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Bocce Thu May 15 2008
Bad Bad Bocce
Attention all rebel spirits: Looking for a game to align with your no-nonsense attitude and revolutionist underpinnings? If so, look no further than Bocce.
The history of Bocce is littered with tales of treachery. For example, the Republic of Venice banned Bocce in 1576 with support from the Roman Catholic Church. Individuals caught with balls in hand were punished by fines and imprisonment. Worse than the potential jail time, however, was condemnation from the Church in an age when indulgence was still commonplace.
To prevent backlash from higher powers (the GB editorial staff), I must remind readers that I do not condone participating in Bocce or any other acts of public defiance. But I do acknowledge the rebel spirit as an undeniable force, and will provide some suggestions for discretely engaging in the most illegal of all games.
1. Chicago's miles of sandy lakeshore are primed for clandestine Bocce tournaments. Special balls for beach competition are available at a number of locations, but make sure to have acceptable sporting equipment nearby in case the feds arrive. I personally recommend a foldable mesh Frisbee.
2. Escaping the city for upscale Northbrook is another option for the ultra-paranoid. Pinstripes is a unique indoor/outdoor facility featuring six Bocce courts and eighteen bowling lanes. Don't expect to find red plastic cups and keg beer at Pinstripes, since the establishment features a menu of American and Italian wines.
Update: Andrew mentioned a Ravenswood venue in the comments, and I discovered Cody's Public House on 1658 W. Barry. Cody's compliments a Bocce ball court with English Darts and inexpensive PBR and Schlitz. I have plans for the weekend!
Andrew Huff
/ May 15, 2008 3:38 PM
The Powers That Be at Gapers Block fully endorse the playing of bocce! My family has its own balls, imported from Italy!
There's also a regular game to be had in Welles Park, along the fence near Lincoln and Sunnyside. It's an older crowd, so I'm not sure what it would take to join in, but bringing your own set would be a good indication that you're serious.