Lou Freedman of Bocca takes his turn at the cornhole tournament.

MARGATE – The inaugural spring Margate Cornhole League kicked off the season with matches at four locations around the city on a blustery Monday night. Not even an early evening rain shower could dampen the spirits of 42 teams comprised of 84 players vying for the championship at the conclusion of the five-week regular season and playoffs.

The Margate Business Association, along with host sponsors Bocca, Maynard’s, Robert’s Place and Ventura’s Greenhouse, welcomed competitors and friends to their establishments, boosting business on an otherwise quiet Monday evening.

The competition was fierce but good natured and all the participants raved about the fun they had despite the drizzly conditions.

“What a great event for our city,” Dana Hiltner, a sponsor and player said. “The Hartman Home Teamhad so much fun last night and is proud to be a sponsor for the Margate Cornhole League. We hope that this is something that continues every season and we look forward to being a part of it each and every time.”

Margate businesses and restaurants are lucky to have such a creative association to bring unique events like this to our area, she said.

“Thank you MBA and can’t wait for next Monday.”

Each team played two games, with seven games occuring concurrently. New matches started approximately every 30 minutes.

Winners received two points, losers received one point. An overall point differential will be used for playoff seeding and tiebreakers.

Standings can be found at www.margatehasmore.com.

The regular season will conclude Monday June 7 (weather permitting) and all teams will qualify for the playoffs and seeded based on points accumulated. The final four teams will automatically be qualified for the cornhole tournament at Beachstock with $1,000 awarded to the winners.

A summer league will start play on July 12 and registrations will be accepted soon at the MBA website. Cost per team is $80 and includes a T-shirt.

For more information on how to become a sponsor or more details about league play, contact mba@margatehasmore.com.

Categories: Downbeach

Nanette LoBiondo Galloway

Award winning journalist covering news, events and people of Atlantic County for more than 20 years.