Hurry hard for local health care
Lindsay Curling Club 150th event to support RMH
From six-year-old beginners to 90-year-old veterans, curlers of all ages and abilities will take to the ice at the Lindsay Curling Club on Dec. 11-12 for a special 24-hour event celebrating the club’s 150th anniversary.
The signature anniversary event, 150 Ends of Curling, will run from 7 p.m. on Dec. 11 to p.m. on Dec. 12, with proceeds supporting several local non-profit organizations including the Ross Memorial Hospital Foundation.
“We are proud to support our local hospital as we know it’s a place everyone will eventually need at some point in their lives,” said Kelly James, club president and co-chair of the 150th anniversary committee, in a press release.
While the curling will run around the clock (yes, people will be curling at 3 a.m.!), the public is invited to a special open house running all day Saturday, Dec. 12, starting with a pancake breakfast, raffles, games, and curling demonstrations.
“We’re grateful to the Lindsay Curling Club for hurrying hard for local healthcare in this historic anniversary celebration,” said Erin Coons, RMHF CEO. “Community support like this helps expand and modernize ultrasound services close to home.”
Thanks to a matching challenge from FDC Foundation, all gifts to a high-priority ultrasound revitalization project will be doubled when the community raises $500,000 for ultrasound care, unlocking an additional $500,000.
Taking place on the anniversary of the club’s incorporation on Dec. 11, 1876, the fundraising event will see many curlers wear 19th-century attire in honour of the club’s history.
The club’s roots stretch back to the mid-19th century, when curlers gathered for friendly matches on the frozen Scugog River. Following its incorporation, the club began with just 10 members. In its early decades, Lindsay curlers earned a reputation for success, including in international competitions at the Winnipeg Bonspiel.
Growing and evolving over the decades, the club welcomed women as members in 1947, hosted a three-day bonspiel for Canada’s centennial in 1967, and made its building fully accessible to help more people enjoy the sport. Today, curling brings together people of different ages and abilities, including athletes in the Special Olympics.
“Curling can be enjoyed by everyone, and we hope anyone who has been curious about the sport will come to our open house on December 12,” said Deb Hatch, co-chair of the 150th anniversary committee. “It’s a chance to throw your first stone, learn about the leagues we offer and support some great causes.”
