Your Tournament Starts Before You Get There

Your tournament bag should include your bowling balls (most bowlers bring 4-6 for nationals), bowling shoes with extra slide soles and heels, and a complete accessories kit including USBC-approved cleaner, microfiber towels, abralon pads, fitting tape, rosin bags, and any wrist supports you use. Don’t forget your USBC membership card and valid photo ID for registration.

Most competitive bowlers bring 4-6 balls covering different conditions: 2 high-performance balls (solid and pearl) for heavy oil, 2 mid-performance balls for transition, and 1-2 benchmark or spare balls including urethane and plastic. The key is having options that cover different oil volumes and lane conditions.

Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes to 1 hour before your scheduled squad time. This gives you time to check in, set up your equipment, and mentally prepare. For team events at the Open Championships, arriving early is especially important since you’ll need to coordinate with teammates.

USBC allows only approved ball cleaners during competition. These cleaners appear on the official USBC Ball Cleaner and Polish List on BOWL.com. During competition, you may wipe your ball with approved cleaners, but you cannot use any substance that alters the ball’s surface. No abralon pads, polishes, or compounds between games.

No. Once competition begins, your ball must stay exactly as it was when you threw your first shot. You cannot use abralon pads, add polish, or alter the surface in any way during an event. However, full resurfacing is permitted between separate events (e.g., after team event ends and before doubles/singles begins).

Check your bowling bag as luggage (most airlines accept them under weight limits). Use a padded travel cover to protect your roller. Carry your bowling shoes in your carry-on in case checked bags are lost. Book direct flights when possible to reduce the chance of equipment delays.

Reno sits at 4,500 feet elevation with very dry air. Your fingers and thumb will feel drier than normal. Bring extra fitting tape and be ready to adjust. Stay hydrated starting the day before you bowl. Some bowlers report slightly different ball reaction at elevation.