Del Ballard Jr., a professional ten-pin bowler and member of the Professional Bowlers Association, faced a life-altering challenge when he was diagnosed with tonsil cancer in 2010. This difficult experience became the catalyst for an inspiring journey of transformation, leading to significant weight loss and a renewed commitment to health and well-being.
Del Ballard Jr.'s Journey to Better Health
After his tonsil cancer diagnosis in 2010, Del Ballard Jr. underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments at Texas Oncology, an affiliate of Baylor University Medical Center. His prognosis for a full recovery was good. However, this health scare motivated him to make significant lifestyle changes, including a focus on weight loss.
Weight Loss Strategy Pillars: Diet and Exercise
Ballard Jr.'s weight loss plan emphasized nourishing his body with unprocessed, whole foods. He eliminated sugary drinks and processed meals, replacing them with nutrient-rich alternatives. Exercise became an integral part of his routine, comprising brisk walks, refreshing swims, and invigorating runs.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Motivation
Embarking on a weight loss journey is rarely easy. Del Ballard Jr. likely faced numerous challenges, including managing cravings, staying motivated, and overcoming setbacks. However, his determination and commitment to improving his health allowed him to persevere.
The Holistic Approach to Weight Loss
Del Ballard Jr. recognized that weight loss was not solely about calorie counting and hitting the gym. He addressed emotional eating patterns, emphasizing the significance of cultivating a healthy connection with food. He also sought support from healthcare professionals, registered dietitians, and therapists to create a comprehensive approach to well-being.
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Lessons Learned and Future Horizons
Ballard Jr.'s weight loss story exemplifies the power of determination and a holistic approach. It highlights the importance of emotional healing and mental well-being in the realm of weight loss. As research continues to deepen our understanding of these connections, Del Ballard Jr.'s experiences serve as a reminder of the potential for holistic health strategies.
Empowering Others Through "Beyond the Lanes"
As an expert in the field, Del Ballard Jr. established "Beyond the Lanes," a community that provides personalized fitness programs, coaching, and support. His approach extends beyond weight loss, embracing a holistic view of health that considers mental, emotional, and physical aspects.
Embracing a Holistic Approach
Ballard Jr. emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded approach to health. He understands that weight loss is not just about counting calories or hitting the gym. It involves addressing emotional and mental health, alongside adopting sustainable lifestyle changes.
Creating a Supportive Community
"Beyond the Lanes" creates a supportive environment where individuals can connect with like-minded people, receive expert guidance, and grow together. The community provides motivation, encouragement, and accountability, making it easier to stay on track.
Adapting to Individual Needs
Del recognizes that fitness journeys are not one-size-fits-all. He encourages clients to listen to their bodies and adjust their programs as needed. Adaptability is key to long-term success, ensuring that individuals feel comfortable and motivated.
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Mindful Eating and Emotional Regulation
Mindful eating practices and emotional regulation are crucial for lasting results. Del teaches clients to pay attention to hunger cues, identify emotional triggers for overeating, and develop coping mechanisms to overcome cravings.
Consistency and Perseverance
Del emphasizes the importance of consistency and perseverance. Weight loss and fitness are not easy, but with dedication and hard work, anyone can achieve their goals. His programs provide a structured plan and ongoing support to help clients stay on track.
Del Ballard Jr.: A Bowling Legend
Delmas Perry "Del" Ballard Jr. (born July 1, 1963) is a professional ten-pin bowler and a member of the Professional Bowlers Association. He was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 2009 and the USBC Hall of Fame in 2011. Ballard is married to Carolyn Dorin-Ballard, a top female bowler, and they have one daughter. The Ballard family resides in North Richland Hills, Texas.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Ballard entered the PBA Tour in 1982 at the age of 19. He won his first major title at the 1987 U.S. Open Championship, earning a then-record $100,000. In 1988, Ballard won his second major, the ABC Masters. In 1991, he had his most successful year on the tour, winning four titles.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Ballard won 13 PBA Titles in his career between 1987 and 1993 and has career total earnings of $1,130,857. He cashed in 259 of 482 tournaments. Ballard received an exemption for the 2006-07 PBA tour season by finishing tenth in the Tour Trials. No longer an active bowler on the standard PBA Tour, Ballard continues to work on tour as a ball rep/coach for Storm.
