Ottawa tourists play at Stirling

20 Canadian Curlers were welcomed by ĺocal Stirling curlers at the Peak where 16 Stirling curlers took to the ice to play the Ottawa Valley curling in 4 games on 26th October 2022. 

Dougie, the ice man, had prepared great ice and was presented with a plaque and envelope as a thank you from the Ottawa Valley Curling Group.

During the game the Canadian curlers who were spectating at this game and Scottish couriers were given a tour of the NCA facilities as arranged the with Dave Murdoch, Head coach of NCA. John Heron, NCA Ice technician answered questions from our Canadian visitors and information relating to the building and ice preparation for our Scottish and British curling squad.

After the game, the Canadian curlers who had been playing were given the NCA tour and  Dave Murdoch answered questions, Jennifer Dodds Olympic Gold medalist 2022, had brought her Gold medal in and our visitors were treated to photographs with Jennifer and her medal. She also answered questions from our very appreciative Canadian visitors. 

The results of the games ended with Stirling and Canada both having won 2 games, and lost 2 games. Total shots were 26 for both countries.  So a very diplomatic end to a very successful morning and enjoyed by everyone. 

After the games and visit to the NCA 8 Stirling curlers joined us for lunch at The Gloagburn Farm Shop for lunch before we and the Canadian curls went onto Perth to play an afternoon session.

A big thank you to both Marcus Wood who initially helped with the Stirling organisation followed by Joe Kincaid who greatly helped with providing Stirling curlers from different curling clubs ( Falkirk,  Dollar, Firth Valley Ladies, Kilsyth and more) and helping with the final details to make the morning a success.

Also thank you to Lauren from the front door cafe, who provided us with a welcome hot drink on arrival and refreshments throughout the morning.

This just leaves me to say a big thank you to you all again for all your help. The Scottish home curlers and our OVCT visitors very much appreciate all your time and company which led to a very enjoyable and successful morning. Best regards, Isobel Hannen