Wednesday Open 8 Ender

I know what you're thinking. Who did the caricature of Brian West? Well, that's not him, Brian's hair is not brown but he does have a similar moustache with the Movember thing going on. Plus, Brian does not deliver with the Manitoba Tuck! There's only a few of us at the BRCC and we are scarce!

The Wednesday Open 8 Ender only had 3 games this week with one game cancelled.

Ice B: John Hammond vs Tom St Jules. WIN for St Jules. Big Daddy has had a tough start but that is only a temporary thing and this win shows just that. This team will always give you a tough match. They win the "Gittin' It Together" Award.

Ice C: Hayley Horton vs Glen Austin. WIN for Austin. The Junior Ladies suffered a tough loss BUT the upside is, they are learning how to lose and that is more important than winning. Learning to battle back is a skill and they are destined to acquire this ability. They win the "We'll Keep Pluggin' Away" Award.

Ice D: Ryan Hagger vs Warren Neufeld. Win for Hagger(?)  I am not 100% sure of this but I think the Hagger rink pulled out the win. And if I am correct, that's a big win against a very tough team. The Hagger crew provide an entertaining game for whoever they play against. Lots of rocks in play and interesting shots. They win the "It's All About The Fans" Award.

So that's it for another week at the Wednesday Open Ender. I see names are already up on the Boxing Day Spiel. Get your team in there and take part in this longtime BRCC Boxing Day Tradition.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! For alot of this coming up at the BRCC. Please consult the board and sign up to help out at these events. The BRCC needs your help.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Tuesday Ladies

Awesome set of wheels for the right lady. Certainly a head turner! and there were lots of head turners at the BRCC on Tuesday as the Ladies League continued to jostle for position on the leader board.

Ice A: Liz Rouselle vs Shirley Lemieux. WIN for Rouselle. The Rouselle rink has had a good run so far this season. Lots of wins posted. They win the "Comin' On Strong" Award. Nice job ladies.

Ice B: Marg Tivy vs Anita Moran. WIN for Moran. The Iron Bridge Belles had their hands full with the tough Moran crew. Most likely a quieter ride back to the "Bridge". They win the "Bruised But Not Broken" Award.

Ice C: Christine Scholburg vs Myra Kiernan. WIN for Scholburg. This Scholburg squad are really something. This is a new squad but they are tough and they have been winning alot! They win the "Keepin' The Momentum" Award. Well done ladies!

Ice D: Makayla Alloway vs Joanna Hammond. WIN for Hammond. The Hammond crew has come into their own for sure this season. They are posting some wins and playing better games every week AND building confidence as well. It can be seen in their play. They win the "Who's Next?" Award.

Ice A (Late): Christie Hagger vs Beth Laderoute. WIN for Hagger. The Hagger crew continues to steam forward and certainly must be seen as one of the tougher squads out there. They win the "Holdin' Our Own" Award.

Ice B: Annie Austin vs Hayley Horton. TIE GAME. It is interesting to watch the Junior Ladies improve. They have close games and remain focused in the game. I have to applaud these young ladies in the way they carry themselves...very personable. They win the "Personality Plus" Award.

So that's how it played out for this past Tuesday.  I have not tallied all the wins / losses for this league but I know right off the top of my head that there is a jumble at the top of the leader board. It will be interesting to see how it all hashes out at the Xmas break.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Monday Mixed

Christmas is coming hard and fast. It's already the end of November and  there is snow on the ground here in the North Shore Banana Belt. The Poster for the Blind River Boxing Day Spiel is up at the club. This spiel is a BRCC tradition and there is always alot of teams participating and this really is a fun time. AND, it's only $48.00 a team. As always, there is a spaghetti supper to go with the curling and a dance. Get signed up early, this is a really popular spiel!

Ice A: Brian West vs Bob Villeneuve. WIN for Villeneuve. With Bob back from his sun search, this team is feeling the motivation. They win the "Climbin' To The Top" Award.

Ice B: Francois Lemieux vs Glen Austin. WIN for Lemieux. The Monday Newfie Bullet was slung off the tracks and therefore wins the "we Be Needin' An Overhaul" Award.

Ice C: Jerry Jensen vs Michel Rivard. WIN for Jensen. The Rivard crew have been having some good games but just can't seem to get the breaks when they need them. They win the "Curling Gods, Stop It!" Award.

Ice D: Dan McMillan vs Al Viel. WIN for Viel. I believe that this is the first loss for this Red Hot McMillan team. They have been on a roll. They win the "We Lost Some Air, But Our Bubble Is Not Burst" Award.

