Nestled in the heart of Sunny Isles Beach there is a competition taking place amongst friends, both old and newly acquainted. The competition is mostly friendly. It takes place each winter when the weather in Sunny Isles Beach is pleasant in comparison to the frigid temperatures elsewhere. Most will tell you they come purely for the lively conversation, light hearted ribbing and to experience a little adult fun in the warm embrace of a Sunny Isles Beach winter. But, with each measurement being meticulously calculated, scores tallied, and records of both triumphs and defeat being maintained; this isn’t just Bocce. This is “The” Sunny Isles Beach Bocce League and Tournament.
The Sunny Isles Beach Bocce League has encountered significant growth and popularity throughout the years. As there are many participants that return each season, the league is quickly drawing interest from newcomers too. Just this past season, newcomers Lucille Giganti and Victor Passacantili happily named “The Bostonians” won the coveted first place trophy. A remarkable accomplishment considering the team they beat, “The DJs” – Joseph Mignella and David Pearson, were undefeated throughout the season – a flawless record of 30 wins.
In a nut shell, the game of Bocce is lawn bowling. The game of Bocce evolved from as far back as the Roman Empire. Play involves tossing a small jack or “pallino” in the form of a sphere within a designated space. Teams of two or four players attempt to throw a limited amount of bocce balls nearest the pallino. Points are awarded to the player or team that has the most bocce balls nearest the pallino. It’s a simple game to play and a whole lot of fun!
The Sunny Isles Beach Bocce League takes place each January – February. Games are played each Thursday for six weeks, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm at Senator Gwen Margolis Park. While the City does not have any official bocce courts, the artificial turf at Senator Gwen Margolis has proved to be an accommodating surface. The courts are painted each season to support games. Bocce is a FREE program for residents and $20 for non-residents. Registration opens in November.
WALKING FOR WELLNESS
Were you aware that the City of Sunny Isles Beach offers a free wellness program for residents? The City of Sunny Isles Beach Walking Club is offered by the Cultural and Community Services Department. The goal of walking club is to provide a fitness forum for adults that understand the connection between exercise and better health. Walking club is offered during the months of November – February each year. The club walks the trails of Senator Gwen Margolis Park every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9:00 am – 11:00 am. While every mile walked is recorded to showcase each walker’s progress in distance and time, the overall objective is to encourage healthy exercise habits. Walkers are supplied pedometers for the duration of the program or they are free to bring their own. In addition to walking, participants are led through a variety of stretches and heart-healthy exercises.
Our City sports and wellness programs are beneficial, inclusive, memorable, and most importantly fun! Whether you are a beginner, a seasoned player, or simply want to make new friends or get in shape, check out City of Sunny Isles Beach Sports. You will be amazed by yet another treasured experience courtesy of your City.
For registration or more information for these or other programs, contact the Cultural and Community Services Department at (305) 792-1706 or visit us on the web at sibfl.net.
