HISTORY OF CURLING

THE CURLING GAME

The object of the game is to place your team’s stones closest to the centre of the target circles, called the “house”. The curling sheet is a long piece of ice with a house at each end. Each team throws 8 stones in an “end”, alternating shots with the opponent. An end concludes when all 16 stones have been played and the score has been counted. Only one team scores per end. A game usually consists of 8 ends, and takes about 2 hours.

The true origin of curling remains a mystery. However, there is no doubt that the Scots nurtured the game, exporting it to many countries around the world wherever they emigrated. Curling began in New Zealand around 1873 when the first club was formed in Dunedin. There are now about 35 clubs in New Zealand, most in Central Otago, the traditional home of New Zealand curling. Auckland Curling Club was formed in 1996, the first club in the North Island. New Zealand competes for the PacificAsia Curling Championship each year and has qualified to play in the World Championships 5 times. A New Zealand Men’s team competed in the Winter Olympics in 2006 - the ultimate goal for any curler.

The “hacks” are the footholds in the ice for the delivery of the stone. Pushing from the hack with more momentum changes a shot from “draw weight” (a stone stopping in the house) to “takeout weight” (removing an opponent’s stone from the house). The curling stone weighs about 20kg and is made of granite. However, the curling delivery does not requite the stone to be lifted, so any size or aged person can easily play the game. Sweeping polishes the ice and reduces friction, to allow the stone to travel further and straighter. Prior to the game, the two teams shake hands wish each other ‘good curling’. Then the fun begins!

THE EQUIPMENT

THE CURLING TEAM

A curling team consists of four players: the lead, second, third and skip Each player delivers two stones alternately with the opposing team member, beginning with the lead. During the delivery of each stone the skip calls the shot, two players sweep the stone (as needed), and one player throws to the target broom.

The Auckland Curling Club provides the curling stones. Each player requires a brush (used to balance when delivering, for sweeping, and for skips as the target for players throwing the stones). The club provides brushes. Any clean, non-slip shoes can be worn. Most curlers use a slider on one shoe, to aid the delivery of the stone. Sliders can be pulled over the shoe and removed as desired, and are also provided by the club. Warm clothing and loose-fitting trousers are recommended.

CURLING AT THE AUCKLAND CURLING CLUB

Beginners and experienced players are welcome. Bring your friends or join and meet new friends at the club. Singles, couples or teams can take part. Groups can also book curling for special occasions. Make curling a part of your active lifestyle this winter. Join the club today.

LEARNING TO PLAY

Learning to curl is easy and fun! In May at the start of the season clinics are held for all levels of players. During the season further instruction is also available. And you learn as you play.

CURLING OPTIONS

Want to try the coolest Olympic sport? • We can find you a team to join or sign up as a ‘Spare’ for occasional games. • ‘Have-A-Go’ for beginners (with instruction) at 5:30 or 7:30 on Sundays. • Curling league, 5:30 or 7:30pm Sundays. • Secondary Schools Competition, Thursday nights. • Socialise with club members after games. • Coaching is available

CURLING

NEW ZEALAND’S COOLEST OLYMPIC SPORT

• Work, Corporate or Clubs are welcome for special occasions.

AUCKLAND CURLING PLAYS AT PARADICE ICE RINK, 150 LANSFORD CRES, AVONDALE

Our season runs from April/May though to October every year. New regular and casual players are always wecome to join our league. Pre season introduction and training sessions are ideal for new curlers.

AUCKLAND CURLING CLUB

For more information email [email protected] Check out the Auckland Curling Club website for more information and club team draws for the league season. www.curling.org.nz and click on “Auckland”

WELCOMES YOU