The new owner of the Nechako Lanes Bowling Alley is sparing no expense.
The lanes, which are the oldest in Prince George, just changed hands at the start of the month, and renovations are already well underway.
“As you can tell, the front of the building got a complete facelift,” Michael Giles, the owner of Nechako Lanes, told My PG Now.
“It is going to be a complete refresh,” he said. “People who bowled last year here will notice quite a few changes. A few of the bowlers have been by, and what I have shown them so far – they are quite amazed, and they are still going to be surprised when it opens.”
Nechako Lanes was first put up for sale in late 2019 by Cathy and Les Wahlund, who had owned the bowling alley for 19 years.
Giles, who started bowling leagues at Nechako Lanes in 2017, said he was interested in buying the business from the start – but between some health issues and the pandemic it was not the right time.
Through the next couple of years, Giles still kept his eye on Nechako. “COVID was basically done with, and last year my health issues got resolved, I revisited the potential of buying the business,” he said.
“I basically wanted to come out of retirement, and after last year’s health issues, I said ‘well, I want something to do.’ And this was perfect!”
Giles has already re-painted the outside of the building, the ball returns, and some of the walls inside. He plans to replace the countertops and upgrade the kitchen as well. (Turkey will not be on the menu).
These renovations have the business closed for the time being, but Giles has big plans for a grand re-opening over the August long weekend.
From Friday (August 4) to Monday (August 7), Giles said the lanes will offer free bowling to kids 12 and under and half price bowling for people 13 and above, and all food and snacks will be half price.
“It is to entice people to come in and try out bowling, and maybe consider joining a league,” he explained. “Not only do we have adult and senior leagues, we also support YBC (Youth Bowling Canada) bowlers as well. It is a great venue for kids to come in, take up an interesting sport, and make some new friends.”
He added that tournaments for all age groups are held around the province from the fall to the spring, and the sport offers plenty of chance for travel and competition as well as casual fun.
“Let’s celebrate the fact this establishment has been around for 70 years,” Giles said. “It has had a long tradition in Prince George, and I plan to keep it going until I retire, hopefully the next person that takes it over will continue to go. I would like to see it reach 100 years, at least.”
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