I think the lane conditions were a factor. He rolled it during “open bowl” conditions and outside of the construct of the normal league night and lane conditions. That was the story he was given. This specific occurrence had to be, gosh, over 30 years ago.
I’m pretty sure he has at least one ring for his endeavors. Name on the wall at the place of this league. The place eventually burned down, so, so much for that notoriety.