So that's how it played out this past Monday. And speaking of the Mixed, I was talking to Brian West last night about the BRCC Mixed Spiel coming in February. I know it is still November, but the BRCC Mixed is going to fill up fast so you need to get signed up early. Brian will be putting the poster up in December so watch for it.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Thursday Mens

I know what you're thinking. How come Stephane Lemieux is dressed up as Marj Simpson? Well that's not him. Steph is taller and cross dressing is not his thing. Curling IS his thing however, in spite of the fact that Steph is taking a year off from the Roaring Game. And we miss him around the BRCC but he'll be back. He's a curling chronic and he will not be able to resist the curling sirens forever! And for sure, Steph is missing the Thursday Mens league. Lots of games going on week after week.

Ice A: (Monday):  Rick Berthelot vs Francois Lemieux. WIN for Lemieux. The Bionic Boot pulled out the win in this come from behind effort. Good comeback for the Lemieux crew and they win the "Power Of Positive Thinking" Award.

Ice B: (Tuesday): Brian West vs Keith Rouselle. WIN for Rouselle. The Molson Exers have won some and lost some but are on the plus side for sure. The boys have game and they win the  "Always In The Wind" Award.

Ice C: Chris Astles vs Yvon Valiquette. WIN for Astles. The Valiquette squad have not had the start that they had last season but these guys are a solid team and can easily get on a roll. there's lots of curling left yet. They win the "No Reason To Panic" Award.

Ice A (Thursday): Dave Mitchell vs Glen Austin. WIN for Mitchell. The Mitchell crew are having an awesome season. They remain unbeaten this year. Not surprising for this veteran squad. Richard Olmstead throws second for this team and he makes a TON of shots for his team. And Gator Fortin continues to be the strong vice that he has always been. These guys got some serious game. They win the "To Infinity And Beyond" Award.

Ice B: Ryan Hagger vs Mike Laderoute. WIN for Hagger. The Hagger squad have played some tough games this year. They pulled off a good one this week getting by the red hot stick of Mike Laderoute. The Hagger rink is another one of those dark horse teams. They are going to get on a roll and I can see them as a serious playoff contender.

Ice C: Bob Villeneuve vs Rick Rouselle. WIN for Villeneuve. Big win for the Villeneuve squad, toppling the unbeaten Rouselle rink. This may be the beginning of the come back run for Team Villeneuve. They win the "Gathering Steam" Award.

Ice D: John Hammond vs Jim Kendrick. WIN for Hammond. The Hammond rink is right in the thick of things on the leader board. They win the "Floatin' In The Soup" Award.

Ice A (Late): Al Viel vs Brian Tonelli. WIN for Viel. Despite a slow start, the Viel rink continues to be upwardly mobile and has been on a good run for a while now. They win the "Back Where We Belong" Award.

Ice B: Dan Berthelot vs Michel Rivard. Win for Berthelot. The Berthelot crew has been having some good seasons. Last year this squad had a solid showing and this year promises to be more of the same. They win the "We Be Jammin'" Award.

Ice C: Jeff Mitchell vs Ben Lemieux. Win for Lemieux. The Robb Road Express is having an excellent season. This veteran crew has got it together and it is showing. They win the "We Be Gellin'" Award. Great job guys.

Ice D: Chris Zagar vs Craig Roberts. WIN for Roberts.  The Roberts crew have broken through and are now moving upward. This squad is a perfect example that time brings improvement. These guys are playing good games and you never know, Craig might start wearing curling pants and then the metamorphosis will be complete. These guys win the "Movin' On Up" Award.

So that's how it played out last Thursday. Interesting shuffle on the leader board still going on with three more weeks until the Xmas break.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

CURFFLE?
It is a form of curling, with a shuffleboard point system and was created by the Clarkes on Manitoulin Island  (where it is played with as many as 60 to 70 teams).
The BRCC had a curffle bonspeil on Friday and Saturday, as a fund raiser for the Blind River District Health Centre (monies will go to toward purchase of a large scale ultrasound machine, a portable ultrasound and garden improvements for Golden Birches.) 
Chaired by Cathy Jensen, 18 teams ( of 2 people) participated, and what great fun it was. The game goes quickly, sometimes played in less than an hour, and the enthusiasm of all the players made it a real success. It was so nice to see new faces in the club, some who had never curled before, and a couple of people who had never stepped foot inside the facility. 
When the spiel was over, spaghetti dinner was served, and everyone went home with a prize.
If you or any member of your family have ever used the BRHC, mark this spiel on your calendar for next year. Give up your weekend ( just Friday night and Saturday) of other activities and come out to this event.   Next year we should aim for at least 32 teams.  Support your hospital - it is an essential service in our community and we all need it.
Also, Hayley Horton was the winner of the draw to the button from our club and she showed a lot of heart in her one and only shot with no sweeping and out on the ice all by herself.  Congratulations on your achievement, Hayley.
Maymar

Wednesdsay Open 8 Ender

And there they are! Those crazy road sign guys, caught red - handed! And to answer a previous question, they got all the way to the L before it clued in. A head scratcher for sure. But they weren't scratching their heads at the BRCC last night. They were curling in the Wednesday Open 8 Ender.

