Over four hundred years later, the royal ban now lifted, the sport maintains a global popularity. My wife and I started playing a couple of years ago. We had been looking for an activity in which we could participate equally, and there are few other sports that rely on skill rather than size or strength. Having said that, I would like to debunk the myth that "lawnbowling is for old folks". Both Gail and I are as far from retirement as we are from high school. In fact, it is only in North America that bowls has not caught on as a family recreation. Although it will never be considered an "extreme sport", lawnbowling can be physically demanding. The top-level tournament games are often day long affairs, sometimes played in temperatures exceeding 30C. This might explain why the current world champion is a fit twenty-seven year old. For just folks, however, there are five reasons why I consider it an ideal pastime: 1) It is a great way to unwind after work with a little walking and a little stretching. 2) If you want to play you can just show up. 3) It's a chance to meet friends. 4) Compared to other sports the required cost factor is low. Newcomers can try the game for free and, at our club, the annual membership is only $65.00 for which you can play up to twelve times a week! 5) Tennis makes you sweaty. The Grimsby Lawnbowling Club is located behind the Seniors Centre, between Sobeys and Central Public School, so when you are ready for an easy distraction come on by and check us out. Don't be shy, just wear a pair of flat-soled shoes; most running shoes will do for beginners. Our season starts in May, runs through October, and new players are most welcome. Check out the next instalment in which I explain some of the specifics of the game. |