Second only to food, the thing that excites me the most is watching little balls rolling on the grass. Now while I get my fair share of fetching balls in the many dog parks in Balboa Park, I sometimes like to catch my breath by watching those spiffy-looking players all dressed in white take aim on the Lawn Bowling greens, or rink, situated between Founder’s Plaza and the Cabrillo Bridge.

English-style Lawn Bowling is just one of three types of outdoor bowling available in the Park, the others being bocce (Italian) and pétanque (French). While the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club has been around since 1931, the game itself originated in the 13^th century and is especially popular in the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia.

Though plenty of strategy and a skillful touch are involved, it can be played by two-leggers of any age. The trick, as I understand it, is learning how to correctly roll the balls, or bowls as they are called, which are not perfect spheres. One side is a bit flattened causing the bowl’s path to curve as it slows down. Fortunately, the Lawn Bowling Club offers a free lesson; just give them a call or send an email to set up a time. Otherwise, grab a bench and enjoy a relaxing afternoon around ye ol’ Lawn Bowling rink.