Ice A: Glen Austin vs Andrew Roberts. WIN for Austin. With Mike Laderoute at the helm, the Wednesday Newfie Bullet took the win. Mike is a pistol with that stick and he wins the "Stick Skip For Hire" Award.

Ice B: Vola Roberts vs Ryan Hagger. WIN for Hagger. With Mark Bender at the helm, the Roberts crew took on a tough squad and came up a little short. But, this is only their second time playing this season, I'm finding out so really, their season is just starting. They win the "Better Late Than Never" Award. Welcome back!

Ice C: Hayley Horton vs Warren Neufeld. WIN for Neufeld. With dad, Chad, filling in for Hayley, the Bantam Juniors played a good game but were forced to accept second by the Incredible Neufeld crew. These guys and gals are in the curling zone. Never ever a push over, the Neufeld rink is having an excellent run. They win the "Untouchables" Award. Great job!

Ice D: Al Viel vs John Hammond. WIN for Viel. Good win for this Viel crew. They have had to overcome some obstacles this season as they are a 3 person team. Al has recently recruited new curler, Kyle Murray. Looks like his perseverance paid off so Al wins the "Christopher Columbus" Award.

So that's how it played out on Wednesday Evening. Lots of Curling action left this week as the Thursday Mens is back on the sheets tonight and there's another story in itself. Lots of jockeying for position on that leader board. Lots of good teams and lots of up and coming teams. An excellent mix making an excellent league.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Tuesday Ladies

I know what you're thinking. Is Kristy Blanchet the boss? Well, that's not her but she does wear the white hat at the BRCC (metaphorically speaking). She's the president of the BRCC again this year and works pretty darn hard for our cool little club. She's there alot and is always doing her best to see that things are running well at the BRCC. Of course, she's got the other board members behind her and it's their effort that makes it all work and we continue to be a strong club in a small town.

Thanks to Mike Laderoute and Richard Lachapelle for getting a sheet of ice ready for us for a Mixed Doubles game. It was the only game that was being played late so it was good of these guys to set us up. And speaking of Mixed Doubles, I have been playing a few games now and it's awesome. It's a faster game with only 5 rocks being thrown per side. I think a one day tournament would get alot of teams out to play in a cash spiel type of set up. Two person mixed teams playing Mixed Doubles. I'm going to put up a list at the  BRCC to see how much interest we could get going for this. Believe me, mixed doubles is a neat game. Lots of finesse shots and an excellent way to practice your skills. If you see a list up and are interested in a one day thing, sign up and let's see where it goes!

The Tuesday Ladies were NOT playing Mixed Doubles. They were playing regular draw and jostling for position on the leader board.

Ice A: Makayla Alloway vs Christie Hagger. WIN for Hagger. The Hagger crew are in a solid position on the leaderboard and why  not, they are a solid team. Donna Lediett throws second stones for this squad and I cannot remember if I mentioned it before, but this gal can curl up a storm. She makes alot of shots for her team. She's a regular at the BRCC and she plays at least twice a week. She's living proof that practice helps! She wins the "Big Gun" Award.

Ice B: Hayley Horton vs Marg Tivy. WIN for Tivy. With Hayley absent, Akeeshia Trudeau took the helm but could not muster the strength to overtake the Red Hot Iron Bridge Belles. These ladies are on a tear posting the wins like they are goin' out of style. They win the "Rip-Roarin'" Award.

Ice C: Christine Scholburg vs Joanna Hammond. NO INTEL. I am not sure what happened here. The Hammond rink are a newer team and have been looking to find their place on the leader board. They are playing better games and with the enthusiastic players on this squad, good things await them. That's why they get the "Yellow Brick Road" Award.

Ice D: Liz Rouselle vs Paula Sommers. WIN for Rouselle. The Rouselle rink seems to have found their mojo and are moving up the leader board. This is another tough team and they will be contenders for top spot I should think. They win the "Red Bull" Award because this team has wings.

Ice C (Late): Anita Moran vs Shirley Lemieux. WIN for Moran. The tough Moran rink is another crew that are in a good position on the leader board. It's been a great start for these ladies and rightly so, these are veteran players so they can make shots. They win the "Other Big Gun" Award.

Ice D: Beth Laderoute vs Myra Kiernan. WIN for Kiernan. Myra and her rink posting another "W". This is another team that has the potential to place themselves at top of the leader board. They win the "Comin' On Strong" Award. This is another team to watch.

So that's how it played out for this Tuesday Ladies. With 4 more games left until the half way mark, lots of room for teams to get on a roll and juggle the leader board.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Monday Mixed

This person was in a rush. At what point will they realize what has happened. This is proof that haste makes waste. There was no one being hasty at the BRCC last night at the Monday Night Mixed but they were Hurryin' Hard all the same!

