The number of 300 games and 800 series rolled by United States Bowling Congress members declined for the first time since the 1985-86 season, according to a report recently released by the organization.

A total of 51,557 perfect games were sanctioned last season, down from the 56,212 rolled during the 2005-06 season. The number of 800 series was down, with 16,635 rolled last year, compared to 17,612 in 2005-06.

The USBC attributes the decline in these scores mainly to the number of higher-averaged bowlers migrating to sport bowling leagues. Sport bowling is recognized by the USBC, and members bowl on very challenging lane conditions.

The organization did make some changes to the specifications regarding lane surfaces, pin-coating materials and core differentials in bowling balls, and that could have contributed to some of the decline.

Despite the decrease in 300s and 800s, the USBC still handed out plenty of awards, with the majority going to bowlers who rolled a game 75-pins over their average. In all, 234,369 bowlers achieved this award and the USBC issued 130,537 regular high score awards

Trivia question

Last season 2,019 bowlers earned a USBC award for achieving this feat. What was it? Answer at the end of the column.

Tip of the Week

In this day and age, when bowling balls soak up oil or move it down the lane, being able to get the ball through the front part of the lane and heading toward your target is crucial.

The lane dressing, or oil, gets depleted and causes your ball to hook too early. There are a couple of ways you can combat the problem.

First, make an adjustment toward the center of the lane. This area might not be as depleted. Just remember to adjust your target as well.

You also could make the switch to a ball that is polished and does not create as much friction when it hits the lane.

Another tactic would be to lift the ball farther out onto the lane (without launching it high in the air).

Pay attention to how the ball is reacting out of your hand and make adjustments, if necessary.

Top scores

n Junior Suchonic led all bowlers in the Buckhorn League with a 266 game and 688 series. Others who bowled well include: Adam Selfridge, 246-661, and Brad Buckley, 674 series.

• Mike Strutt rolled a 276 game and 782 series to lead all bowlers in the Fox's Pizza Den league at Sherwood Lanes Scott Walker, 258-740-, and Gary Gregg, 277-721, also bowled well.

• Marty Gilliland and Richard Magee each rolled 635 series to lead the Automotive League at Bon Aire Bowl. David Fair had the high game of the night with a 256.

Barnes advances

Lynda Barnes advanced to the semifinals of the USBC Women's Open with a 289-258 win over Michelle Feldman. Barnes, the wife of PBA star Chris Barnes, opened with the first 10 strikes, but left a 3-pin to end her shot at a televised 300 game.

Barnes joins Liz Johnson and Carolyn Dorin-Ballard in the semifinals. A fourth bowler will be decided in matches to take place at 1 p.m. Sunday on ESPN.

Trivia answer

A total of 2,019 sanctioned bowlers converted the 7-10 split last season.

Ron Willison is the bowling columnist for the Butler Eagle.