Have Some Fun with Irish Road Bowling!
In honor of St Patrick's Day, we thought we’d look into some fun Irish pastimes. One we found definitely made us smile! Keep reading to learn more about Irish Road Bowling, or, in Irish Gaelic, Ból an bhóthair!
What is Irish Road Bowling?
Road Bowling originated in Ireland and is most commonly played in just a few counties. The object of the game is to use the fewest throws possible to send a metal ball down an already determined course of country roads. Spectators will bet on the games and offer advice and support to their favorite competitors.
Are There Rules to this Irish Fun?
The ball or “bowl” used is a cannonball made of iron and steel. Serious business. It’s 7” in diameter and approximately 2 lbs. A match is called a score. They can be played individually or in teams. The thrower will run to the throw mark and arch their back and throw out the ball. A chalk mark is made where the ball stops and that becomes the new throw spot.
The team or person with the least number of throws to get to the finish line is the winner. In the case of a tie, the winner will be the team or person who threw their ball farthest past the finish line.
It’s a Group Effort!
There will be a “road shower”, similar to a golf caddy, who helps advise the player. There’s also another helper who stands ahead on the road with their legs spread, demonstrating the best path for the ball. This is clearly a person who trusts their mate’s throwing and aiming abilities. Balls don’t have to stay on the ground can be tossed up and over bends in the road but if it lands off the road they must take an additional shot and count them both.
Come Bowl With Zone 28
We may not have road bowling (and we don’t suggest you try it on Freeport Rd!) but are lanes are just as fun and safely indoors! They are first come first serve, so get here earlier to make sure you get a lane!
Click here for more info on our bowling rates!