Ice A: Glen Austin vs Al Viel. WIN for Viel. In a come - from - behind effort, the Viel squad knocked the Monday Newfie Bullet off the tracks and into the bush and that's why we bet the "Caught Snoozin'" Award.

Ice B: Michel Rivard vs Sandy Milroy. WIN for Milroy. Tough night for the Rivard crew last night. Michel wins the "Lookin' For A Bigger Broom" Award.

Ice C: Francois Lemiuex vs Brian West. WIN for West. I noticed Nancy making lots of shots in this game which I ma sure helped guide her team to the win side. She wins the "La Pistola" Award for the week.

Ice D: Jerry Jensen vs Gator Fortin. NO INTEL.

So that';s how it played out for this round of Monday Mixed.

I noticed that the sign is up for the BRCC Ladies Spiel going off on Jan 25 - 27. This year's theme is Woodstock so get your hippy happenen' and get in the groove because there's always a groovy time at the BRCC Ladies Spiel. Make a plan for this one because for sure it will not disappoint. The BRCC ladies are excellent planners and it will, without a doubt, be a fun time.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Thursday Mens

Those crazy road sign guys are at it again. They are everywhere! It must be quite the contract. Great entertainment. And there was great entertainment at the BRCC, as usual, on the last Thursday Mens.

Ice A (Monday): Dan berthelot vs Ben Lemieux. Win for Lemieux. The Robb Road Express is having a pretty good season. Typical for a veteran team. They win the "We're As Good Once As We Ever Were" Award.

Ice C (Tuesday). Chris Zagar vs Dave Mitchell. WIN for Mitchell. Although forced into second place by the current club champions, the Zagar crew had another great game. They kept this one right to the end by making shots. That's why they win the "Who's It Gonna Be" Award. These guys are ready to break through, it's just a matter of when.

Ice D: Al Viel vs Keith Rouselle. WIN for Viel. A close game right to the end, the Molson Exers could not pull this one out. Still a good start for these guys all the same. They win the "We've Fallen But We Can get Up" Award.

Ice A (Thursday): Mike Laderoute vs Rick Berthelot. WIN for Laderoute. Mike is back helping his crew post a win. He is pretty confident as a stick curler. He wins the "I'm Wielding The Big Stick" Award.

Ice C: Bob Villeneuve vs Craig Roberts. WIN for Villeneuve. The Roberts rink is another rink that is quickly coming into their own. They are playing some tough games and it is just a matter of time until they start handing out some second place finishes. They win the "Chompin' At The Bit" Award.

Ice D: Glen Austin vs Francois Lemieux. WIN for Austin. The Thursday Newfie Bullet still on the tracks upending the Lemieux squad. Frank  is still floatin' on a cloud after the successful showing of his play, Stinkin Thinkin. This might be distracting his focus from the Roaring Game a bit. He wins the "Torn Between Two Lovers" Award.

Ice A (Late): Yvon Valiquette vs Rick Rouselle. WIN for Rouselle. The Posties are tearin' up the league. They are out there playing good curling and winning their games. They win the "Steam Roller" Award.

Ice B: Ryan Hagger vs John Hammond. TIE GAME  This was a high scorin' dog fight. A close game with lots of rocks in play. Must have been entertaining to watch. If I recall correctly, I think this is the second time that the Haggar crew has been involved in a high-scoring shoot out. They win the "Go Big Or Go Home" Award.

Ice C: Jeff Mitchell vs Jim Kendrick. WIN for Kendrick. After bursting out of the gates, the Mitchell rink is forced into second place by the Kendrick squad. This new Mitchell team shows all the signs of being a tough nut to crack this season. They win the "No, No, We're Fine!" Award.

Ice D: Chris Astles vs Brian Tonelli. WIN for Astles. A tough night for the big guy. The Tonelli crew are just coming off a win but could not post the "W" for this one. They win the "Baby Steps" Award. Slow and easy wins the race every time.

So that's how it worked out for this past Thursday Mens. The leader board is heatin' up with 4 weeks left before the half season mark. Time is just flying by.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Wednesday Open 8 Ender

Here's my big question. At what letter did the painter get to before realizing the spelling error. Was the "O" already down and so they figured. "Oh well, what the heck".... or did they paint the whole thing, pack up and drive away not realizing at all? At the BRCC, spelling is the least of our concerns. We are thinking curling and spelling is not a big thing in this sport..you just gotta know how to add your points! And they were all adding their points on Wednesday at the Open 8 Ender.

Ice A: Tom St Jules vs Al Viel. WIN for St Jules. Big Daddy pulls out the win. After an uncharacteristic slow start, Big Daddy and his squad are back to their usual selves and looking to get on a roll. They win the "Back On The Track" Award.

