St. Petersburg Celebrates Over a Century of Lawn Bowling Tradition

News Summary

The oldest lawn bowling club in St. Petersburg, Florida, celebrates its rich heritage and community spirit as it attracts players from all over. Established in the early 20th century and recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, the club blends tradition with new players and offers free lessons, fostering an active lifestyle and community bonds.

St. Petersburg, Florida, is celebrating the rich heritage of its oldest lawn bowling club, which has been a staple in the community for over a century. Located at 536 4th Ave. N. in downtown, this formally organized club attracts players from across the nation and the globe, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere centered around the sport.

Florida’s oldest lawn bowling club has captured the hearts of many, with treasurer John Woermer discovering the game 15 years ago after relocating to Florida for winter. The club, which has been operational since the early 20th century, offers a unique blend of tradition and community spirit, making it a welcoming place for both seasoned players and newcomers alike.

In addition to its rich history, the club’s clubhouse was recognized by being added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1980, further solidifying its importance in the fabric of St. Petersburg. The club cultivates a community-oriented environment through a sport that emphasizes precision, tradition, and social connection.

The game of lawn bowling itself involves rolling heavy, asymmetrical bowls towards a smaller white ball known as the jack. The design of the bowls causes them to curve due to uneven weight, making strategy and precision crucial to mastering the game. A typical game lasts about two and a half hours, consisting of 16 rounds known as ends. Points are tallied based on how many bowls are closer to the jack than the nearest opposing bowl, often requiring players to use a measuring tool for accuracy.

Club president Trevor Cleland highlights the significance of welcoming new players into the fold. The club operates under the motto that it values how the game is played over the mere outcome of winning or losing. Despite its leisurely pace, lawn bowling embodies a competitive spirit that demands strategic planning and focus. Members enjoy creating bonds through shared experiences, celebrating holidays together, and supporting each other both on and off the green.

The physical benefits of lawn bowling are also apparent, particularly among older adults. Player Cheryl Staley emphasizes that participating in the game helps maintain an active lifestyle as individuals age, contributing positively to their overall well-being. Recognizing the importance of growth within the sport, the club offers free lawn bowling lessons every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 9 a.m. until April 30, after which lessons are available only on Wednesdays. All necessary equipment for lawn bowling is supplied during these lessons, making it accessible for anyone interested in trying their hand at the sport.

This lawn bowling club stands as an essential bridge between the historical roots and the evolving culture of St. Petersburg. It embodies the value of tradition while fostering a welcoming community in an urban space, inviting all to engage in a sport that has brought together generations of players.

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