Coming to Salina, KS
Saturday – September 7, 2024
Indian Rock Park
Origin: Given this is an Irish story, factual verification is neither required nor desired.
Irish Road Bowling began in the 1600s when Irish rebels, under cover of night, would sneak into British forts and steal small cannonballs from the armories. Rather than carry the heavy cannonballs the rebels would roll them down the roadside. Coupled with the mandatory beer/whiskey drinking they ultimately made a game of who rolled furthest.
Converted to a town-to-town (pub-to-pub) event, teams roll “bullets” across country roads with the winner determined by the fewest rolls. Even as a clearly social activity, the sport was banned by Britain on the presumption that the activity allowed the convening of rebels that could result in various plots agains the Crown.
Today, Ireland annually hosts a national championship for individual and team bowlers. In the United States, starting on the east coast, road bowling is becoming increasingly popular as a sport and social activity often doubling as a fundraiser for worthy causes.
Bowl the Rock
Saturday, September 7th beginning at 9:15 am
On Saturday, September 7th beginning at 9:15 am, teams of four will begin vying to be the first Salina Irish Road Bowling (SIRB) Champion.
The rules are simple, and the game requires neither extensive practice and preparation nor exceptional athletic skill. It will include a leisurely 45 minute walk of about 3/4th of a mile over and around Indian Creek Park.
The four members of each team will take turns alternately rolling a “bullet” around the course. When complete, the teams are ranked according to which team had the fewest rolls.
The “bullet” is a replica of a small cannonball and fits in the palm of the hand, weighing about 28 oz.
Registration will open on June 1, 2024, and must be completed online. There will be no registration the day of the event. As the inaugural bowl, registration is limited to 15 teams.
There are plenty of fun viewing areas for interested observers. The signing-in area and starting line will be near the lower-level shelter on the north side of Indian Rock Park that faces Gypsum Avenue.
Each team will designate a captain, who must be 21 years of age. Special recognition will be given to especially creative, original, and socially acceptable team names.
The team fee is $100
A lost bullet deposit of $15 will be charged - this will be reimbursed when the bullet is returned.
T-Shirts will be available for purchase.
Besides the healthy walk and physical “exertion” each team member will receive 2 drink tickets and donuts.
Pray for Sun, Prepare for Rain
Only lightning will delay or postpone the event.
Red vs. Blue Roll Off
Sheamus the lion is not lyin’
“This is the best reason to be drinking beer and eating donuts at 9:00 in the morning.”
SIRB is pleased to announce a competition between a team of law enforcement officers and a team of firefighters.
At 11:30 on September 7th, join the gallery following Salina’s finest as they compete for bragging rights as each team seeks to arrive at the finish line with the fewest throws.
Show your colors and follow the head-to-head competition and cheer on your team.
$50 will be donated in the winning team’s name to a charity selected by their Chief.
Sponsorship and Donations
This is a fundraiser and SIRB welcomes sponsors of all levels. If interested, a budget can be shared and a conversation can be arranged, or additional information provided.
SIRB has established a fund at the Greater Salina Community Foundation which insures your support is tax-deductible.
All funds go directly to putting on the event. The event planners receive no compensation.
The intent is for SIRB to be an annual activity with a goal to raise funds for selected causes.
All sponsors will be acknowledged here on the SIRB website and on Facebook. Signage and name listing on event t-shirts will be for those larger donations.
Proceeds to Support KWU
Funds raised from SIRB will stock the initial hygine pantry at KWU
There remains a growing gap between college costs and available financial aid. Besides the fact that over 20% of Kansas Wesleyan University (KWU) students are Pell Grant eligible, a large share of students face day-to-day budget choices that can impact their health, school performance, and the well-being of the campus community.
KWU has worked to address food insecurity and now wants to focus on the overall health and habits of its student body. By providing free toothpaste, deodorant, soap. and other hygiene needs and informational materials the Hygiene Pantry will:
Promote good health
Reduce the risk of infection and illness
Boost self-confidence
Enhance social interactions
Ensure a healthy campus and community
Irish Road Bowling Sponsors and Teams will have a huge positive and ongoing impact.
