Written By Jan Sims
ILDERTON - Curling Day in Canada was a sweeping success in Middlesex Centre. The annual event was marked by enthusiasts of the sport across the country on Saturday February 22nd, including members of the Ilderton Curling Club. “Curling is a unique sport, which has a long history in Canada, yet a lot of people don’t know much about it and have never had the chance to try it. Curling Day in Canada is a time when curling facilities all over the country open their doors and welcome everyone into their house!” says Laura Leitch of the Ilderton Curling Club. “It’s also a chance for a fairly humble sport, with deep Canadian roots to celebrate all things curling!,” adds Leitch.
The day began with a pancake breakfast, along with an open house throughout the day. “Curling Day in Canada is a national day of celebrating curling, and the life-long connections made possible through our sport! Curling rinks across the country participate by putting on all kinds of events. Everyone at Ilderton Curling feels that our connection to the community is important, and we want to make sure that everyone knows they are welcome,” says Leitch.
A highlight of the day was a jitney held in the afternoon. For those not familiar with curling, a jitney is a small curling event that’s all about fun. “It’s a great way for people to try curling in a game, a good time for curlers to bring out friends and family, and a nice way to curl with people who may play in other leagues that you don’t see very often,” says Leitch.
The Ilderton Curling Club is enjoying what Leitch describes as an “amazing season” this year. The club boasts some 600 members who range in age from five to ninety-three. “We have Little Rocks and Juniors leagues for kids, daytime leagues for seniors, Learn to Curl and Novice leagues and lots more curling. We have a robust paracurling program (with athletes representing Ilderton at Provincials), this year we started a youth paracurling league, and we have Special Olympics curling. We provide an opportunity for sport, social connection and community, and everyone is welcome,” says Leitch.
The curling season remains busy for the club into March, with a ladies bonspiel and the Shamrock Shenanigans spiel among the highlights. “Everyone is welcome to come out and watch the curling, and fun!,” says Leitch.