Ice B: Andrew Roberts vs Warren Neufeld. WIN for Neufeld. With Andrew and Natasha away, Craig and Heather Roberts came to have a go at the Red Hot Neufeld rink. But to no avail, the Neufeld crew are in the curling zone and they are playing some good curling. They win the "Too Hot To Touch" Award.

Ice C: John Hammond vs Ryan Hagger. WIN for Hammond. The Hammond rink is a tough squad to get by. They always force you to make your shots or they will get away from you in a hurry. That's why they win the "Accountable Curlers" Award.

So that is how the rocks slid for this Wednesday night. Don't forget to drop by the club on Sunday, Nov 18   (2 - 5 pm) and "Show Your Stache". You could win a prize. Bring the whole family...prizes for all ages.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Tuesday Ladies

And in response to this finely written personal ad, I'm sure there was NOT a line up of prospective candidates lined up around the corner. I could see the cleaning fish thing as being an absolute bonus! And there are lots of Good Women at the BRCC. I'm not sure if they are ardent worm diggers but they good curlers. Lots of drama at the Tuesday Ladies last night. Some good games and a Bantam Breakthrough.

Ice A: Liz Rouselle vs Cristine Sholburg. WIN for Scholburg. Red and her crew post a 'W" in this week's column. They are middle of the pack as far as can see but with lots of games to play, they certainly have the potential to move to the top end of the leader board. That's why they win the "Full Of Potential" Award.

Ice B: Annie Austin vs Christie Hagger. WIN for Hagger. The Rez girls got up early but the Hagger rink battles back and pulled out the win. Some good ends in this game bu both teams so they must share the "Quality Entertainment" Award for this week.

Ice C: Hayley Horton vs Paula Sommers. WIN for Horton. This is the BIG news of the week. Big win for the Bantam Ladies in a well executed match....and me without my pom poms! They played well both individually and as a team. Great night for these personable young ladies. They win the "Playin' Like The big Girls" Award. Great job ladies!

Ice D: Beth Laderoute vs Anita Moran. WIN for Laderoute. Just back from a 2 or 3 week hiatus, Beth was at the helm and posted a well-deserved win against the tough Moran crew. Beth wins the "Just Like I Never Left" Award.

Ice B (Late) Makayla Alloway vs Marg Tivy. WIN for Tivy. With Malisha at the helm in place of her sister, the Alloway rink had a tough time with those Iron Bridge Belles. Once again, the Tivy team makes the drive from the Bridge worth the trip. They win the "Makin' It Pay" Award.

Ice C: Shirley Lemieux vs Myra Kiernan. WIN for Kiernan. It is no secret that you are bound to be in tough if you get into a draw game with Myra and her crew. Myra is the master of the quiet tap tap nn' draw game. She wins the "Soft Touch" Award.

So that is how it all played out at this week's Tuesday Ladies. Great entertainment put on by the BRCC Ladies, week after week.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Monday Mixed

Now I am NOT a wrestler but if I had to name this maneuver, I would have to call it the "Arse Ripper". Once again, just another reason why I curl. I might get a spanking from time to time but I have never had an arse ripper and I am not looking forward to having one anytime soon. The Monday Night Mixed League was out there again this week and although there were NO funky maneuvers, there was some good curling and some real good laughs.

Ice A: Jerry Jensen vs Sandy Milroy. WIN for Jensen. With longtime BRCC pal, Scotty Smith, at the helm, the Jensen squad pulls off the win against the tough Milroy crew. Lucy Ann Trudeau was throwing last for the Milroy rink but despite her best efforts, had to accept second. She wins the "Curling Doldrums" Award.

Ice B: Brian West vs Gator Fortin. NO INTEL. I'm not sure what the outcome of this match was but there is no doubt that there was a fun time for the entire 6 ends. The Fortin rink are awesome. They have game and they know how to have fun out there on the ice. The win the "Cloud Nine Curling" Award, winning is optional.

Ice C: Al Viel vs Francois Lemieux. WIN for Viel. The Viel crew wins this one minus Kristy Blanchet. Apparently she dropped a crock pot on her foot and broke her toe. Ouch...and she wins the "This Little Piggy Limped To Market" Award.

Ice D: Glen Austin vs Dan McMillan. WIN for McMillan. A convincing win for the McMillan rink as they sent the Monday Newfie Bullet careening off the tracks. This squad played an excellent game as a collective but Mary Shamas, in particular, made some real nice shots throughout the game and was instrumental in helping her team post the win. She wins the "I Took The Wind Right Out Of Their Sails" Award. Great job Mary.

So that's how it played out on Monday Night. And when the games were over, we all went out to brush the snow off our vehicles. With that reminder that winter is upon us, hopefully you get your snow tires on and make sure you are ready for the colder weather.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Curling Week and the BRCC

It's Curling Week November 17- 25. The BRCC is kicking it off on Sunday, Movember 18 from 2 - 5 pm with Come Show Us Your Stache. Yep, that's right, drop by the Blind River Curling Club this Sunday and show them your moustache. It'll be fun for ALL AGES! Bring the kids because  there will be prizes for Men's, Women,s and Kids. And you know the best part, it's FREE! Haven't got a moustache because you are 8, or because you are a woman who owns a "No No (have you seen that commercial?), then be creative a make one. Win a prize.

