The 2017 Ladies Town and Country Funspiel brought 18 teams to the St. Paul Curling Rink bright and early on Nov. 4.
And while the primary reason of the bonspiel is to allow curlers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the sport itself, there is also another fun, light-hearted element to the funspiel.
"This year’s theme was Pampered in Pyjamas,” explains one of the organizers, Alma Noel. "It was a fun and comfy ladies day out for 18 teams.”
Ladies dressed up in matching pyjama outfits that ranged from minion, racoon, and elf onesies, to ladies in nightgowns with curlers in their hair.
Organizers were happy to see a number of younger curlers take part in the bonspiel, which bodes well for future events.
"We were super happy to see so many junior curlers take part this year. It’s always nice to see the younger generation enjoy the game and the spirit of the day. It truly is a ‘FUNspiel' as two of the three games each team curled had alternate rules for scoring that allowed for any team, young or old, new or seasoned to have a chance to win,” explains Noel.
Along with the actual bonspiel, ladies enjoy lunch together, and a catered supper. There are thank you treats, team photos are done for participants to have as souvenirs, and a bunch of prizes available to be won.
"The support from the local community for this event continues to be amazing,” says Noel. "We truly couldn’t make something like this happen without all the love shown to us by local business." The event also reciprocates the love, but supporting local businesses in return, to make sure all the details are taken care of. A number of volunteers and sponsors are also needed to make sure the bonspiel, and upcoming curling season in St. Paul are a success.
Results from the funspiel are:
1st - Jamie Hall rink
2nd - Tamara Attanasio rink
3rd - Joanne Doucet rink
Results from the costume contest voted on by each participant in the spiel:
1st - Jamie Robinson rink
2nd - Jamie Hall rink
