Lawn bowlers just weeks from 1st full season

BRACEBRIDGE — The Muskoka Lawn Bowling Club is rolling in money.

Just weeks away from its first full season start, for the second straight year they’ve received $25,000 from the Government of Canada’s New Horizon for Seniors program, says a club release.

The funding will allow the club to purchase a greens roller and to install new sidewalks and an improved ramp for the bowling green.

The lawn bowling club opened to the public in July 2017. After a very successful summer and fall, the club is looking forward to its first full season, starting in mid-May.

A new greens roller and other improvements around the pitch come thanks to another $25,000 Horizon’s grant.

“Although lawn bowling is enjoyed by all ages, it particularly appeals to older adults”, said president Sally Mills.

The greens roller is expected to improve the quality and speed of the green.

“A smoother, faster green attracts participants and makes bowling easier for older adults who may have strength limitations,” said Mills, who adds an improved ramp to the bowling green will improve access to the new facility.

And new sidewalks around the green will decrease the risk of tripping on uneven ground surrounding the green.

“These additions will improve safety and accessibility, and it is anticipated that they will help increase participation in this fun sport”, added Mills.

“I’m pleased that we are helping the Muskoka Lawn Bowling Club offer quality time and easier access for seniors to continue an activity they love. Through the New Horizons for Seniors Program projects such as this, seniors are encouraged to pursue active lifestyles, expand their social network and play a leading role in activities that inspire goodwill, sharing and fellowship among community members.”– The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development.

Muskoka Lawn Bowling Club members are ready to let the bowls fly mid-May.

Bracebridge Mayor Graydon Smith congratulated Mills and the club.

“Lawn bowling has proven to be very popular within our community.  This New Horizons for Seniors Grant will help the club to improve the quality of the playing surface, and access to the facility for all ages and abilities.  The Town is pleased to be working with the Muskoka Lawn Bowling Club to provide the community with this low-impact healthy sport that supports physical activity, quality of life, and social interaction.  I encourage everyone to give it a try.”

Lawn bowling is a social, outdoor sport that can be played by all ages and genders together. Lawn bowling is easy to learn, but challenging to master.

Those interested in learning the game can sign up for the fun and inclusive ‘Introduction to Lawn Bowling’ programs starting in May.

The club has partnered with the Town of Bracebridge’s Recreation Department to offer several Introduction to Lawn Bowling programs ideal for older adults:

Mondays & Wednesdays, 10am-noon or 6:30-8:30pm, May 28 & 30, June 4 & 6

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:30-3:30pm, May 29 & 31, June 5 & 7

The introductory program fee is $60 for four classes, and includes all equipment, instruction, as well as post-game snacks and social time. When participants join the club as full members, the $60 program fee will be deducted from the $250 adult membership, which allows members unlimited bowling all season for just $190.

Lawn bowling is often referred to as “curling on grass”, as the rules and terms are similar to ice curling, but without the sweeping.  The club will be offering a brand new program targeted specifically to curlers.

Mills noted curlers often lament the end of the curling season.

“We hope that curlers will come and try our new ‘Rock’n’Bowl’ program, and enjoy ‘curling on grass’”

Rock’n’Bowl will commence on Tuesday, May 15 for four weeks, from 7-9 p.m. for $60.

The Muskoka Lawn Bowling Club is grateful to New Horizons for Seniors for the opportunity to offer expanded programming to the community.

Introduction to Lawn Bowling’ and ‘Rock’n’Bowl’ programs, membership details, and more information is available on the Muskoka Lawn Bowling Club website at www.muskokabowls.ca, or  by contacting Sally Mills at 705-646-0086 or office@muskokabowls.ca.