Now, I'm an Irish American. I like to consider myself a smart guy and like to think I know quite a bit. I mean I am 47 years old and have seen a lot in my time. But honestly, I had never heard of Irish Road Bowling until today. So what the heck is it?
Irish Road Bowling (or bóthar) is a traditional Irish sport where competitors throw a 28-ounce steel ball, or "bullet," along country roads, aiming to cover a set course (often a mile or more) in the fewest throws. Primarily played in Counties Cork and Armagh, the game involves underhand throws, with teams navigating curves and hills to win.
Is this sport even played in the U.S.? Yes, Irish road bowling is played in the U.S., with a particularly strong presence in West Virginia, which hosts 14 tournaments per season. It is a growing, community-based sport where teams bowl a steel ball along country roads, also popular in areas like Boston, New York, and Virginia. But, what about locally here in Iowa? I need to try this.
Here in Iowa, Irish Road Bowling is played in Sioux City. Opportunities Unlimited hosts an annual Irish Road Bowling tournament, with the 3rd annual event held in September 2025 at Larsen Park Road and the Anderson Pavilion, featuring over 50 teams competing with 2-pound iron balls. So, this Fall will I get a chance to try this sport? I guess I need to find a 28-ounce steel ball and start throwing it down the street. I'm sure no one will look at me like a crazy man! Let's make 2026 an Irish Road Bowling year.
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