Jim, you have a way to ask simple questions that result in brain pain!
Would a sanded ball, due to more surface friction, deflect less than a highly polished ball when it contacts the pins? Would that change carry? Is Robbie including that in his minor %age?
Brendan, the nationals are next month. Mark said you guys were thinking of going. Just go! It's not a real long drive for you. Then you can ask him in person. It is definatley worth going and seeing how these guys do their job.