Things I Didn’t Expect About Returning to Bowling After 30 Years

After more than 30 years away from competitive bowling, I’m discovering that some things have changed—and some things haven’t.

In this solo episode of We’re Not Stumped, I share three things that surprised me as I prepare for my return to competition at the 2026 PBA60 World Championship.

The body doesn’t work quite the same at 61.
Some instincts and memories never really leave.
And one unexpected encounter reminded me that people still remember my days on the PBA Tour.

This episode isn’t about scores or equipment. It’s about rediscovering a part of my life I thought was behind me and finding out what’s still possible when you decide to take one more run.

As the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour, I hope this conversation encourages you to revisit a dream, try something again, or simply remember that it’s never too late to surprise yourself.

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By Mike Bolland|June 4th, 2026|Congenital Amputee Stories, General Disability Related Resources and News, Upper Limb Amputees|Comments Off

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What happens when you step back into something you once loved… years later? In this special episode of We’re Not Stumped, Mike Bolland shares the story behind his bowling comeback — from becoming the first person with limb loss to compete on the PBA Tour to stepping back onto the lanes with a renewed sense of purpose. But this story is about more than bowling. It’s about rediscovering confidence, overcoming fear, finding purpose again, and proving that it’s never too late to chase something meaningful. Whether you’re facing adversity, starting over, or trying to reconnect with something you once loved, this episode is a reminder that your story is still being written.

Before the movie Kingpin ever hit theaters, I was already bowling professionally with one hand as the first amputee to compete on the PBA Tour.

Now decades later, at 61 years old, I’m making a comeback. This video is a fun look at the similarities between my story and the iconic movie — except this one’s real.

From bowling with one hand… to stepping back onto the lanes for the PBA60 World Championship… this comeback is about proving it’s never too late to chase something meaningful again.

And yes… I’m still trying to avoid the gutter balls and my hook flying off!.

Copyright 2026 We’re not Stumped, One Hand Man Productions and Mike Bolland