An Irish Road Bowling starter pack. (Provided photo — Diane Chase)

Some of the most popular St. Patrick’s Day traditions did not originate in Ireland, like corned beef and cabbage or green beer. I am not downplaying the importance of brined meat or dyed beverages because everyone turns a little Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. If you want to add another dimension to your real or imaginary Irish roots, then it’s time to learn about Irish Road Bowling, practiced for hundreds of years in the counties of Armagh and Cork.

Though its history is somewhat convoluted, whether the game originated from the Dutch coming to Ireland or the Irish miners competing with available items, road bowling has been a rural sport in Ireland since the 1600s. How it arrived may be murky, but it remains a stronghold in Ireland and the internationally recognized governing body.

Teams of four bowl an official 28-ounce iron ball called a “bullet,” a solid iron ball similar in look and feel to a small cannonball. Similar to golf, teams progress along the predetermined course, which is along a country road. The team with the fewest bowls is the winner. There are no penalties, and each team alternates bowls. Though most people show up with formed teams, singles looking for a place are fit into teams when possible.

Spectators are welcome, but learning a few road bowling terms can be helpful. The road showers are similar to a golf caddy, showering advice at the thrower. The start is a chalk line called a dash or butt. Participants have to be careful not to “break the butt,” which means to cross the line. Participants will “hurl” the “bullet” by a running start while releasing the “grip” or hold on the cannon. “Fg an Bealach” is the battle cry, meaning “clear the way.”

Indian Lake is the closest place in the Adirondacks to participate in an official match. The festival has been their St. Patrick’s Day tradition since 2006 and continues this March 15. Sign up online at snowarriors.org. The cost is $40 for a team of four. Time slots are limited.

I’m sure some people are already tossing iron cannonballs down our local roads, but here we call it an arm day. Until we set up our own outdoor bowling league, Indian Lake is the mecca for Irish Bowling enthusiasts. I have a set of official bowling “bullets” in my attic. I am not sure what level of impulse buy I can blame that purchase on, but it seems like a perfect family reunion activity. May your days be many and your troubles be few.