Founded in 1978, and a member of IGBO,
Not Ready For Prime Time (NRFPT) bowling league is an LGBTQIA+ social bowling league
based out of HP Lanes in Columbus, Ohio.
NRFPT (Not Ready For Prime Time) Bowling league started back in the 1970s, making it one of the oldest continuously running leagues in OH. The name was derived from the original Saturday Night Live skit (Not Ready for Prime Time)
During that time our gay brothers and sisters had no outlet to meet and form friendships outside of the bars. Congregating outside was still very hard as a community and targeted for violence. With that being a challenge, and with the incidence of the Stonewall riot, NRFPT was born. This was a place for individuals to meet in the “daylight” and outside of the bar venue. Starting from humble beginnings, the league grew into over 20+ four-person teams. It has moved a few times; Mr Bill’s, Holiday Lanes, and finally to its current venue, HP Lanes. NRFPT currently has an average of 14 teams, starting at 7:30pm on Monday evenings. The league has had competition with other sports leagues and other bowling leagues in the Columbus area. The area is very fortunate to have an accepting and growing population where we can play all types of sports. There is literally something for everyone and at all skill levels practically every day of the week. League fees (costs for lane rental, USBC requirements, etc) are about the cost of a couple drinks- less than $20 per week. The league season is 28 weeks, running from Cooler September, the first Monday after Labor Day, into the 2nd week of April. We’re a handicapped score league - putting everyone on the same level rankings. You can bowl with an average of 100 pins and have the same possibilities to win as someone with a 200. Over the years, many lifelong friendships have been formed and even 2 “marriages” making this league a truly fun and maybe “life-affirming” time for all.
