Bowling isn’t over in Boca, even though Strikes@Boca has closed. The 64-lane bowling alley off Military Trail will not reopen, the owners have confirmed.
Bowling alleys were still closed under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ phase 1 reopening orders. So, Strikes couldn’t have opened until Palm Beach County is included in phase 2. That’s expected to be eminent, County Mayor Dave Kerner said Friday.
So what bowling’s future look like Boca?
A company coincidentally called Strikes 10 is constructing a 10-lane bowling alley in the former Uncle Julio’s restaurant in Mizner Park. No opening date is set yet, according to a spokesperson for the complex. Strikes 10 was originally slated to open last year.
Here’s the Mizner Park tenant announcement in late October 2018: “Strike 10 Bowling will bring a truly unique entertainment concept to downtown Boca with an ultra-modern bowling experience, full bar and upscale American cuisine. Strike 10 Bowling will offer 10 regular and two mini lanes and a large bar and lounge area. Strike 10 Bowling in Mizner Park will be the franchise’s second U.S. location.” There’s a Strike 10 in Gulfstream Park racetrack in Hallandale Beach.
So what will happen to the bowling leagues who called Strikes@Boca home?
They’ll have a choice of bowling alleys in Tamarac, Margate or Boynton Beach. And the seniors have decided to take a year off, said Debralyn Belletieri, who owned the alley with her husband Ronnie.
It’s not clear what Boca Helping Hands’ annual Bowling for Bread fundraiser will do now. Bingo night to benefit the American Association of Caregiving Youth went online July 10. Debralyn Belletieri is treasurer of the AACY board.
By Marci Shatzman
