ESPN continues to roll "Spare Thoughts"

ESPN has unveiled a second round of its Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) on-air promotional campaign currently airing across the ESPN networks. "Spare Thoughts" provides fans with potential thoughts of professional bowlers in the heat of competition. The Concept Farm agency in New York City developed the campaign in association with ESPN. ESPN debuted the promotional campaign in September with spots featuring Chris Barnes and Jason Couch.

ESPN's "Spare Thoughts" offers a humorous look as to what may go through the mind of a bowler during competition. For example, are they thinking about the crowd? Do dollar signs dance in their heads, or is the money merely an afterthought? Do butterflies dance through their stomachs as they try to focus on the mechanics of their roll?

"With this campaign, we're trying to get inside the head of the bowler, find out exactly what they are thinking when everything is on the line," said Lee Ann Daly, ESPN senior vice president, marketing. "Our goal with these additional spots is to continue to emphasize the level of competitiveness on the PBA Tour, while showing the lighter side."

A brief description of each spot follows:

Brian Voss reflects on the importance of a cool pair of shoes.

Brian Voss has his eyes on the prize and his mind on the color purple.

Norm Duke feeds off his fans as they cheer him on.

Norm Duke goes head-to-head with the four pin.

Emotions run high for Parker Bohn III as he tastes victory with a strike.

After another win, Parker Bohn III realizes how good he is.

Pete Weber describes the agony of falling short of perfection.

Pete Weber's bid for perfection ends up in the gutter.

Robert Smith ponders a win and the potential prizes.

Robert Smith accepts his trophy and prize money with grace.

This year's coverage marks the first of a three-year exclusive agreement between ESPN and the PBA. As part of the agreement, ESPN's schedule features more consistent days and start times with all telecasts on Sundays or Tuesdays. The PBA has been a part of ESPN's programming lineup since 1979 and has been televised on the network consistently since 1985. ESPN has had exclusive telecast rights to the PBA Tour since Fall 2000. ESPN will next televise the Long Island Open from Uncasville, Conn. Sunday at 1 p.m.

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