And that's not all that's going on for Curling Week at the BRCC. The NOCA is having a Draw To The Button Contest For the 4 Leagues that are on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, there will be a draw to the button where you could win $10,000.00. Awesome right? Everyone will get a chance to have a draw with the person putting the rock closest to the button will advance to compete against other club winners in the realm of the NOCA. So give it a try, you never know, $10,000.00 could come your way!

Come take part in the club's fun on Sunday. Great way to get out with the family.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Thursday Mens

Looking at this picture erases all doubt as to why I curl. Curling, like this, is a team sport but we just don't seem to require getting so up close and personal. We can function just fine at a distance from each other. And they were functioning just fine last Thursday at the Mens League. As usual, there were lots of good games being played but that is typical for this league.

Ice C (Tuesday): Ryan Hagger vs Francois Lemieux. WIN for Lemieux. The Bionic Boot snags another win over the newly formed Hagger rink. This is Ryan's first year at the helm in this league and looks to be enduring a few growing pains. Par for the course so Ryan wins the "Got Some Aspirin?" Award.

Ice D: John Hammond vs Ben Lemieux. WIN for Lemieux. The Robb Rd Express has been having a decent start to their season. They have racked up a few wins and this is not surprising for this veteran team. They win the "Set 'Em Up And We'll Knock 'Em Down" Award.

Ice A: Rick Berthelot vs David Mitchell. WIN for Mitchell. This Mitchell crew is red hot. They have been winning games like crazy this season. Certainly not the slow start they had last year. They win the "We're Just Gittin' Started" Award.

Ice B: Jeff Mitchell vs Keith Rouselle. WIN for Rouselle. The Molson Exers hand the red hot Jeff Mitchell their first loss, but it was no easy task. This Mitchell crew has had an excellent start to their season and hopefully they can keep it up. This loss this week is most likely a temporary set back and they win the "Keepin' It All In Perspective" Award.

Ice C: Glen Austin vs Craig Roberts. WIN for Austin. The Thursday Newfie Bullet coming off a loss last week is back on the track and steaming ahead. There is only room for 1 train on a set of tracks so they win the "We're lookin' For The Robb Road Express" Award.

Ice D: Chris Zagar vs Rick Rouselle. WIN for Rouselle but just by the hair on their chinny chin chin. The Zagar rink played an excellent game and brought this one down to the last shot in the last end. The Rouselle rink managed to pull off the win and they are shooins for the "Whew, That WAs Close" Award. Great showing by Team Zagar.

Ice A (Late): Chris Astles vs Alain Viel. WIN for Viel. The Viel crew has had a decent start to their season and are gaining momentum. They win the "Gittin' Wound Up" Award.

Ice B: Dan Berthelot vs Michel Rivard. NO INTEL. This one would be hard to call. The Berthelot squad are a tough crew to get by but the Rivard rink has 2 ice guys who know the ice. This one could have gone either way.

Ice C: Brian West vs Brian Tonelli. WIN for Tonelli. The Friendly Giant has broken through and posts a big win. That explains all the confetti on the highway 17 between Blind River and Iron Bridge. The big guy is just returning this year from a year off and now seems to be getting on track. He wins the "Look Up, Look Way Up And I'll Call Rusty" Award. (If you are younger reading this, you probably never got that).

So that's how it played out last Thursday. Always good games get played in this league. Thursday night is such an awesome night at the BRCC. What an excellent way to begin getting into weekend mode.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Wednesday Open 8 Ender

I think the crew who made this sign should have followed the road to the actual school. A bit of Readin', Ritin' and Rithmatic would not go astray. maybe this is some sort of subliminal message where students start thinking that school is cool. There were no subliminal messages at the BRCC on Wednesday night. Just curling, and lots of it. Some real good games got played. One game had such a high score, it could have qualified for basketball status.

Ice A: John Hammond vs Hayley Horton. WIN for Hammond. Well, the junior ladies took on a tough squad on Monday night. I watched their game as best I could from 3 sheets away and although they were down for most of the game, it was really impressive to see them not giving up. This team is growing, I can see it in them. Won't be long and they will be a tough little team. They win the "We Ain't Givin' Up" Award. Stay with it ladies. Remember, a cup of focus a day keeps the curling demons away!

Ice B: Christie Hagger vs Tom St Jules. WIN for Hagger. The Hagger crew is certainly coming into their own. These guys and gals play good curling and they are players to watch. They win the "Entering The Spotlight" Award.

