Bring on the bags
4/13/2016
This is a call out for all the sedentary athletes, armchair analysts and excuse makers who love competition and have a sharp tongue for stirring the pot. We’re talking, of course, about the Midwest’s unofficial sport: Bags (cornhole, for some).
With warmer weather on the way, it’s once again time for the Des Moines Bags League at Riverwalk HUB. Sign-up for the summer league has begun, and those interested simply need to grab a partner and get in touch with the Des Moines Parks and Recreation.
“Anybody can play, as it takes zero athletic skill,” said Jennifer Fletcher, marketing supervisor with the Des Moines Parks and Recreation. “You can have conversations while playing and make new friends.”
The league began in the fall in 2013, and while the event takes place at the Riverwalk HUB, the bags league is organized by the parks and rec department.
For those who have been living under a rock, the Riverwalk HUB is a unique, award-winning display of architecture along the west bank of the Des Moines River — easily one of the more unique event spaces in town. This makes this a perfect spot for a bit of downhome fun. The juxtaposition of artful architecture and a game made of raw materials and beanbags gives one the impression of wearing a sports jersey to a black-tie affair.
“It’s all about fun, socializing and a little competition,” Fletcher said.
The centralized location right on the river makes it a great place for entertaining, she added.
The Des Moines Bags League takes place during the course of six weeks. Teams of two adults (18 and older) race to a score of 21 — playing a set of five games. Match times range from 5:30-8 p.m. and will be determined after all of the teams have been finalized.
While league play won’t begin until June 8, that means competitors have time to brush up on their games.
Everyone is playing for a combination of “fun and the thrill of victory,” said Fletcher. “We give first- and second-place medals to leagues as well as a post-season tournament. Last year, the league was split into recreational and competitive divisions.”
As Fletcher mentioned, this is really anybody’s game. The important thing to remember is your duo has as much a chance for the big trophy and the title of Bags League Champion as anyone else. If you don’t believe it, just check out a match for yourself.
“The craziest thing I’ve seen in a match was when a team was down 20-1, took a bathroom break, refreshed their beverages and came back to win 21-20,” said Fletcher. CV
SUMMER LEAGUE
Des Moines Bags League
Registration period: Now – May 27
Cost: $35 per team
Six-game schedule plays Wednesdays or Thursdays starting June 8 from 5:30-8 p.m.
For additional information, contact dmsports@dmgov.org