Why is Three Strikes Called a Turkey in Bowling?

In the sport of bowling, scoring three consecutive strikes is known as bowling a ‘turkey’ But where did this peculiar term come from and why is it used to describe such a coveted feat? The story behind the ‘turkey’ in bowling is an interesting one, tied to the history and evolution of the sport itself

The Origin of the Term ‘Turkey’

During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, bowling was very different from the modern game Lanes were crude and uneven, pins were set by hand rather than machines, and scoring three strikes in a row was an exceptionally rare achievement In this era, bowling tournaments became a popular diversion for all classes, from working class citizens to aristocrats. These tournaments frequently offered prizes of food baskets with choice items like hams or turkeys.

As bowling techniques and equipment gradually improved the prizes at tournaments were tailored to reward greater accomplishments. Knocking down three pins consecutively was difficult enough to warrant awarding a live turkey as a prize. And thus, the association of the ‘turkey’ with three consecutive strikes was born.

While the exact origins are uncertain, this practice became widespread in the late 1800s and early 1900s, especially around the holidays. Over time, even as actual turkeys were phased out as prizes, the term ‘turkey’ stuck in bowling vocabulary as the designation for achieving three strikes in sequence.

The Significance of the ‘Turkey’

The ‘turkey’ holds a unique place in bowling history and terminology. At the time it emerged, executing three strikes consecutively was an impressive feat worthy of a substantial prize. The difficulty of achieving a ‘turkey’ was compounded by challenging lane conditions and equipment.

Earning a ‘turkey’ became a sign of skill mastery, consistency, and composure under pressure. It also gave players a tremendous advantage for scoring. As such, the ‘turkey’ was highly coveted, adding excitement and motivation to bowling tournaments when live gobblers were up for grabs.

Over decades, as scoring technology and lane conditioning evolved, consistently bowling three strikes in a row became more commonplace for professional and league players. Yet the ‘turkey’ remains ingrained as a significant milestone enshrined in bowling lingo. It continues to represent an indicator of a strong performance.

The ‘Turkey’ as a Cultural Tradition

Beyond the lanes, the bowling ‘turkey’ has entered wider culture and language. It is now commonly used in a figurative sense to describe three consecutive wins, achievements, or successful outcomes in various endeavors beyond bowling.

In bowling specifically, the cultural influence of the ‘turkey’ can be seen in the evolution of related terminology. Other bowling accomplishments are denoted by food terms like ‘hambone’ for four strikes in a row and ‘golden turkey’ for nine consecutive strikes.

The ‘turkey’ is also strongly linked with Thanksgiving in the United States. Bowling alleys traditionally run holiday tournaments, promoting the opportunity to earn a ‘turkey’ on Thanksgiving. This further reinforced the cultural connection between bowling turkeys and the bird on the Thanksgiving table.

Modern Use of the Term ‘Turkey’

Among modern bowlers, while the actual awarding of plump gobblers is a thing of the past, the pride of achieving a ‘turkey’ lives on. Scoring three consecutive strikes continues to be celebrated with high fives, cheers, and enthusiastic gestures. It represents a pinnacle performance.

In scoring, a ‘turkey’ is hugely impactful, adding 30 pins instantly. Rolling a ‘turkey’ early in a game can set the pace with momentum on the bowler’s side. Fans and commentators alike still excitedly shout “Turkey!” when a bowler successfully strings three strikes together.

For novice and youth bowlers, a modest goal might be simply recording their first ‘turkey’. Seasoned league and competitive bowlers aim to regularly earn ‘turkeys’ as a benchmark for consistency and supremacy on the lanes.

The ‘turkey’ retains its cultural gravity and impact on scoring in the modern game. It encapsulates a meaningful achievement etched in the history pages of bowling.

Common Questions About Bowling Turkeys

What are other food-related bowling terms?

In addition to ‘turkey’, popular food terms for consecutive strikes include ‘hambone’, ‘chicken’, ‘ham sandwich’, and ‘cereal’. 5 strikes in a row = cereal, for example.

Does scoring a ‘turkey’ have to be 3 strikes in a row?

Yes, a proper ‘turkey’ is specifically 3 consecutive strikes in chronological order within a single game. Sometimes the term is used loosely to describe 3 strikes in general, but formally it must be back-to-back-to-back.

Is a ‘turkey’ a common achievement in pro bowling?

For seasoned pro bowlers, recording a ‘turkey’ or two within a game and series is fairly commonplace. However, at higher competition levels, any small mistake can interrupt a potential ‘turkey’, keeping the achievement still meaningful.

How many pins must be knocked down to score a strike?

To score a strike, a bowler must knock down all 10 pins in a single frame. A strike gives the opportunity to score more points since the next two rolls also count as part of the strike bonus.

What’s the difference between a ‘turkey’ and a ‘golden turkey’?

A ‘turkey’ is 3 consecutive strikes, while a ‘golden turkey’ is a more difficult feat of 9 strikes in a row. A ‘golden turkey’ demonstrates incredible consistency nearing perfection.

Conclusion

In the end, the legacy of the ‘turkey’ in bowling endures as a distinctive achievement interwoven into the fabric of the sport. It encapsulates centuries of history since bowling’s early days when actual turkeys were awarded prizes. The ‘turkey’ retains its significance as a show of skill, scoring power, and grace under pressure on the lanes. It’s both a cultural tradition and a meaningful target that keeps dedicated bowlers striving for excellence.