Do you enjoy bocce ball or shuffleboard? What about the challenging strategy of chess? If so, then chances are good that you’ll love the popular sport of curling! The game is easy to learn and is great for individuals or groups of all shapes, sizes and skill levels. Over the past few years, the sport has become quite a hit as part of corporate or group events since it caters to everyone, is somewhat competitive in nature, and most importantly its safe and fun!
Don’t worry if you don’t know the game. Our local group of curling experts will teach you all of the skills necessary to make your first attempt a rock smacking success, and Hollywood Curling will provide the stones and brooms you’ll need!
Details of the game include:
• Curling is a team game. Local teams are organized by members as they are for bowling or golf leagues and can be categorized into mens, ladies, couples, juniors, seniors, or family groups. Teams can also be organized for special competitions or groups of any age or skill level. Curlers interested in state, national and world competition can enter many events to sharpen their skills.
• Each team has a skip that acts as team captain and strategist. Strategy is a major factor in curling and is as important as shooting skill. Some people call curling "chess on ice".
• Each player shoots or delivers two stones at each end, or inning, alternating with their counterpart on the opposing team. Curling is designed to allow play in both directions. All four team members shoot two stones at each end and sweep for their teammates' shots. While one player shoots, two sweep as needed. Sweeping polishes the ice so the stone travels farther and vigorous sweeping requires fitness.
• The object of shooting is to get the stone, or rock, to come to rest at a predetermined place (a draw or guard) or to move another rock (a takeout or raise). The score is determined after each end of 16 stones. A 12-foot circle, the house, is the scoring area. Stones in the house must be closer
to the tee (center) than any opposing stone to score. The maximum score in one end is eight points. Typically, one to three points are scored.
• Games are 8 or 10 ends, lasting 2 to 2.5 hours. We can also arrange individual skills competitions and practice drills.
• Curling equipment includes a specially made broom or brush (clubs often furnish brooms for new curlers). Many curlers wear colorful curling sweaters, but any loose fitting, layered clothing can be worn. Special curling shoes are available but not mandatory. Shoes should be flat soled, clean, and should grip the ice well for walking. For the delivery, a "slider" should be worn on the sliding foot to allow a long, smooth-sliding follow through.
Costs for a Curling Event at The Valley Ice Center in Panorama City are as follows:
Groups of 25 participants or fewer: $250/hr
Curling Club equipment and instruction fee (In addition to ice fees.)
10-20 Participants: $200
20-30 Participants: $250
30-40 Participants: $300
40-50 Participants: $350
50+ Participants: $400