With the spring thaw, the Oak Bay Lawn Bowling Club inviting the public to join them this weekend.
They host an open house Sunday as an opportunity for the public to learn the ancient sport and try their hand at bowling. Those looking to give it a shot should bring flat soled shoes to protect the carefully tended greens. • It’s sort of like curling on grass. The idea is to get closest to a “jack”. You can knock opposing bowls out of the way and its the skilled players who will be victorious.
• The bowl will curve when it’s rolled down the green. The Bowls are weighted to curve as they roll so skill and strategic shots are important.
• Anyone can play. Lawn bowling isn’t just for retirees. It’s become increasingly popular with all generations, and virtually anyone can play.
• It must be fun; it’s been around for a long time. Some historians believe the earliest version of the game was played by the Egyptians around 5,000 B.C., and Sir Francis Drake had to interrupt a game in 1588 to go take on the Spanish Armada.
The club operates year-round and is always looking for new members. They even have dedicated coaches available for novice bowlers.
The open house is April 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the club at 2190 Harlow Drive.