Written By Jan Sims
ILDERTON - As the cooler weather arrives, so does curling season. And Ilderton Curling wants to help people who may be interested taking up the sport, get a taste of why this is one of the most popular activities in Canada.
This month, Ilderton Curling is hosting Learn to Curl clinics at its rink adjacent to the Ilderton Arena, where experienced instructors will guide people through the basics of throwing, sweeping, and how to play the game. “Curling is a sport that few people start as children, so Learn to Curl clinics are for people of all ages,” says Director of Operations Laura Leitch.
The first of several clinics takes place from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday October 12th. The cost is $30. For registration information visit ildertoncurling.com. “Participants can expect to get a very quick overview of the basic techniques of curling presented by our wonderful instructors from Western Ontario Curling Resource & Training Centre. There will be some time for instruction, a chance to try your new skills, and even a quick game to end the three-hour session,” says Leitch.
Ilderton Curling has players from age six to those in their 90’s. “Curling is a game for people of all abilities, and it is easily adaptable. While sweeping can be high intensity, and the traditional slide can demand a lot from your leg muscles, curling is a game that can be played at almost any pace. Lots of curlers use throwing sticks so they don’t have to get down into that slide, we even have an entire league where all players must throw with a stick,” says Leitch.
As well as being a good source of physical activity, curling is also a very social sport. “After games, players sit in the lounge with their opponent for some social time, so it’s a wonderful way to get to know people, and be a part of a community,” says Leitch.
