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7/31/2007 03:29:00 PM

Bowling for Cairo

Italian archeologists have uncovered evidence that throwing stone balls along a lane might have been a popular game in ancient Egypt. It could be viewed as an early precursor to bowling, especially given the stacks of moldy rental sandals found nearby.

O.K., that's not true, but the game seems to have been a mixture between bowling and billiards and was likely played by two competitors standing at opposite ends of the lane and each tossing a ball at once, a big one and a smaller one. It's actually pretty complicated so you should read the story if you want more information, or if you're just looking for a brief distraction as the trade deadline counts down. As I am.
posted by SI.com | View comments |  

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Posted: July 31, 2007 4:06 PM   by Anonymous
It is obviously a precursor to the great game of Bocce. Though it sounds more refined than the beginning of the sport of Polo as winessed by Michael Caine and Sean Connery in that terrific film "The Man Who Would Be King".
Posted: July 31, 2007 4:23 PM   by Rickapolis
I like that it resembled billards. The nickname 'Luxor Fats' has a certain ring to it.
Posted: August 1, 2007 5:18 AM   by Anonymous
LOL...Moldy rentals sandals. Did they have a "IX 1/2:" on the back?
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