Few activities combine fun, friendly competition, and skill quite like a game of bowling. Whether it's challenging friends or family to see who can land the highest score, bowling brings out the excitement in everyone.
Dear Lykkers! But how much do you actually know about the game? While most people are familiar with the basics, there are plenty of surprising and fascinating facts about bowling that might just blow-your mind.
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From its ancient origins to some fun facts about modern-day bowling, here are 10 interesting things you probably never knew about this popular pastime.
1. The First Indoor Bowling Lane
In 1840, the first indoor bowling lane was constructed in New York City. Before that, outdoor lanes had been built in parts of Europe.
Bowling was first seen on television in 1950, which helped introduce the game to a larger portion of Americans.
3. Bowling Banned in America
At one point, bowling was banned in America to stop soldiers from gambling on the game and neglecting their duties.
4. Bowling Items Found in Ancient Tombs
Items used for bowling were discovered by British archaeologists in Egyptian tombs dating back to around 3,200 BCE.
5. Bowling Ball Weights
Bowling balls come in a variety of different weights, with the heaviest bowling ball available weighing 23 pounds.
6. Women's Inclusion in Bowling
Initially, only men were allowed to bowl, and women were excluded from the game. In 1917, the Women’s National Bowling Association was founded to provide women the opportunity to play and make the sport more inclusive.
7. Early Bowling Balls
Early bowling balls were made of wood or heavy rubber. Modern bowling balls, however, are made of a polyester resin, which was first used around 1960.
8. Largest Bowling Alley in the World
Japan is home to the largest bowling alley in the world, the Inazawa Grand Bowling Centre, which has 116 lanes.
9. 9-Pin Bowling is Rare
9-pin bowling is currently illegal in all states except Texas. The standard number of pins is 10, although up to 17 pins have been used at various points in history.
10. Bowling in the U.S.
More than 67 million people bowl in the United States every year.
How many of these interesting facts about bowling did you know? Bowling is one of the most popular games in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. It’s fun, exciting, and gives everyone a chance to be social with friends and loved ones. What could be better? Come on out and experience the fun for yourself at your local bowling center!