MEDIA RELEASE

Special Olympics West Hawaii volunteer and unified partner Carl Warner competes in the Big Island bocce tournament Oct. 24, 2009, at Pualani Estates Park in Kailua-Kona. He and SOWH athletes Adrian Cleintuar won first place in their division. Photo by Nikki Cleintuar

Special Olympics West Hawaii athletes, unified partners and volunteers interested in learning or competing in bocce ball should attend the sport’s first practice, from 3:15 to 5 p.m. June 8 at Pualani Estates park.

This ancient game, dating back to the Roman Empire, closely resembles bowling. It requires skill, strategy and a little luck. There are four to eight large balls, weighing just over two pounds. They differentiated by designs. The Jack, a smaller ball in a different color, is tossed first. Whoever lands his larger ball closest to the Jack gets a point. The person with the most points wins.

Practice will be held from 3:15 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays at the park.

For more information or to get involved, call SOWH Head of Delegation and Bocce Ball Coach Lona Warner at 808-327-0491 or 808-989-2080.