How Much is a Turkey Worth in Bowling? Scoring Big with Three Strikes

For bowling enthusiasts, there is no achievement more exciting than bowling a turkey. The coveted ‘three strikes in a row’ is a milestone for any bowler, marking a clear level up in skills. But besides bragging rights, how much is a turkey actually worth in bowling scores? Let’s take a look at turkey scoring and why this trio of strikes is such a big deal.

What is a Turkey in Bowling?

First a quick primer for newbies. In bowling lingo a ‘turkey’ is the term for three consecutive strikes bowled in a single game. Knocking down all 10 pins with your first ball in three frames in a row equals a turkey.

This bowling feat is also called a ‘triple’ since it’s three strikes back-to-back. Compared to a double (two consecutive strikes), a turkey is understandably more challenging to achieve. But the scoring rewards make it well worth striving for.

The History Behind the Turkey Name

So why is it called a turkey? The bowling lingo traces back to the early 1900s when scoring three strikes won you an actual turkey as a prize, Bowling alleys would award live turkeys to any bowler who achieved a ‘triple’ during tournaments

Of course, handing out poultry after every turkey is no longer feasible. But the name stuck even after the turkey prizes faded away. Today, the terminology is a nod to the golden age of bowling when turkeys were the ultimate bowling reward

Scoring a Turkey: How Much is it Worth?

Nabbing a turkey is obviously going to boost your score. But just how many points can you earn? Let’s break down the scoring possibilities:

• Each strike earns 10 points automatically. So 3 strikes in a frame would be at least 30 points.

• Additional points are scored based on the pins knocked down on the 2 rolls after each strike.

• If you get 9 pins after strike 1 and 2, your turkey score would be 30 + 9 + 9 = 48 points.

• The maximum points is 30 – by getting 3 strikes and then striking again in the next 2 frames.

So in short, a turkey is worth at least 30 points but can be worth up to 60 points if you continue striking. Compared to sparing or open frames, that’s a huge scoring advantage.

Why Do Bowlers Value Turkeys So Much?

For recreational bowlers, a turkey may simply be a fun personal milestone. But if you talk to avid league bowlers and pros, the turkey holds significance as an elite bowling achievement. Here are some of the reasons this trio of strikes is so venerated:

• It’s challenging – Consistently knocking down all pins 3 times consecutively requires precision and advanced skills. Even pros don’t expect to score many turkeys per game.

• Boosts your score – As explained above, a turkey leads to a major quick injection of points. Three strikes in a row is a fast way to ramp up your score.

• Creates momentum – Striking out frame after frame builds energy and momentum. The turkey gets you hyped and riding a wave of adrenaline.

• Sign of skill mastery – Being able to place the ball successfully 3 times in a row demonstrates your expertise. Bowlers see it as proof they are reaching elite skill levels.

• Tracks improvement – Bowlers chasing the turkey milestone see it as evidence they’re getting better at bowling. The achievement is very motivating.

Tips for Bowling Your First Turkey

As a new bowler still mastering strikes, turkey scoring may seem very far away. But don’t get discouraged. Here are some handy tips to start working towards your first turkey:

• Practice your strike ball until you can reliably hit pins. Consistency is key.

• Visualize the 1-3 pocket hit every time to increase strike chances.

• Invest in a ball fitted for your hand size, finger span, and bowling style.

• Observe other experienced bowlers scoring turkeys to learn from them.

• Relax on each approach and focus without overthinking. Stay calm and confident.

• Celebrate briefly after each strike before resetting your mindset for the next shot.

• Be patient with yourself and keep trying. All bowlers have to work up to turkey mastery.

Enjoy the Thrill of High Scores

A single turkey may seem insignificant to a pro bowler. But for average league players, connecting those 3 strikes comes with an undeniable rush of excitement. No other score so clearly announces your arrival as a true, skilled bowler.

So keep an eye out for that turkey icon on the scoreboard. When you finally add a ‘triple’ to your bowling resume, the points will just be a bonus. You’ll simply revel in the satisfaction of joining the ranks of elite bowlers who have achieved bowling’s most iconic scoring feat.