Oliver breathes life into the historical Canadian game of Crokinole.

It has been only 4 years since the first Crokinole Championship Games were played in Oliver, yet that has been long enough for the Oliver Tournament to be recognized as one of the best by both skilled and novice players. History may be rewritten this Saturday when some of the best players in the world will be testing their skill with hopes of earning the BC title.

Oliver’s own 2011 double champions, Linda Irvine and Lou Dobos, will be facing the undefeated Ontario doubles champions, as well as a number of other teams from many provinces. The amazing 16 year old Quin Eizinger, of Penticton, currently the BC singles champion, will be tested by some of the best players in the world. Brian Cook of Ontario who has earned the world title three times and is expected to win, but  there is Adrian Conradi who held the championship in China from 2007 to 2011. Or what about Summerland’s favorite Ed Ripley. Or one of the unknowns like Jodie Good of Kelowna. I personally have watched all of these people play and find it very hard to make a prediction. It would be nice to see the title stay in BC!

What I do know is that anything can happen on tournament day and its never over till the last shot.

The silent auction has great items and is open to everyone… players and spectators as well. Proceeds help cover tournament costs. So, if you’d like to do some bidding at the Silent Auction, or just come and watch some great competition, the Oliver Parks and Recreation Center is the place to be on Saturday. Almerio’s Pizza will be on site all day, so you can treat yourself to some great tasting pizza and a cup of coffee while you’re there.