Edited 20/06/10

Loaded 20/06/10

During the first step the bowling arm is extend approximately 60% with the forearm square with the ball path.

Over-extending and locking your elbow will cause posture and timing problems so be sure to straighten your elbow but not lock it.
The shape of the motion is a downward arcs so the ball is in front of the right foot 4 to 6 inches which will allow the right foot  to support the weight of the ball and allow you to maintain proper balance and leverage.

The non-bowling hand remains on the ball to help support the weight of the ball during the ball placement to the start of the back swing.