Ice C: Vola Roberts vs Andrew Roberts. WIN for Vola Roberts with Al Gemmell at the helm. But this was the game qualifying for basketball status. With such a high score, it is safe to say that this was a dogfight the whole way. In the end, Andrew and his crew were forced to accept second place. But this is another team that has gelled and they are playing good curling and have become a solid squad. They win the "We Be Beatin' Our Chests" Award.

Ice D: Warren Neufeld vs Glen Austin. WIN for Neufeld. The Wednesday Newfie Bullet was knocked off the tracks by the Neufelds, who were firing on all cylinders for this match up. They had the advantage right from the start, however, since they have the Rose Factor and they win the "Rose Factor" Award. It is always advantageous to have Rose on your side regardless of what you are doing!

So that's how it played out this past Wednesday. The Open 8 Ender is a good league. It will be even better when it expands and I am thinking that there will be even more teams playing in this next season.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Tuesday Ladies

Here's more physics at work, but man, I don't know about this one. But I do know about the physics when you are on the ice. Brushing is a fundamental part of the game. And lots of physics. If you want a rock to stay straight or if you want it to go further, then brushing is the way to accomplish this. If you are a front end player, you should know that you play a paramount role in the game. Good brushing often makes the difference between a shot being made and one being missed. Knowing how far a rock is going to go is a skill but the ability to do this and relay this information to your skip helps the line call and allows a plan B call if necessary. The Tuesday Ladies League have some good brushers and they were out there this week making it work for their skips.

Ice A: Myra Kiernan vs Hayley Horton. WIN for Kiernan. The junior ladies are still pluggin' away at it. They took the loss BUT, they are having better games and that is how it happens. As they endure their share of losses, they are learning and there will come a time when they are going to start winning their share of games. One thing to be admired about these young ladies is their enthusiasm and desire to improve, both individually and as a team. Some of the experiences they take away from this will be life long. They win the "Reddest Backsides But We're Learnin'" Award. Keep up the good work ladies!

Ice B: Beth Laderoute vs Liz Rouselle. WIN for Rouselle. The Rouselle rink have had a solid start and I expect that they will hover near the top of the leader board. They win the "We're Back In The Saddle Again" Award.

Ice C: Christie Hagger vs Joanna Hammond. WIN for Hagger. The Hammond Newbies broke through last week with a win but had to take second place this week against the Hagger rink. This Hagger squad is a tough rink and they have some serious game. Christie Hagger has been at the helm for a few years now and she has loads of experience built up. She wins the "Poised To Strike" Award.

Ice D: Anita Moran vs Paula Sommers. WIN for Moran. The run continues for the Moran crew. These ladies have played some good curling and sit at the top of the leader board. Great start for these ladies. They win the "We Be Settin' The Bar" Award.

Ice B (Late): Marg Tivy vs Annie Austin. WIN for Tivy. In this come from behind victory, the Iron Bridge Belles prove once again that when they burn the gas to come from 'the Bridge", they are coming to play. And this veteran team can play. They win the "Road Trip To Victory" Award.

So that is how it played out last Tuesday. Signed up for the Curffle Spiel yet? There is still time! get your team in there. Call Cathy Jensen. Call Laurie Kendrick. Sign up on the list at the club. Lots of ways to get into this spiel.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

VIPs at the BRCC

Donna Lediett stands by while Abby Hagger makes the call and holds the broom. This is a typical scene on Tuesday evenings as the Little Rockers, and Bantams take to the ice to play and learn the Roaring Game.

And here's some Little Rockers. There are a total of 38 little Rockers and Bantams in all. Big job to help these young people. Just ask Kristy Blanchet, Tammy Lemieux and Christie Hagger. They are the main three people behind the Little Rocker / Bantam program and they are there every Tuesday doing their part. But they are not alone. Lucy Ann Trudeau is also there to help out along with several others like Donna Lediett, Rhonda Kirby, Nancy Kluding, Hasan Aziz and Jamie McLean. Awesome job guys and gals!

 

I have not mentioned this program or the people run this program, near enough over the time that I have been writing this blog. This is a big part of our club and indeed the sport, in general. These Little Rockers and Bantams are the curling future. While ALL may not end up staying with curling, many of them will, with some perhaps going on to be competitive curlers. The people who give their time to this are doing great things in the club and for the Roaring Game and they should be acknowledged for sure.

 

Rock On!

 

The Curling Chronic

Monday Mixed

There's lots of physics at work here. But the bottom line is that this guy's forward velocity is a greater force than the force wanting to push the front tire skyward. I'm sure Al Gemmell could clarify. There's lots of physics in curling too. The movement of the rock down the ice hosts a plethora of physics laws, as does brushing the ice. But at the end of the day, we all just want to make some good shots so whatever laws it takes, then OK...set those laws in motion. And they were setting all kinds of laws last night at the Monday Mixed.

