Road bowls returns to Wheeling, West Virginia

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Road Bowling is growing in popularity in West Virginia

Road Bowling is growing in popularity in West Virginia

Road Bowling is growing in popularity in West Virginia[/caption]

By Evan Short

West Virginia’s love of the Irish sport of road bowls is set to be rekindled next week with the annual Ancient Order of Hibernians event coming back for the fifth year in a row.

Last September, over 500 people turned out and ninety teams faced off in what organizers bill as the largest road bowling event in the world.

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Road bowls is an ancient sport played primarily in Armagh and Cork in Ireland, but in Wheeling, West Virginia, the Bishop Whelan Division of the AOH has re-established the sport as a major charity event that continues to go from strength to strength.

Tom Murphy from Bishop Whelan AOH said organizers were looking forward to welcoming even larger crowds than last year.

“Ultimately the funds raised from the event are used to assist those in need in the Wheeling area,” Murphy said.

“Not only is the event for a good cause, but it has brought road bowling to West Virginia and created a great family and friends outing. The event is open to all who want to participate.”

The rules of the game vary from area to area, but the general objective is the same.

Participants bowl a small steel ball (called a bullet or cannonball) along a public road around two miles long, with the winner the participant who completes the course in fewest throws.

“This year’s event takes place on Saturday, September 19 and each participant pays a $25 fee which includes bowling, dinner, music and drinks,” said tom Murphy.

The musical entertainment this year will be provided by Brigid’s Cross.

“Registration starts around noon and the fun continues into the evening,” said Murphy.

For more information, the registration form and to see pictures, visit the website https://aohwheeling.shutterfly.com or visit Road Bowling on Facebook.

 

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