[For Seniors] Lively and Exciting! Sports Quiz for Recreational Activities

21 points

There are various theories about the origins of baseball, but it’s said that the modern game was devised in the United States in 1839. At the time, the rule was something like “the first team to reach 21 points wins.” However, with a points-based rule, the game length could vary significantly. It’s said that chefs preparing food for the postgame celebration complained that they couldn’t predict the timing and thus couldn’t be fully prepared. The rules were later revised, leading to the style of baseball we have today.

Tottori Prefecture

Ground golf is played by hitting a ball with a dedicated club, much like regular golf. It’s a casual sport that doesn’t require advanced skills, making it popular among seniors. The rules are simple, but there are moments that demand focus, including concentrating on striking the ball. That element of enjoyment may be one of the reasons for its popularity.

9 pieces

Bowling is said to have existed in ancient Egypt, but the number and arrangement of pins varied. Later, it was standardized to place nine pins in a diamond shape, similar to today’s setup. As “ninepins,” it became popular in the United States as well. However, because it was used for gambling, a law was enacted that “prohibits ninepins bowling.” In response, the idea arose that using ten pins would not violate the law, and that’s how ten-pin bowling was born.

Boccia

Boccia, a sport that originated in Europe and whose name means “ball” in Italian, was devised for people with brain impairments or physical disabilities. Regardless of disability, it’s a game everyone can enjoy across age and gender. Recently, it seems that elementary school children and older adults sometimes play together. It also serves as a way to connect with people in the community.

For preventing shoe theft

Bowling experienced a major boom in the 1970s. Today, there are still broadcasts of women’s professional leagues like the P-League, and back then there were televised matches too, with some players becoming very popular. The bowling outfits worn by players on TV also drew attention and became a craze. As a result, there were a series of incidents in which rental shoes were stolen from bowling alleys. In response, the colors and designs were revised, leading to shoes that were less likely to be stolen.