"Get Out," a new featured column by the Tri-City News, is an opportunity for community, sports and arts groups to get the word out about their programs and activities.
Introducing.... Coquitlam Lawn Bowling Club.
It's a sure sign of warmer days when an army of people, many donning their iconic white shirts and pants, hit the meticulously trimmed bowling green of the Coquitlam Lawn Bowling Club.
The city does an amazing job of keeping the greens in perfect condition and ready for a summer of friendly competition.
Built in time for the 1991 BC Summer Games, the facility today is nearly as pristine as it was back then, standing in the shadows of the now tall-as-an-adult rose bushes in the adjacent Rose Garden.
When the club was formed in 1990, as a non-profit society, players had to be recruited from New Westminster.
Today, there are 150 members — some who have been with the club since the very beginning.
In 2016, the club hosted the BC Senior Games' lawn bowling competition.
Currently, the club hosts two tournaments annually in association with Vancouver and District Lawn Bowling Association, attracting players from across Metro Vancouver.
The Rose Garden Tournament coincides with the Rose Society Show in the adjacent Rose Garden which attracts interest internationally.
In conjunction with School District 43 (SD43), the club plays host to a group of ESL students, who are new Canadians from across the globe. This gives them an insight into the game of bowls and how many Canadians spend their leisure time.
The club itself is relatively new compared to the sport, often called "bowls," which has been around for centuries.
In many ways, bowls is like curling on grass with a bit of strategy and a light touch. Any one can play young or old, everyone has a chance of winning a tournament — once they get the hang of it.
Whether its visitors from overseas, or residents who wander by and ask about the rules, introducing others to the sport and welcoming them to our community is really at the core of our club.
Every Sunday during the summer, many visitors to the local farmers market will sit on the benches surrounding the green and enjoy watching a game of bowls in progress.
Open most days for practice and socialization, our club continues to welcome new members and has been actively teaching the sport to all who are curious.
Our season runs until mid-October.
Part of the fun of the sport is sharing it with others. Lawn bowls is a great sport, an enjoyable way to meet new friends and spend many sunny days at a beautiful facility — recreation and fun for everyone.
Club membership fees are set annually at the annual general meeting in the spring; a waiting list for new members is maintained and lessons are provided to potential members.
For more information, you can visit the Coquitlam Lawn Bowling Club's website and Facebook page.
You can also send an email to [email protected].
