Hanna curlers throw rocks early
By Gwen Snell
Hanna Curling Club members got their season going early this year and were throwing rocks on November 1. Returning icemaker Sheldon Morgan has the ice in "tip-top shape again," and the club has three regular leagues off and running, according to Club President Tanner Kautz.
"Currently, we have three regular leagues running: Seniors on Monday morning and afternoon, Mixed League Wednesdays and Men's Thursdays and drop-in curling on Wednesday afternoon. We are going to try and fill Thursday with either a mixed doubles league or a triples league. Triples is a newer game where three players throw two rocks each and switch positions every two ends, so if you start throwing the first two stones, you will throw the last two stones in the last end. It is a great way for new curlers to get a chance to try every spot."
Last season, the club hosted Olympic Curler Kevin Martin for an evening dinner and two curling clinics. Although it was a great evening, it is not something the club can host every year. However, they are hosting A Curling Alberta provincial event - the Ladies Club Curling Championship on March 7 to 10. Volunteers will be required to host, but it promises to be a great event for the club and spectators.
Attracting new or returning curlers is always a priority. Kautz is hopeful that there will be some U15 or U18 teams as a result of the JC Charyk Monday sessions with students. He's also encouraging new members to join the leagues, as there are several people willing to help teach the game. "It's more about getting out seeing people and having a little fun. If you don't think you are able to get into the hack to throw a rock, that's no problem; try with a stick for a while and see how it goes."
Trina Hernden is operating the concession, providing lunch for seniors curling and Wednesday evenings for meals prior to the mixed league, as well as during bonspiels.
Hanna Farmers Bonspiel is slated for January 17 to 20, and the Mixed Bonspiel will be on February 9. The first bonspiel of the season will be the Seymour Cup on November 17 and 18th. The lounge will be open for spectators during bonspiels as well.
Anyone who is interested in a league can contact Tanner Kautz for Men's, Everett Reed or Kirsten Richardson (403) 854 0334 for mixed. Triples are encouraged to contact Tanner Kautz at (403) 854 0324. For more information, stop into the club or visit their Facebook page.