Origin

Waawaate Club was founded in 1941 by C.L. Boulos as a private athletics and Northwoods exploration group. The Club has since evolved into an invitation-only social club for serious athletes and explorers.

Boulos was sent to America as a child who could not speak English and had zero inherited capital, education, or social standing. During his life - operating entirely on a combination of supreme conviction, entrepreneurial instinct, and hard work - he became one of the most consequential independent business owners and community stewards in northern Illinois. He is remembered for his extreme generosity. His family businesses, founded in 1921, continue to operate today under Thana Holdings LLC.

Notable Club History

1943 - Members win the Illinois state bowling title. “The best bowling team ever to come out of Elgin.” (Elgin Daily Courier-News, February 28, 1952). Members held the city title for 10 consecutive seasons.

1999 - Member completes an Arctic expedition in Nunavut, Canada.

2016 - Member receives Outstanding American award from National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

2022 - Member completes the Moab 240.

2026 - Member qualifies for the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii.