The Bowl Canada Board of Directors met May 5th with YBC Nationals as Item 1 on the Agenda.  YBC had previously made arrangements to reschedule the Nationals to July 19-20-21, which was the only weekend through the summer where we would have been able to line up the required logistics (available hotels, bowling centres, etc.).  Due to circumstances in the City of Calgary, which recently banned all events up until August 31^st due to the pandemic, the Board has no option but to remove these dates and, a summer timeframe, from consideration.  Bowl Canada will continue to monitor the evolving circumstances and make a final decision on YBC nationals when and as appropriate.

Youth Bowl Canada is happy to announce that this week it will be donating a total of $4,880 to the Canadian Red Cross in support of relief efforts for those affected by flooding in the Bracebridge & Muskoka areas of Ontario, as well as in Laval, Quebec.  The funds were raised thanks to the support of the caring youth bowling community, which was assembled for national championships from May 5^th to 7^th in two separate provinces/locations.

Last week Youth Bowl Canada was in Laval for its 49^th Annual National Youth TENPIN Championship, which took place at Centre de Quilles 440 in Laval, Quebec.  With attendees representing 7 provinces across the country, all were quick to step up and support the host community that had been struggling with rising water levels and flooding for weeks.   $930 was raised through draws as well as a raffle for a new bowling ball.

At the same time in Ontario, NEB’s Funworld in Oshawa was hosting all Canadian provinces and 1 territory for the 55^th Annual Youth Bowl Canada National FIVEPIN Championships.   The local Oshawa committee worked hard to raise $3,950 for the hard hit communities just an hour or so away in Ontario’s “cottage country”…. Bracebridge and the Muskokas.  Attendees showed their hearts by jointly donating roughly $1000 per day of the 3-day championship, with almost another $1,000 raised through a draw for a set of fivepin bowling balls.  Both nationals saw the bowling ball prizes donated by Buffa Bowling Distribution out of Montreal (thanks Buffa!).

“The local bowling centre is a hub for nearly every community across Canada.” Stated Bowl Canada President Rod Hennessey, who went on to say… “And being “about” community, it’s no surprise to see bowling families supporting those in need across our great country.”  Bowl Canada Executive Director Paul Oliveira points out that “The bowling community is a caring one and has proven to be quick to support those in need.  In the last few years we’ve raised funds in support of the Humboldt Community….  for Gatineau, Quebec during the floods of 2017 and in support of the Fort McMurray community while the fires were still raging back in 2016.”   President Hennessey adds… “We’re in the area for our National Championships, and the drastic situations are on the news and in our minds and hearts… it’s hard not to want to help out in some way.  Every bit makes a difference and the bowling community has always done its part.”

Youth Bowl Canada thanks all who participated in these fundraisers in support of Canadians in need.

BOWLING FOR BRONCOS strikes up support

Since Monday, bowling leagues across Canada have been BOWLING FOR THE BRONCOS, raising funds in support of the Humboldt Broncos families, team and the Humboldt community, to assist with medical and other expenses in the wake of the tragic accident last Friday.

Participating bowling centres are asking all their league bowlers to donate a Loonie for every strike they throw during league play this week.  League announcements outlining the fundraising initiative are being met with enthusiasm from coast to coast.  Anyone involved in sport knows all too well about bus trips to Zone Finals, Regionals, and Provincial Championships, etc.   This accident hits close to home to any Canadian, and perhaps to sport enthusiasts more than most.

Bowl Canada congratulates participating centres and all league bowlers contributing to the cause.  And many bowling centres are accepting donations from casual play customers as well.  So if you’re going bowling this weekend, ask the management at your centre if you can contribute to Bowling for Broncos!   Strike up some fun and support!