Ron and Linda Watson, owners of Oakville's Hopedale Bowl, first bought the centre in 2007. Nearly 20 years later, they're now the newest inductees into the Central Ontario 5 Pin Bowlers' Association (COBA) Hall of Fame.
The induction took place last weekend, as part of COBA's annual Hall of Fame gala in Streetsville. The organization is also a member of both the Ontario and Canadian 5 Pin Bowlers' Associations.
Inductees are elected into one of three categories in the Hall of Fame, with Ron and Linda entered into the "Builders" category for owners and operators of bowling centres in Ontario. (The other two categories are for "Players" and "Legends", both for athletes in the sport.)
"I see this induction as a culmination to 18 years of community," says Ron. "I’ve always seen Hopedale Bowl as much more than just a bowling centre. It is a gathering place that holds a special place in the heart of the local community."
Linda mentions her gratefulness to that same group, saying "it's an honour to be recognized by our bowling community."
Hopedale Bowl was first opened in November 1959, and celebrated its 65th year of operation just a few months ago. Back in 2021, Oakville News was on site as the bowling centre was presented several special honours following their delayed 60th anniversary party.
Read more here: Hopedale Bowl receives several honours for their 60th anniversary
Highlights from the ceremony included a special slideshow of highlights from Ron and Linda's history with the sport, including rarely seen photos of their early days at the bowling centre, and several of Linda competing as a high school bowler (something she's now passed on as a coach for youth bowling leagues here in town.)
According to the COBA board of directors, Ron and Linda were chosen for "their unwavering dedication and remarkable contributions to the sport of 5 Pin Bowling. They have left a lasting legacy on our zone, members, and bowlers across the country by providing a supportive environment where all can thrive."
Dave Post, the Vice President of the Ontario 5 Pin Bowling Association (and former President of the Canadian 5 Pin Bowlers Association) was on hand to speak at the ceremony, saying on behalf of the board of directors, "We congratulate Ron and Linda."
"Induction is an honour bestowed on individuals who have excelled in their field of expertise," said Post, "and proprietors play a huge part in the growth of our sport. Ron and Linda have both exceeded those expectations, and we thank them for all they do."
Hopedale Bowl is open daily, including hosting several leagues for varying ages and skill levels.