Curling: It's not just for old men

"Curling is boring." "Curling is for parents & old people." "If I never see the inside of a curling rink again, it will be too soon."

For the first 30 years of my life, this is what I thought. My parents were avid curlers. I practically grew up in the curling/hockey arena in Camrose, Alberta. I think I could say the word "bonspiel" before I could say my own name. I hated it immediately.

In December 2004, I bought Tim Horton's Brier tickets for my mother for Christmas. She insisted on taking me to the first day. I tried to get out of it.

Saturday morning, March 2005; Edmonton, Alberta; Rexall Place. I was prepared to be as miserable as possible.

Then I started paying attention. These participants weren't that old! Some of them were downright young. (This was my first introduction to Brad Gushue's rink.) I was now old enough to start understanding strategy. I was completely & thoroughly entertained.

Despite being sick with the flu that day, and having to smuggle in my Tim Hortons steeped tea (and spilling it), I was converted. In the almost 5 years since that Brier, I have attended other local curling events, and watch it regularly on CBC.

While I wouldn't exactly call myself a fan, I am definitely changed. This February will see me glued to the curling coverage Whistler, fireplace roaring, Tim Hortons large steeped tea in hand. Now that I've grown up, what could be better?
hide