Washington Park Lawn Bowling Club celebrate 100 years

The majority of the Washington Park Lawn Bowling Club is comprised of people who happened to be walking by the green and were curious to know more. It starts with a question. For example, “Is this bocce?”

No, this is lawn bowling, a commonwealth game popular in the United Kingdom. The objective is to roll your lawn bowls — hard resin balls — with a bias so they travel along a curved path as close to the target ball, a smaller white ball called a “jack,” as possible.

The 120-square-foot plot of ground is nestled between the Mount Vernon Garden and Grasmere Lake in Wash Park.

Mark Newton is a member who enjoys the physical, mental, and social aspects of the game. “The number one priority is to share the sport with the city of Denver and to grow our membership,” he said.

About 50 people attended the June 28th celebration to commemorate the club’s 100th year, enjoying friendly open play, popsicles and anniversary cake.

Lawn bowlers welcomed the Denver Croquet Club in 1985. Since then, the nonprofit clubs have shared the cost of care, repair and maintenance. “We look forward to at least another 100 years of being in coexistence,” longtime croquet member Judy McKeon said.

Dan Williams, partnerships manager for Denver Parks and Recreation, spoke about the historic significance of a century. “I can count on one hand how many other city partners there are that are that old. The Denver Zoo, the Denver Botanic Garden, the Museum of Nature and Science, and the Lawn Bowling Club. So very good company.”

Free lessons are offered at 6 p.m. Tuesday for people who want to learn more.