The Barriere Curling Club held a No Ice Social and potluck for members and guests on Saturday, Feb. 15, in the rinks upstairs lounge.
The purpose of the social was “to reconnect with the curling community”, and that is exactly what they did.
The potluck was an amazing array of numerous tasty dishes and delicious desserts, a no host bar, and active conversation and socializing.
After the meal, club president Brian Bondar informed the group that thanks to a number of organizations that have come forward with funding, the ice chiller has been ordered and it is hoped to have usable ice in the rink by the beginning of March.
At this point, everyone was then encouraged to take part in the “No Ice Olympics” which were held in the rink area.
Teams were formed under the flags of Canada, the United States, Germany and Russia, and each group was encouraged to cheer on their teams.
A highlight event was the biathlon, a winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting.
Skiis were quickly constructed from cardboard boxes, string and duct tape, with some ingenious additions such as plastic beer cups. Teams had to ‘ski’ around the rink, and then stop and take three shots at a target, then ski across the finish line.
Great hilarity ensued during the event as the cardboard skis caused problems, a little good natured cheating was noticed, and rival teams harrassed the competitors.
In all, it was a uniquely fun and entertaining way to spend an evening at the curling rink.