A Day of Hits and Misses

An unusual recreation we had aside from the normal activity of going to beaches and resorts. This time round, it is an urban recreation. We practically caught the attention of many other onlookers when we shouted “Yeah, knock it out, Hoo-ray, strike, etc…in this recent recreation of Bowling at the NCCC Mall where we spent our relaxing day. Surely, it was loud for anyone to hear us when we cheered for our own group members. The excitement level was high the moment we started playing since 2 Pm for a consecutive of 2 games.

Accompanying the students were three of our very own professors namely, Sr Miriam, Fr Bebot and recently returned to Davao, Fr Allen. Sr Miriam was one who was acquainted with the ‘fairlanes’ bowling , however this time round, she upgraded to the bigger ball version and proved to be graceful and accurate even though she has to bowl in her habit. Seldom has she got to recreate with us in a sporty way until this time and she was really grateful for such a beautiful experience.

Throughout the game there were bloopers that were comical and hilarious. Apparently, many of us were first timers and we could not help but burst out laughing whenever someone ‘washes the drain’. Without names mentioned, one drop the ball nearly at another’s feet and that triggered the ‘accident trauma’ sentiment that we were carefully avoiding during this sports tournament period. Certainly we do not expect casualties even in this game of bowling. Thanks be to God, accident rate was zero this time.

While some were busy playing, many others were munching away the packed sandwiches and soft drinks that the Team of the Month prepared. Indeed, bowling is a game of precision which requires aim and technique. Nevertheless, the afternoon was communal in the sense that we had fun and exhaustion. Fr Bebot made a joking remark that he never knew bowling could be a form of exercise in the midst of an air-conditioned environment. Perhaps he might consider this as his form of workout… we never know !

At the end of the day, the average score for the four groups were just above a hundred with the group ‘fight for peace’ emerging as the Champion to seal the victory. A very competitive game amongst us.
The great thing about bowling is it can be played at any level; as a recreational activity or as a competitive sport. Personally, I had fun too. I have never tried to master the skill but instead just enjoy laughing at myself and others while having a great time.

(-Eugene)