Bowling on Two-Lane Roads

LEAVE IT to the Irish to take bowling out of the alley and put it on a two-lane road!  Yes, you read that correctly: a real road - with the probability of cars and trucks passing by. And, their invention has now   crossed the Pond and is catching-on in the United States. The official name of the sport is "Irish Road Bowling," and people in Ireland have been enjoying it since the 1600s.

Learning the rules of this sport is really a pretty simple task. A 28-ounce iron and steel ball (also known as the "bowl" or "cannonball") is thrown in an underhand manner as far as possible down a 1-mile to 2-mile stretch of country road. The player who takes the fewest throws from the starting line to the finish line is the winner.

Selecting the best stretch of road for this sport is important. Obviously, moderate to heavy traffic would not work well at all. The road "far less traveled" would be much better. Further, the type of road should be considered. Straightaways are fine, but curves and tilts of the roadway add to the challenge. A hill or two would not only add interest, but also make it even more of a challenge for players. And, there could be some other hazards to keep in mind in addition to approaching vehicles: maybe things like roadkill, poison ivy, snakes, or other critters.

Road bowling is not only an enjoyable leisure activity for players, but helpers and onlookers can get in on the fun as well. During matches it is helpful for people to be scattered along the route to watch for cars and to assist players in finding balls when they go off the side of the road. This is especially true for tournaments where officials and assistants are needed. Even pure spectators and fans can have a good time just watching and cheering the action!

Long-time participants of road bowling recommend that players take a running start and then jump in the air just before releasing the ball. Some like to use an arm motion similar to regular American bowling. Others prefer a windmill style much like fast-pitch softball.

One source for the purchase of road bowling balls and other supplies is the West Virginia Irish Road Bowling Association. They may be reached by calling 202-387-1680 for information or to place an order. A starter package has been available at $24.95.

In addition to West Virginia, the states of Massachusetts and New York have road bowling clubs and associations where serious play takes place on a regular basis. Other pockets of interest have been found in Texas, Iowa, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Missouri as well. Some of the top U.S. road bowlers compete in tournaments for limited entry spots each year for championships held in Ireland.

If you're looking for a leisure activity that is new and unusual; that provides opportunities for fun, exercise, and excitement; then road bowling may be for you. It appears that several thousand participants on at least two continents already think so!