Irish Road Bowling returned to Connecticut for the first time in five years as Hartford Division 2 sponsored a tournament on Saturday, July 17. Over 30 teams and 120 participants took part in the 2021 Hartford Irish Road Bowling Tournament at Riverside Park in Hartford.
The event raised money for the charities that Hartford AOH supports, particularly in the area of hunger. It was also a great day of camaraderie among AOH Brothers from across the state and others who took part in the event.
Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin was in attendance to throw out the “first bowl” and addressed the contestants at the starting line. A number of AOH Connecticut State Officers were in attendance, including State President Brenden Walsh.
The team led by Brother Brendan Sullivan of the Hartford Division won the tournament followed by the second place team of Brother Rory McGloin, also of Hartford. Third-place went to Danbury AOH, who won a hotly-contested tied breaker over four other teams.
Following the awards ceremony and a raffle drawing, contestants socialized at the Hartford Food Truck Festival and at nearby Vaughan’s Public House, who offered discounts for contestants. “Two for the Road” – a local favorite Irish band – performed as did the “Mulcahy Academy of Irish Dance.”
The tournament will now be held on an annual basis and we look to grow the number of teams involved!
Irish Road Bowling returned to Hartford for the first time in five years. 
“The Jersey Girls” were one of over 30 teams that took part in the event. 
The tournament was enjoyed by experience bowlers and first-time participants in the sport. 
Riverfront Park provided a scenic course for Irish Road Bowling. 
Hartford Brothers Kevin Morton and Kieran Devenney (in hat) were the marshals at the finish line. 
The first place trophy. 
Hartford Brother Linus Deasy (in blue hat) and his team were part of the bowl-off for third place. 
Another picturesque view of Riverfront Park for Irish Road Bowling.
All Photos by Nick Caito
