I think that one has to overcome his social shyness.
Are you referring to yourself as 'the one'?
Go out and introduce yourself to everyone.
"Hi my name is XXXX, what is your name."
"It was pleasure meeting you."
Do this over, and over, and over, and over. Do not deviate from it for the entire day. Shot for doing it 50 times. Keep count.
Next time, use an opener. Any opener (Your bowling ball example would work)
After you get the answer, walk away. Do not try to do more than this because it will make you nervous.
Do this enough and you will be able to walk up to anyone and talk to them.
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Recommended reading list.
Double Your Dating by DD
(This will work on your inner game)
http://www.freewebs.com/xfman/
(This will work on your outer game)