Fun for All
Bullseyes, Bowling, & Beer
Words by Sam Lauron Photos by Eric Morales
For as long as axes have been in existence, humans have been hurling them, whether for survival, sport, or just for fun. But the act of axe throwing has evolved immensely from its primitive nature and, in more recent years, has even grown from a competitive sport to a form of entertainment.
Similar to throwing darts, combined with the camaraderie evoked from bowling, axe throwing was originally a league sport that was popularized in Canada. The activity eventually became accessible to the masses due to indoor axe-throwing venues popping up in major cities across the country, Austin included.
One reason for its popularity is because “there is some novelty to it,” says Earl Ball, co-owner of Hatchet Alley. He also believes that people are drawn to the activity because “anyone can do it, no matter the skill or athletic level.”
Founded by Earl along with longtime Austinites Will Pitts and George Launey, Hatchet Alley opened November 2019 next door to Callahan’s General Store. After working at another axe-throwing venue, Earl set out to open a place of his own, with a focus on creating an “Austin centric” space that reflected the laidback nature of the community.
More than axe-throwing
One step inside the massive 12,000-square-foot venue reveals 24 throwing lanes lining two walls along the front portion of the space. Further back in the building, just past the larger than life mural, is a section for bocce ball and football bowling, a sport as straightforward as its name that entails throwing footballs at bowling pins. The decision to include additional activities at Hatchet Alley was made because Earl wanted the space to feel more like an entertainment center than a one-stop-shop.
“We don’t want to tell people, ‘okay you’re done, now you need to leave,’ once they’ve completed their activity,” he shares. “We want people to hang out, finish a conversation on their own time, and enjoy the space for what it is.”
Whether visiting Hatchet Alley with a large group or as an individual, all participants have access to the same amenities. A coach will guide the session, providing tips on both proper form and how to safely participate as either a thrower or a spectator. But don’t think of them as chaperones. The coaches at Hatchet Alley are “upbeat, positive, and helpful,” says Earl, and are meant to be more like party hosts, making sure everyone is having a good time whether they’re throwing axes or playing a round of football bowling.
“That’s a big part of what we do here,” he explains. “It’s not just the activity itself; it’s the facilitation of enjoyment.”
For those hesitant to give axe throwing a shot, Earl encourages everyone to try it at least once, comparing it to karaoke. “I can’t sing, but I still karaoke,” he smiles. “It’s the same thing here. No one is judging you because you’re terrible at axe throwing—in fact, most people are. It’s just a fun time with friends, that’s the goal.”
Contact:
443 A Bastrop Hwy
(512) 383-5890
hatchetalley.com
@HatchetAlley
