On Saturday, Feb. 22, you could be crowned a champion in one of Wisconsin’s most beloved games – bags. A tournament at First and Bowl (2969 N. 114th St., Wauwatosa) is pitting bags ballers and cornhole connoisseurs against each other for a charitable cause.
Sierra Delta, a nonprofit focused on military veterans, is hosting the tournament to raise money for its efforts, including its Life Buddy program which supplies veterans with grants to hire dog trainers. Doors open at 9 a.m., with the tournament starting at 10 a.m. First-, second- and third-place winners will each receive a prize.
“The winter bags tournament is a collaborative effort involving people who, like us, love dogs and want to help veterans,” BJ Ganem, the CEO and founder of Sierra Delta, said in a press release. “We’re incredibly grateful. And we hope people who participate have lots of fun, too.”
The ticketed event costs $35 per bags player, $20 per spectator and $10 per child. With each entrance fee, competitors and spectators receive one free Bloody Mary, complimentary soda and pizza, unlimited access to additional games available at First and Bowl, and a free one-hour reservation at the venue in March.
The event is being organized with Hope for Heroes, a group that raises funds for veterans. Volunteer Danielle Ernst said she and friends began organizing fundraising events several years ago. “We didn’t serve, but we know a lot of people who have,” Ernst said. “So, we decided to do what could do to help them out. Some people bring a bunch of friends, families bring their kids, and some people just come for a chance to play bags and help a good cause.”
The event will also benefit Mutts on a Mission Wisconsin, which funds emotional support and therapy dogs for veterans, wounded warriors, law enforcement officers, first responders and others who serve.
To register for the tournament, text Danielle Ernst at 262-370-0733.
