The sport of lawn bowling could find itself in the midst of an impressive resurgence in Moose Jaw if turnout during their National Bowls Day event results in new memberships.
Dozens of curious newcomers took the greens at the local club in Crescent Park, making for a full day of action as current members showed folks the basic ins and outs of the sport.
It was all part of a series of open houses at clubs across Canada, offering everyone a chance to check out a game they might not have thought of otherwise.
“Everybody seems to enjoy the game, and it’s a game you can start at any age and become proficient, no matter how old you are,” said Liz Jones with the MJLBC. “Then it’s fresh air, exercise and cheap -- we have all the equipment here, and a full membership is $100. You can play any time you like, May until September, so for the price of a couple rounds of golf you can have a whole summer of lawn bowling.”
The game itself is similar to curling, with the weighted bowls scoring points by being closest to the jack. Being able to judge green speed, distance, angles and how hard to throw are all key components, with top-flight competitions often coming down to inches to decide scores each end.
Moose Jaw has had no shortage of success in the sport over the years, too. Those who decide to go competitive can take the greens in provincial, national and world-level competitions, with the likes of former Moose Jaw competitors Ernie Meid and Charlie Taylor having done so at all three levels in the past.
But those who just want a bit of exercise and fun are more than welcome at the same time.
“It’s such a friendly sport,” Jones said. “It’s very competitive when you’re on the green, but afterwards, you can go and have a cup of tea together… you can have fun whether it’s competitive or just for a good time.”
Those looking to get involved in the game can drop by the club during any of the regular member nights, including Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 7 p.m. as well as Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. Members are more than happy to welcome newcomers and will show you the ropes; all you need is a pair of comfortable shoes, and you’re good to go.
“There are lots of people here bowling at other times, but these are times when it’s committed to be open, so if people want to bowl they can just phone,” Taylor said.
For more information on the club, give them a shout at (306) 693-4844 for all the details you need to get started in the sport.
