Barry Wright
Looking to stay fit and enjoy the summer sunshine? Lawn bowling might be just the ticket.
In an effort to attract more people to the activity, which is currently played in 40 countries around the world, the Sarnia Lawn Bowling Club in Germain Park is holding a series of free introductory open houses this week.
Sessions run Wednesday, May 13 and Thursday, May 14 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. as well as Friday, May 15 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, May 17 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
A similar event last year drew about two-dozen new bowlers.
“Wear loose fitting clothing, because you'll be bending over a little bit, and flat-soled shoes,” said club President Dave Moffitt. “We'll spend a little time explaining the purpose of the game and how it works and then we'll get you right out on the green actually rolling lawn bowls.”
Moffitt says the sport, similar to curling and bocci ball can be played by anyone and is not an “old people” sport as some believe.
He says current membership is around 70 people and ranges in age from 13 to 88.
“The shame of it is that it always gets associated with older people, but anyone can do it,” said Moffitt. “If you can walk reasonably well and you have decent balance, you're off and running, so to speak.”
Bowls are supplied for beginners and Moffitt suggests new players experiment with different weights before deciding which bowl is right for them.
Newcomers who can’t make it to the open houses can drop by the club Tuesdays or Thursday evenings at 6:15 p.m.
Bowling season runs from May to September. The regular weekly schedule includes mixed social games on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, plus ladies or men’s bowling on Mondays. Members may choose to bowl socially or try their hand at more competitive games in various tournaments throughout the season.
For more information, contact Dave Moffitt at 519-869-2501, or Ron Thurier at 519-542-3988.