Cameron Orr
Get ready for a double’d up bonspiel in Kitimat next week.
The Aluminum City men’s bonspiel, and the Snowflake women’s bonspiel will be run together in one weekend and organizers are hoping to see an even better turn out than last year’s 25 teams — representing 100 players.
Gary Mouland says they’re still recruiting teams to compete but, based on last year, most teams join fairly close to the cut off.
Last year was the first year the bonspiels returned after an absence.
It’s a regional event with teams coming in from Terrace, Smithers and other communities.
The event begins January 22 where local teams will play. The event would continue for full days the 23rd and 24th following.
While Mouland says he’s working to build up the roster of competitors, perhaps just as equally he hopes people simply come to the curling rink just to watch. He said the restaurant will be open for food service too.
“It’s free entertainment. There’s no charge,” he said.
He hopes that by having spectators come by people may be inspired to become curlers themselves.
He said many sports are having difficulty recruiting new members but in curling’s case it’s seeing a bit of a resurgence due to its exposure on television.
He said a lot of the younger players who join or visit on Friday night drop-ins have either played a little bit in high school or otherwise have seen the sport on TV.
Anyone wanted to know more about curling can call Mouland at 250-279-4444.