The 41st Cleveland Challenge Cup of Bocce is coming up. The annual event is scheduled for Aug. 22-24 at the Wickliffe Italian-American Club. The tournament will host 120 teams (104 open division and 16 women’s division) and showcase world-class players from across the United States and Canada. Players will vie for more than $34,000 in competition on nine covered courts.

Last year’s champions – both from Ohio - are returning to defend their titles. 3 Men & A Puppy from Mentor won the open division while the women’s-division winner was Dirty 30 from Warren. The competition kicks off with recorded national anthems of the United States, Italy and Canada by Giovanni Castiglione of Solon. Homemade Italian specialties, traditional American favorites from local food vendors and a full bar will be available.