"What is a Washout Spare Leave in Bowling"?

    A “Washout” is a spare leave with a space in between the pins, but the Headpin is still there (1 pin). It’s basically a split with the 1 pin present. They don’t consider it a split because theoretically you shouldn’t miss hitting the headpin. 
 
    Washouts, like splits, can still be difficult to convert. The first one we will discuss is the 1-3-7, or 1-3-6-7. You need to hit the 1 pin slightly on its' right side in hopes that it will slide over into the 7 pin. Try moving about ½ board or 1 full board to the left of where you normally stand for your strike shot. Use this as a starting point and adjust a little at a time until you can convert it. 

1-3-7 or 1-3-6-7

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​    Another washout you may encounter is the opposite, the 1-2-10, or 1-2-4-10. This time you will need to move slightly right of where you stand for the strike shot to hit the 1 pin slightly on it's left side, so the 1 or 2 pin can slide over into the 10 pin. Remember, bowling is a game of angles and pins hitting into other pins for results! 

1-2-7 or 1-2-4-7

​    There are several other “washouts” you may come across that I haven’t mentioned here, but you get the idea. It’s just a split with the headpin still remaining.
 
    Another way I see bowlers going for some of these washouts, is to stand to the left at the stance to change the angle. Also try converting these on the left side and take notes on how you made them so you can refer to them on league nights if you need to. The object is to get high scores, have fun, and help your team win the games!! There is so much satisfaction in bowling really well. I promise that you will get there, just be patient with yourself and keep practicing when you get a chance.!
 
  Next week I’ll be discussing “How Do I Find My Bowling Ball Track”? I look forward to seeing you then.
 
Good Luck and High Scoring!!