Curling, Fowling and Ax Throwing, Oh My!
This summer we headed to Ferndale to check out ax throwing. After signing our lives away, we were given instruction on how to throw the axes without losing a limb. We were told there was no liquor allowed in the cages, only beer was allowed. Probably a good thing!
We went through a series of practice throws. First, the axes are surprisingly heavier than you would think. We played some round robin games and I was pleased to find out I am a pretty good ax thrower, so don’t mess with me!
Bonus fun – a throne made of axes!
Curling is extremely popular here in Michigan. The Detroit Curling Club is one of the oldest in the United States, founded in 1840. This club is steeped in tradition. We took a 2 hour class where we spent the first 20 or so minutes learning about the button, the hammer and when to brush.
Let’s just say this is not as easy as it looks at the Olympics! First, curling takes coordination. There is the ice to contend with, as you try to glide gracefully across the ice and push the 42 pound stone down the sheet of ice. Also, it is a busy sport. As the sweeper, you are practically running up and down the ice trying to stay in front of the stone. Definitely “an authentic experience”, something fun to do on a cold winter day!
Another unique experience in the Detroit area is The Fowling Warehouse in Hamtramck. Fowling is bowling with a football. Not sure what to expect, we drove up to an industrial warehouse and went in. For $10, you can play all day!
Fowling is incredibly hard! Besides trying to throw a football with accuracy, hitting the pins is another story. The bowling part is the same – knock all 10 pins down and you win the game! If someone else’s ball hits your lane and knocks down a pin, it can help or hurt your chances of winning. Alcohol is encouraged and the Fowling Warehouse has a full bar and allows you to order in food!
After an exhausting hour of playing, we still had not knocked down our 10 pins. Overhand, underhand, rolling the football like a bowling ball, it didn’t make a difference! The pins would not fall down!
This game is not for the weak! While it was a fun time with two people, I think it would be much more fun with a group of people!
While ax throwing and fowling are year long events, these events and curling are certainly fun ways to beat the winter blues, while being active inside!
