Lynda Maxwell has driven past the Penticton Lawnbowling Club more than a few times and wondered about the sport.
“I have driven by a million times and it looks fun,” she said, praising the instruction of Stewart Bruce, who was helping herself and a couple other people learn to bowl.
“It’s a lot to absorb,” she added.
It’s also been even more fun than she expected and she had a positive feeling about becoming a member.
Members of the club put Maxwell and others who attended the open house through different stages. The first was measuring their hands for the proper bowl size. Bowls range from 00 to six in size. They are also instructed on the bias, learning to use an in or outturn of the bowls. There is also learning how to pick up the bowl, hold and deliver it. In other phases, people learn about mat placement and how to throw the jack (white ball). The point of lawn bowling is to get the bowl as close to the jack as possible. As president Larry Bechard said, there is strategy involved.
The club attracted 20 people in the first hour of the event.
“This is a good turnout from previous years,” said Bechard, adding the sunny weather with a light breeze gave them excellent conditions.
After the newcomers went through the stages of learning, they played mini games with the members.
John Prier, a member of 14 years, said he loves everything about the game.
“The camaraderie, the act of bowling,” said Prier. “It’s a good sport. It’s easy to learn, but takes a lifetime to master.”
“It’s a social,” said Bechard.
The Penticton Lawnbowling Club season goes until the end of September and they have one large tournament on Sept. 23. Last year they had 25 teams and this year they hope to break 30. The club also holds smaller tournaments and have league play, as well as evening matches.
The club is located on 260 Brunswick Street, where it has been since 1929. The 80-year-old club has another open house on May 7 from 1 to 3 p.m.