In a move that has shocked absolutely no one who has ever left a corner pin standing, the British Tenpin Bowling Association has finally taken decisive action: from 1st April, the 7 and 10 pin will be *removed from all certified play*.
According to an internal report, the corner pins have been identified as:
– “A persistent troublemakers”
– “Statistically the most smug pins on the deck”
– “Responsible for 87% of bowler heartbreak, emotional distress, and loud muttering”
# Why the 7 and 10 pins Must Go
The BTBA’s newly formed Committee for the Removal of Annoying Objects outlined several compelling reasons:
### 🧪 1. *Scientific Evidence*
Independent studies (conducted exclusively by bowlers who just missed it) confirm the 7‑pin is positioned at an angle that defies physics, logic, and occasionally gravity.
### 🎯 2. *Fairness in Sport*
The 10‑pin, 6‑pin and even the notoriously slippery 10‑pin have all agreed to cooperate with bowlers at least some of the time.
The corner pins, however, have refused all negotiations.
### 😤 3. *Emotional Wellbeing*
Removing the 7 and 10 pins is expected to reduce:
– Sudden outbursts of “OH COME ON!”
– Bowlers staring at the pin deck in disbelief
– The classic “walk away shaking your head” routine
Mental health matters — and the 7 and 10pin does not.
### 📉 4. *Economic Impact*
Pro shops report that corner pins leaves are responsible for:
– A 40% increase in unnecessary ball purchases
– A 60% increase in “I need a new layout” conversations
– A 100% increase in bowlers blaming their equipment instead of their aim
Removing the 7 and 10 pin is expected to stabilise the bowling‑ball‑related impulse‑buying economy.
## What Happens Next?
From April 1st:
– All lanes will be reconfigured to a *8‑pin formation*, now officially called “Tenpin Bowling Minus the Worst Ones.”
– Bowlers will enjoy a new scoring system where every shot that would have left a 7 or 10 and 10pin is automatically upgraded to a strike.
– The 7‑pins them/their self will be relocated to a secure facility where they can no longer taunt anyone.
Reactions From the Bowling Community
Early responses have been overwhelmingly supportive:
– *League Bowlers:* “Honestly, it’s about time.”
– *Coaches:* “This will save us hours of explaining deflection.”
– *The 7 and 10 Pin:* – No comment.
## Final Note
The BTBA would like to reassure everyone that this decision is backed by years of frustration, countless near‑misses, and the collective sighs of an entire sport.