IN Cranberry Fall 2019 | Page 17

n 2017, LumberjAxes introduced the increasingly popular activity of competitive axe throwing to the Pittsburgh area with its Millvale venue. The location remains the bustling gold standard, with 20 throwing lanes in a 7,500-square-foot warehouse space. Since then, LumberjAxes has opened a location in Mt. Lebanon plus two in the Phoenix/Tempe area, and plans to open in Cranberry and Monroeville this fall. “When we brought axe throwing to the area, we hoped our fellow Pittsburghers would enjoy it as much as we did,” says owner Corey Deasy, who specializes in bringing innovative entertainment to Pittsburgh, having also co-founded the area’s first escape room business. “They liked it so much, we’ve been able to expand. We’re excited for even more folks to get hooked on this wonderful sport.” Deasy’s interest in axe throwing was first piqued when he participated in an axe throwing tournament a few years ago. He had a blast—despite losing to his eight-months- pregnant wife. While axe throwing may seem like an edgy way to have a good time, LumberjAxes, a member of the National Axe Throwing Federation, adheres to rigorous safety regulations and creates a fun, welcoming atmosphere for adults of all experience levels. “Everyone, from old hands to newbies, is invited to come try it out,” says Deasy. LumberjAxes provides all the axes you can throw, and experts are on hand before each session to give instruction on proper technique. If you’re holding a special event elsewhere, LumberjAxes will even bring the party to you: mobile throwing lanes are available to rent. With the addition of Monroeville and Cranberry, LumberjAxes will have locations in the north, south, east and center of the Pittsburgh region. Deasy notes that the company would like to be considered to host a national axe throwing tournament, and with these four venues, they’ll have the capacity to do so. The Cranberry location will also bring something new to the table—the first axe throwing brewpub in Pittsburgh, serving locally made beer. “The main thing that sets LumberjAxes apart from other entertainment options in Pittsburgh is, well, the axes,” explains Deasy. “I wanted to create something that would get people on their feet, trying something new, and maybe even surprising themselves.” Beyond providing the novelty and fun of throwing axes, LumberjAxes distinguishes itself through a commitment to the visitor experience. “We’re proud to have introduced axe throwing to Pittsburgh, but we’re not going to stop there,” says Deasy. “We’re always thinking of ways to enhance the experience and bring it to more people. We know folks here are game.” For more information, or to book an event, visit axethrowingpgh.com. n CRANBERRY ❘ FALL 2019 15