SPL LIVING
A Century of Shuffling Starting with two courts in 1924, the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club celebrates 100 years and surviving a tumultuous history. Historic photos provided by St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club
BY MARCIA BIGGS St. Petersburg is known for many things — world class murals, craft breweries, beautiful waterfront parks, and the Tampa Bay Rays. What may come as a surprise is a little known fact — the Sunshine City is home to the oldest and largest shuffleboard club in the world. Drive into the heart of downtown on I-375 and along 4th Avenue N. and it’s hard to miss the courts of the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club, especially on Friday evenings when bright lights shine down upon a mainly local crowd who gravitate here for some casual open play. In a city that was once referred to as “God’s Waiting Room,” things are decidedly looking a lot younger and hipper at the century-old club. Yes, there are still those famous green benches lining the courts, but this is not your grandad’s shuffleboard club. A permanent grandstand now seats hundreds of spectators who come to watch regular tournaments and even world competitions. Last October, the Club hosted nearly 100 players from eight countries for the 40th World Shuffleboard Championship. The Club in the 40’s and 50’s was buzzing with activity.
14
StPeteLifeMag.com
January/February 2024