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The Infamous 1991 Fair Lanes Open
On March 2, 1991, Ballard was involved in one of the most bizarre and infamous incidents in PBA history. In the nationally-televised championship match at the 1991 Fair Lanes Open tournament in Baltimore, Ballard faced Pete Weber for the title. Weber closed off with three strikes in the tenth frame, putting Ballard in a position where he needed two strikes and at least seven pins on the third ball to win. Ballard threw the two strikes he needed, but the third shot unfortunately went into the gutter, handing Pete Weber the title.
Overcoming Adversity
Ballard recovered from this loss a few weeks later, defeating Jim Johnson Jr. However, he received a threatening phone call that led him to change hotels and become a changed man from that day forward.
Ballard vs. The Big "C": Striking Back to Spare More Lives
The current passion for the Ballard family is their charity event: Ballard vs. The Big "C" Striking Back to Spare More Lives. The idea for the event took root after Del was diagnosed with tonsil cancer in 2010, which changed their lives forever. The Ballards and their friends knew that through bowling, they could make changes in the lives of not only those in the immediate community but worldwide.
Making a Difference Through Bowling
One of the most exciting parts of the event, now in its third year, is exposing new people and businesses to the sport of bowling. As Del and Carolyn have said, "This is what we are supposed to do - help others who may not be able to help themselves as well as give back to our community through our sport."
Supporting the Community
The event has provided over $700,000 in support and contributions for three great organizations in their community: Baylor Scott & White, North Texas Laryngectomy Society, and Cancer Care Services. Cancer Care helps provide nutritional supplements during and after treatment to patients who can't afford them and provides emotional support as well as financial help. Baylor is a leader not only in exceptional health care but in cancer research.
Pete Weber: A Bowling Legend and Rival
Peter David Weber (born August 21, 1962) is an American bowler in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA), currently exclusive to their age-group PBA50+ tours (PBA50 and PBA60), and a member of the PBA and USBC Halls of Fame. Weber was one of the sport's most active players and became known for his maverick, chirpy, and rebellious personality. He is also known for being incredibly versatile, with his high backswing and the side rotation he puts on the bowling ball helping him control numerous oil conditions.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Weber has won 37 titles on the PBA Tour (fourth all-time), including ten major championships (tied for second all-time), and another 14 titles (six majors) on the PBA50 Tour. He is one of only three bowlers in history (with Walter Ray Williams Jr. and Earl Anthony) to have amassed at least 50 combined titles between the PBA Tour and PBA50 Tour. Weber and Williams Jr. are the only two bowlers to have amassed at least 100 total PBA titles, with PBA Regional events added.
The 1991 Fair Lanes Open and Rivalry with Del Ballard Jr.
Weber's 16th PBA Tour title on March 2, 1991, at the Fair Lanes Open was earned "on the bench" in one of the PBA's most infamous incidents. Weber struck three times in the tenth frame of the title match, forcing his opponent, Del Ballard Jr., to get two strikes and seven pins in his final frame to win. Ballard got the two strikes, but his final shot went into the gutter, giving Weber the title.
A Controversial Figure
Weber's attitude on television has given him a reputation as a brash "action bowler," which some critics view as unsportsmanlike. However, PBA Commissioner Tom Clark stated that when Weber made the finals telecast, ratings went up.
Jason Couch's Success and Training at Kegel
Jason Couch is a professional bowler who has achieved significant success on the PBA Tour. He has credited his training at Kegel with Richard Shockley and his touring coach and ball rep Del Ballard Jr. for his recent success.
Kegel Training Center: A Bowler's Boot Camp
Kegel Training Center offers a unique training experience for bowlers, simulating lane conditions from any center or tournament in the world using the same lane dressing equipment the PBA implements on tour. The CATS (Computer Aided Tracking System) provides bowlers with detailed analysis of their game, helping them identify and correct weaknesses.
The Rigorous Training Process
Coach Shockley grills bowlers with the treatment he calls "beating up your game" until they get it right or become exhausted, whichever comes first. The CATS computer stores visuals of bowlers who have previously attempted to say goodbye to their games' weakest links, allowing students to compare their games with others.
Benefits of Kegel Training
Kegel Training helps bowlers improve their consistency, power, and accuracy. It also helps them develop a better understanding of lane conditions and how to adjust their game accordingly.