Try your hand at a new game, courtesy of Jefferson Park Lawn Bowling Club.

If you’re looking to shake things up a bit this summer and take on a new activity, the Jefferson Park Lawn Bowling Club (JPLBC) has just the sport for you. Located on the Jefferson Park Golf Course in Beacon Hill, the club was created in 1942, when Charles P. Middleton suggested that the South District Lions Club sponsor a South District Lawn Bowling Club.

According to its website, the goal of the JPLBC “is to promote and teach the game of Lawn Bowling, foster sportsmanship, good fellowship and friendly rivalry among members.” The club welcomes anyone who is interested, no matter how little they know about the game, to try their hand at an open bowl, during which non-members receive a free first lesson.

The JPLBC has several leagues that play during most of the year, depending on the preferred type of weather. The club also offers three levels of tournament play, all of which are open to club members. JPLBC’s full calendar of events provides members of all ages and abilities with plenty of activity to keep them busy well into autumn.

Lawn bowling, which dates back to the 13th century, is similar to bocce and pétanque. The objective of this precision sport is to roll your radially asymmetrical balls, or bowls, closer to a smaller white ball — called the jack or kitty — than your opponent’s.

Lawn bowling is most popular in Australia, Canada and New Zealand, as well as the United Kingdom and many of its territories. August 2011 was recently named “Lawn Bowling Month” by the City of Seattle and the State of Washington, and Aug. 24-29, 2011 is “Lawn Bowling Week” throughout King County.

One event that members of the JPLBC are looking forward to hosting is the 2011 U.S. National Lawn Bowling Championships next week. Any and all spectators are invited to come view their beloved sport. Players from all over the country will descend upon Seattle to compete from Aug. 23-28.

Those interested in membership and rental information can visit the club’s website for more information.

Jefferson Park Lawn Bowling Club | 4103 Beacon Ave S., Seattle | (206) 762-2490