Let the games begin! Councilman Mark Cuthbertson (center) tosses the first ball to open the competition.

Sunday, August 29th was the 3rd Annual Town of Huntington vs. Town of Babylon Bocce Tournament, hosted by Huntington Councilman Mark Cuthbertson and Babylon Supervisor Steve Bellone. Bocce players from both Towns spent the day at Elwood Park socializing, analyzing their game strategy, enjoyed a delicious luncheon courtesy of Sbarro's and cooling refreshments donated by Waldbaums Store #236, Wall Street, Huntington.

The weather was warm but the courts were hot! Twenty-five four-person teams showed up along with friends and families to participate in this ever popular growing event. For some, it was like a reunion -- meeting up with players and spectators from previous tournaments, but when team numbers were called on the courts for their turn in competition, all bets were on!

Bocce, an old world sport that has similarities of bowling, shooting marbles and the precision of golf, proved to many this year that it's not just luck but skill, in tossing a five inch ball that weighs more than two pounds down a narrow 76 foot long dirt court. Whether you're aiming for the pallino (a smaller white sphere that looks like a cue ball) or trying to get your opposition's ball out of the way, it certainly is not as easy as it looks!

Councilman Cuthbertson commented, "This tournament grows larger year after year and the friendly, yet competitive matches are great to watch. This year, the Town of Huntington brought home trophies for first, second AND third place!" Over 200 people in attendance had a great time and so many people mentioned how they are looking forward to a rematch next year! Special thanks once again to Sbarro's and Waldbaums for contributing to this event's success.