just high enough to prevent the ball from rolling into the gutter, but low enough to allow the ball to roll onto the lane.
What Is The Origin Of Bumpers In Bowling?
The origin of bumpers in bowling can be traced back to the mid–1960s when bowling alleys began introducing the concept of bumper bowling for younger bowlers. Phil Kinzer is credited with inventing the bumper system in bowling. He was a bowling alley manager in the 1960s and noticed that many of the younger bowlers had difficulty controlling the ball, leading to them being frustrated and leaving the game. He devised a system of raised gutters called bumpers to keep the ball in play even if it didn’t stay on the lane. The concept of bumpers caught on and is now a staple of modern bowling alleys worldwide.
Are Bumpers Automatic?
These days, bowling systems are advanced enough to understand which player in a group needs bumpers, and they will automatically pop up for that bowler when it’s their turn.
Example Of How Bumper Is Used In Commentary
1. Bumpers are a staple of bowling alleys all across the country, and are credited with helping younger bowlers learn the sport.
Sport The Term Is Used
1. Bowling