Chris Barnes took a significant step in his bowling career when he won the 2005 U.S. Open to capture his first major title.

He now has set his sights on his second major title: the 2005 United States Bowling Congress Masters, to be held Nov. 15-20 in Milwaukee. Barnes knows that in order to win his first USBC Masters, he'll have to be prepared for the challenging USBC Sport Bowling lane oil pattern.

In this question-and-answer session, Barnes - the official USBC Sport Bowling spokesperson - discusses his quest for his first USBC Masters title and the challenges that USBC Sport Bowling presents the world's top players.

Q. You're gunning for your second major title. What would it mean to collect it at the USBC Masters this year?

A. It would mean a lot to me. I have always taken great pride in my record in the ABC Championships Tournament (now USBC Championships) and the USBC Masters. A second major in one of the toughest tournaments in the world to win would be very gratifying.

Q. What is the significance of the USBC Masters - as well as the other three Professional Bowling Association majors - being conducted on USBC Sport Bowling lane conditions?

A. It speaks volumes that our toughest tournaments - and nearly all of the major youth scholarship events - are conducted on USBC Sport Bowling conditions. It has become the standard for all major competitions.

Q. Will the challenging lane conditions be a good test for the players at the Masters?

A. USBC Sport Bowling conditions are always a good test, offering a premium on accuracy, rotation and speed control. We have our work cut out for us at the Masters.

Q. How will you prepare for the USBC Masters?

A. I will practice locally in a center that puts down USBC Sport Bowling lane oil patterns so that I may sharpen my game.

Q. How do you like competing in the Masters?

A. I enjoy the format of the USBC Masters. The match-play format is exciting and adds drama to the event. I would like it more if the matches were four games like with the original format. The more games, the more likely the best player of the day will win.

Q. Is USBC Sport Bowling viewed by top players as the recognized standard for competitive bowling?

A. I believe it is viewed as the highest standard. Although top players must be ready for any condition - that of a "top hat," league, PBA, Kegel or international patterns - they specifically train on and prepare for USBC Sport Bowling conditions.

To purchase tickets to the televised finals of the USBC Masters, which will be held at Milwaukee's U.S. Cellular Arena on Nov. 20 at noon, call (414) 276-4545.

The Masters is open to all USBC members with a 190 or higher average. For entry information, e-mail Tom.Boedecker@bowl.com

By Patrick Brettingen USBC Communications