It’s been less than a month, and already CJ’s Hangout is drawing a destructive crowd… in the very best way!
Southeastern Manitoba’s only axe-throwing and rage room is now open for business. Owned and managed by Jennie and Colin Williams, this enterprising couple has turned the former D&G Archery Range into a brand new attraction for those looking to gather with friends, try something new, or relieve a little stress.
“One night, my husband and I were talking about what’s around Steinbach for teenagers to do, or for young adults to do,” Jennie Williams shares. “Or even for older groups, anything where we can get together, socialize, and mingle like we all used to. And we couldn’t think of much.”
Boasting seven axe throwing lanes and two rage rooms, CJ’s Hangout is a great place to spend time with friends, go on a date, have a bachelor or bachelorette party, or even resolve family conflict.
“Smashing things is therapeutic!” Williams says. “It could be really good for when, you know, there’s an argument that nobody can win. Here, you can compromise… or let off some steam.”
There are no special skills required- all visitors need to bring is a good attitude and closed toe shoes.
“When you come in, you’re going to be greeted by our staff, who will go through the waiver form with you. We supply all the safety gear, so you’re going to look like the Michelin man.” Williams continues. “You’re going to have a full body suit, with a face mask and gloves.”
To keep everyone safe, guests will not be permitted entrance into the rage room until protective gear is put on.
“When you get into the room, you’ll have the options of a bat, a sledgehammer, or a crowbar. You’ll also be given a milk crate full of small, breakable items, roughly 20 to 25, plus a larger item, like a printer or a coffee maker. You can throw it at the wall. You can hit it. You can bang it against the floor. It does not matter.”
Guests are encouraged to bring a playlist of smashing hits to hook up to the provided Bluetooth speaker to really set the mood.
Most smashable supplies are supplied by Local Matters Thrift Store, but CJ’s also takes private donations.
“We take pretty much everything, even appliances like dishwashers and stoves. Dressers, coffee tables- you name it, we’ll take it.”
While starting a business from scratch is time consuming, Williams does admit that she’s spent some time sampling her own services and practicing her aim.
“Oh absolutely I have, and I have a blast. At first, I was not very good- I definitely had to hone my skills a little bit. But after a while, you really get into it, and you just end up having a lot of fun with it.”
Guests must be a minimum of 10 years of age, and party rates are available, with a maximum capacity of 65 people. Book online, call 204-320-0003, or walk in with your fingers crossed… and there just might be a free spot for you.
