A Sport Through the Ages

THERE IS EVIDENCE that people have been engaging in some form of bowling for a very, very long time. It is calculated by some that the history of the game dates back thousands of years. A collection of objects in a child's grave in Egypt suggests that bowling traces its ancestry to 3200 B.C.

Perhaps a more authentic bowling timeline came from William Pehle who asserted that the game began in Germany in 300 A.D. Other records show that a form of bowling was enjoyed in England in 1366. In the more modern American history, we find that in 1841 Connecticut made it illegal for anyone to operate nine-pin lanes. However, in the late 1800s, ten-pin bowling was flourishing in New York, Ohio, and Illinois. In 1895 the American Bowling Congress was organized in New York City. It was not until 1951, however, that automatic pinspotters were first introduced.

It is impossible to establish for certain an exact date for the beginning of bowling. Further, it is impossible to accurately trace the development of the sport through the years. However, we do know that it has become one of the largest participatory sports in the world. Over 95 million people now enjoy bowling in over 90 countries on six continents.

Bowling is a lifetime sport for boys, girls, men, and women. Children, youth, and adults in reasonably good health can all participate. It is often especially appealing to senior adults. Commercial bowling centers are located in numerous towns and cities across the United States and around the globe. Bowling lanes may also be found in some churches, and other organizations, with recreation centers.

Whether it's rolling a ball down the lanes by yourself, participating with a couple of friends, or joining a league, bowling is just simply pure fun! In terms of good exercise coupled with an enjoyable recreation activity, bowling is an excellent choice. It has been a sport through the ages and it continues to provide a wholesome leisure experience.
___________
-- The photo above was taken at Speedway Lanes in Bolivar, Mo.