New Delhi, July 01: It's more like a bowling alley but those who play the game are different: people with disabilities. Called Bocce, it is a comparatively new sport introduced in India just two years back but has become a favourite among players with special needs. The game has been popular for quite some time in the US and other countries in the west and was introduced for the 'special athletes' some 20 years back. However, the sport has become very popular in India in a short duration which is proved by the number of gold medals clinched by India in the Special Olympic games, Dublin Ireland, despite their first endeavour in the sport at international level this year.
The game is played by the athletes with 'learning disabilities' as it enhances the eye and hand coordination of a player.
It does not require any great strength, stamina or quickness but much skill is involved, as the player can roll, toss or bounce the ball down the court provided the ball does not go out of bounds.

Players may also hit an opponent's ball out of court to obtain a point or decrease the other team's points.

Bocce can be played as a singles or doubles game or by a team of four.

The word 'bocce' is derived from the Latin word for ball, bottia. It is believed the game emerged during the roman period, when soldiers played with stones for amusement, and spread throughout the Roman empire.

Bureau Report