IN Shaler Fall 2019 | Page 19

n 2017, LumberjAxes introduced this increasingly popular activity of competitive axe throwing to the Pittsburgh area with its Millvale venue. The location was Pittsburgh’s first axe throwing venue and remains the largest in the region, with 20 throwing lanes in a 7,500-square-foot warehouse space. Now, the company has opened a second location in Mt. Lebanon. “I founded LumberjAxes in 2017,” says owner Corey Deasy, who specializes in bringing innovative entertainment to Pittsburgh, having also co-founded the area’s first escape room business. “When we brought axe throwing to the area, we hoped our fellow Pittsburghers would enjoy it as much as we did. They liked it so much, we’ve been able to expand. We’re excited for even more folks to get hooked on this weird, 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,” 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. Like the Millvale location, the new Mt. Lebanon LumberjAxes provides a rustic escape in the city, whether you’re celebrating a party or just letting loose with friends. However, while Mt. Lebanon gets a brand-new venue, the LumberjAxes location in Millvale recently got an upgrade. Deasy and his team worked with HGTV Design Star finalist and fellow Pittsburgher Luca Paganico to add elements that will transport visitors to a cabin in the woods, including raw lumber and pallet-board details, barrel tables, forest wallpaper and rustic antler chandeliers. “The main thing that sets LumberjAxes apart from other entertainment options in Pittsburgh is, well, the axes,” says 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. “From making rustic renovations to introducing Cosmic Axe Throwing nights complete with black lights and glowing axes, we’re always looking for new ways to make a memorable visit,” says Deasy. With continued success, LumberjAxes has plans to open locations in Cranberry and Monroeville later this year. For more information, or to book an event, visit https://axethrowingpgh.com/. n SHALER ❘ FALL 2019 17