With the start of Summer on Tuesday, most who think about Wildwood are dreaming of sunbathing and swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, but this week, the world’s eyes will turn to Wildwood’s national marble tournament.
The 88th National Marbles Tournament, which features 47 contestants from five states (including Pennsylvania), runs through Thursday, according to the Press of Atlantic City. The competition takes place on the beach at Wildwood Avenue, according to the tournament website.
Competitors play a game called Ringer, where they aim to knock seven marbles out of a circle using a marble shooter ahead of their opponent, according to the Press of Atlantic City.
The family-friendly event may only draw about 200 visitors, but the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority’s Beverly Trapp told the Press of Atlantic City that the tournament winner should expect a bit of fame.
“We get months of press. It causes a ripple across the country. Past champions have appeared on national television, including ‘The Tonight Show with Jay Leno’,” she said.
Winners receive scholarships, cash prizes, trophies, and perhaps most importantly, the annual champions are inducted into the tournament’s Hall of Fame, inside the Greater Wildwoods Chamber of Commerce building on Pacific Avenue.
If you’re up for seeing the conclusion of the action, the Press of Atlantic City reports that the finals will begin around 11:30 a.m. on Thursday.
