The Surprising Connection Between Golf and Bowling: A Deep Dive

By: Evan Rothman
Date: June 7, 2025
Read Time: 3000 Words

At first glance, golf and bowling may seem like an unlikely pairing—two sports often viewed through starkly different lenses. Golf is synonymous with green fairways and tranquil landscapes, evoking images of serene morning rounds with friends. In contrast, bowling conjures up thoughts of brightly lit alleys, clattering pins, and raucous laughter. But upon deeper examination, these two games share a remarkable number of similarities that unite their players, strategies, and social aspects.

An In-Depth Look at the Mechanics

To truly appreciate the connection between golf and bowling, it’s critical to analyze the gameplay mechanics of each sport. Both sports involve intricate mental calculations. In golf, understanding the nuances of the putting green—its slope, speed, and the way grass grain affects the ball—can dictate a player’s success on the green. Similarly, in bowling, players must decipher the oil pattern laid down on the lane, understanding its impact on ball movement and spin. Just as golfers calculate the ideal speed and angle for each putt, bowlers must consider how to throw their ball with speed, spin, and precision.

Star Players and Their Crossroads

Athletes often excel in multiple disciplines, blurring the lines between sports. Consider E.J. Tackett, a three-time Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Player of the Year, who embarked on a collegiate golf scholarship. His journey illustrates not just a personal crossover but an existing intersection of talent that can exist within the world of sports. Tackett competed in golf tournaments against luminaries like Scottie Scheffler and Jordan Spieth during his junior career, showcasing that skills in one sphere can translate effectively into another.

Historic Ties: Oak Hill Country Club

A prime example of this connection is Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, N.Y. Founded in 1901, this club doesn’t just excel in its golf offerings—its East Course is ranked No. 69 in GOLF’s World Top 100 list—but also prides itself on having a bowling alley nestled in its Tudor-style clubhouse. This eight-lane bowling alley, opened during the 1940s, serves as a hub of social activity for club members, connecting generations through both golf and bowling experiences. The facility is not merely an amenity; it’s interwoven into the very fabric of the club’s culture.

Membership Perspectives

Jordyn Weller, the club’s director of membership and communications, emphasizes the importance of the bowling alley to its members: “It’s a wonderful amenity, especially during the chilly months of upstate New York winter. We wouldn’t be Oak Hill Country Club without it.” This sentiment reflects a broader truth: bowling alleys are not merely places for sport; they foster community, warm camaraderie, and friendly competition that enhances the overall membership experience.

The Roster of Clubs with Bowling Facilities

Far from being a unique feature of Oak Hill, bowling alleys in private clubs are making a comeback across the country. In New York alone, esteemed retreats like Wykagyl Country Club and Pelham Country Club also embrace the bowling tradition, offering members a chance to engage in this sport amid their golfing pursuits. Similar trends can be observed in other affluent clubs around the nation such as Greenwich Country Club and Philadelphia Country Club, revealing that bowling is establishing a solid foundation among golf enthusiasts.

The Skill Sets: Precision and Strategy

Both golf and bowling demand a unique blend of skill, physical ability, and mental acuity. Players in both sports spend years honed in on their techniques. In golf, mastering the art of the drive is crucial, just as a bowler must refine their throw. Each sport offers a multitude of styles and strategies, making proficiency in one beneficial to the other—a notion supported by leaders in both sports who often cross paths.

Camaraderie: The Social Aspect of Both Sports

The age-old debate over whether golf is a sport or a social activity is met with ambivalence. Many golfers relish the social dimension, enjoying camaraderie over a round on the course. Similarly, bowling leagues foster relationships while embracing competition. Whether it’s a friendly game among close friends or a league-taking place weekly, both sports champion social interactivity alongside individual skill development.

From Tournaments to Major Wins

High-stakes tournaments offer opportunities for athletes to shine in their respective sports. A prime example is five-time PBA major champion E.J. Tackett, who competed against future major winners like Scheffler and Spieth in youth tournaments. Such crossovers are not trivial; they reflect an evolving recognition of talent and skill that transcends specific sports.

Moreover, significant golf tournaments hosted at Oak Hill, such as the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship, serve as reminders that excellence can come from committed practice on both the fairways and bowling alleys. Events like these affirm a culture steeped in historical precedence, where a focus on precision and strategy can lead to remarkable achievements.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Dual Passion

In summary, while golf and bowling may appear to stand on opposite sides of the sports spectrum, a closer inspection reveals underlying commonalities. Both are linked through mechanics, skill, and social dynamics, evidenced by the unique experiences at clubs like Oak Hill. As they continue to intertwine, these sports will garner respect and appreciation not just for their individual merits but also for the unique blend of community and competition they foster. Ultimately, whether on the green or at the lane, golf and bowling showcase the same values—perseverance, camaraderie, and most importantly, the joy of playing games that have become integral parts of our cultural fabric.