Last weekend, I bowled for the first time in a couple of years. I didn’t have great scores, but I had a great time and realized I missed it.

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I started bowling when I was about 10. In high school, bowling at Rockaway Bowl was a weekly staple for some combination of Greg, Dave, Johnny, Keith and I. I had my own ball, and I bowled in a few leagues.

The high point was probably when my team tied for first place, only to lose the title on total pins (which seemed to be a rule made up on the spot). I still claim we were the uncrowned champs! Then again, I have been known to be petty in that way.

I know Fran Gallagher will argue that golf is the businessman’s game. He might be right; I rarely hear business discussed in a bowling alley. I doubt anyone will ever write about the beauty of any specific bowling alley. I admit, inside, they are all pretty much the same.

I will argue a few advantages bowling has over golf. Bowling is not affected by weather or seasons. Bowling can be a solo activity. You never have to worry about learning the course in bowling.

I have heard about (although never experienced) the high of hitting that perfect golf shot. However, I have experienced the high of the perfect bowling shot, followed by the unmistakable sound of a strike. Now that is a thing of beauty as well as being very stress-relieving.

I know the popularity of bowling has declined in recent years, and I think it is a shame. Bowling might not be the businessman’s game, but it can be a great time for everyone.

— John Wroblewski, distribution specialist