Andy Varipapa

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Andy Varipapa, born March 31, 1891 and died on August 25, 1984 was a professional and trick bowler. Varipapa became famous around the world for his trick rolling ^[1] . He was considered to be "the greatest one-man bowling show on earth"^[2] because of his array of exhibition rolls, such as a "boomerang ball" that Varipapa would slowly roll down the lane, only to have it return. He was famous for his ability to convert splits, and, astoundingly, could convert the 7-10 split with one ball in each hand, simultaneously. He made many demonstration short films over his career, including 1934's Strikes and Spares with Sally McKee and Buster Brodie.

In 1946, at the age of 55 he won the prestigious All-Star competition in a gruelling 100 game format ^[3], making him the oldest winner ever.^[4] He became the first to win two years in a row when he repeated in 1947 ^[5]in spite of a dramatic comeback by Joe Wilman. Mr. Varipapa lived to be 93 years old and was an active bowler well into old age. At the age of 78, he taught himself to bowl left-handed, as his right hand was giving him difficulties and within two years he averaged 180, a testament to his awesome skills and longevity.

[edit] References

1. ^ Weiskopf, Herman (1978). The Perfect Game. Time, Inc., 64. ISBN 0-13-657015-1. 
2. ^ Weiskopf, Herman (1978). The Perfect Game. Time, Inc., 64. ISBN 0-13-657015-1. 
3. ^ Weiskopf, Herman (1978). The Perfect Game. Time, Inc., 78. ISBN 0-13-657015-1. 
4. ^ Weiskopf, Herman (1978). The Perfect Game. Time, Inc., 78. ISBN 0-13-657015-1. 
5. ^ Weiskopf, Herman (1978). The Perfect Game. Time, Inc., 78. ISBN 0-13-657015-1.