B-Cubed set to return for a second season

SOUTH WINNIPEG

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This article was published 10/04/2024 (601 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A recreational bowling league which combines three key elements — bowling, barbecues and beverages — is set to return this summer. And this time it’s super-sizing things.

B-Cubed held its inaugural sessions last summer at Dakota Lawn Bowling Centre at 1212 Dakota St., and this year it’s expanding to two leagues due to its popularity — Norwood Lawn Bowling Club, located next door at 1202 Dakota, will be the other venue.

Both leagues — which are open to anyone aged 18 and older — will run every Wednesday evening throughout June and July, with the first session on June 5 and the last on July 24.

B-Cubed is described as a social activity that gives participants a chance to learn a new sport and meet new people, as well enjoy some potentially gorgeous summer evenings in Manitoba.

“Last year was a big success,” said Paulette Abraham, key organizer and Norwood Lawn Bowling Club board member. “In the beginning, we figured if we ended up with six teams, we’d be happy.”

As it turned out, organizers had a full house of 16 four-person teams sign up for the summer, and there was also a number of names on the waiting list. This quota can now potentially be doubled with the addition of the second league.

Abraham, who lives in St. Vital, said one of the endearing things about last summer’s debut B-Cubed event is that it attracted participants of different ages, including a family with teenage kids. And while the vibe was generally a chilled one, Abraham said there was still some friendly competition between certain teams.

“Some teams would razz each other as people were getting to know each other and feeling more comfortable. The rules are more relaxed than regular games, and aren’t as strict,” she said, noting the event is intended to be “very casual” and isn’t targeted at elite bowlers.

Part of the idea is to encourage people who might be new to the sport or have never bowled before to give it a try.

“The real goal is to find people to lawn bowl, as we’re all getting older,” Abraham said.

“It’s a way of introducing it to young people and getting them out on the green, and hopefully getting more members at clubs. It’s important to get junior players interested in the sport.”

Deadline for registration is April 30. To register, or for more information, email bcubedwinnipeg@gmail.com or call or text 204-981-6055.

The group also has a Facebook page called B Cubed Winnipeg.