Ice A: Francois Lemieux vs Gator Fortin. WIN for Lemieux, I think. The way these two teams were carrying on, they were having too much fun to actually concentrate on the score. But I do think the Bionic Boot managed to pull this one out. He wins the "Playin' Curling Like Pool" Award. It's all about the angles.

Ice B: Sandy Milroy vs Glen Austin. WIN for Austin. The Monday Newfie Bullet manages to stay on the tracks for this one. That's three in a row and that's good enough for the "Three Times Lucky" Award.

Ice C: Bob Villeneuve vs Al Viel. WIN for Villeneuve. Its been a tough start for this crew but they are now on the board and perhaps on the beginnings of a roll. They win the "Rip Van Winkle" Award. They just woke up late.

Ice D: Dan McMillan vs Michel Rivard. WIN for McMillan. The McMillan crew got some serious game going on. They prefer the stealth approach. They are quiet, yet effective and then you realize, "Hey, I'm in tough here!" They win the "Curling Black Ops" Award.

So that's how it played out this past Monday. So here is a suggestion:

Mixed Doubles: Ever wonder what it's all about? Want an excellent way to hone your shooting skills. What would you think of trying to start a Mixed Doubles League. Here's the rub, given the history of BRCC and weekend or Friday curling leagues, there are only 2 available times. Monday late and Wednesday late. And I think there are 2 available sheets on these nights. So, they would be late games. But what about it as a small, new league. I wonder how many would be interested in this? I have a Mixed Doubles game lined up for this Monday Night. We're going to try it against the Gemmells. My partner? Joanne Niganobe. She wants to try it as well. Hey, you know what. You might enjoy trying this too! If nothing else, what an excellent way to practice. Just a thought. If you see me around and you are interested, let me know.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Thursday Mens

Mr Earlobe...no hearing problems there! He'd make a good front end curler because he would always hear his skip yelling to sweep. Lots of skips calling their sweepers on this past Thursday in the Mens League. Lots of good games this week and some newer teams are on a roll!

Ice C (Monday): Rick Berthelot vs Craig Roberts. WIN for Berthelot. The Roberts squad had a real good game going. With the exception of 1 tough end, this game was any body's. However, the Berthelot rink pulled it out in the end. Craig and his crew have made big strides and are getting game. They win the "I Think We Found Our Mojo" Award.

Ice A (Tuesday): Glen Austin vs Rick Rouselle. WIN for Rouselle. The Posties were hot and in spite of a close game, the Rouselle crew managed to steer the Thursday Newfie Bullet off the tracks and into the mud. They win the "Who's Next?" Award.

Ice D: Al Viel vs Brian West. NO INTEL. Both these teams are strong so it would be hard to call this one.

Ice A (Thursday): Mike Laderoute vs Ben Lemieux. Win for Lemieux. The veteran Robb Road Express back on track and posting the wins.

Ice B: Dan Berthelot vs Keith Rouselle. WIN for Rouselle.  The Molson Exers post the win but only after a close game with the Berthelot rink. The Molson Exers are just coming off a loss so it was recovery mode for them. They win the " Thickening Up Our Curling Skin" Award.

Ice C: Bob Villeneuve vs Chris Astles. WIN for Villeneuve. This game was a barn burner. Bob made his last draw to secure the win but a great game played by both sides. Both sides win the "Game Of The Week" Award.

Ice D: Ryan Hagger vs Dave Mitchell. WIN for Mitchell. Just barely, as the Hagger squad played it right to the last. The Hagger crew is also a new squad but they showed they have game. They win the "Never Say Never" Award.

Ice A (Late): Jim Kendrick vs Francois Lemieux. WIN for Kendrick. The Bionic Boot and his rink came up shy on this one and the Kendrick squad posted the win. But that's OK with the Lemieux crew, you won't find them kickin' pebbles. That's why they win the "No Stinkin' Thinkin' Here" Award.

Ice B: Jeff Mitchell vs Michel Rivard. WIN for Mitchell. This is the big news! Jeff Michell and his newly formed crew have gone 3 straight. Excellent start for Jeff as he is full time at the helm now. They are shoo ins for the "Best New Team Of The Week" Award. Great job guys.

Ice C: Chris Zagar vs Yvon Valiqutte. Win for Valiquette. The Valiquette squad post the win and are surely itchin' to get on a roll. This may be the win to get them going. The Zagar crew played another good game and stayed in this one. They make lots of shots and are having good games. They win the "We're Gittin' The Hang Of It" Award.

Ice D: Brian Tonelli vs John Hammond. Win for Hammond. The Hammond squad continue to be a solid team. They win alot of games and I would be surprised not to see them them hovering around the top of the leader board. The Friendly Giant and his rink had to accept second place but good things are ahead for them once they hit their rhythm. They win the "Lookin' For Some Rubber Soul" Award.

So that was how it played out on this past Thursday. It's only 4 weeks in and lots of games to play. Lots of veteran teams making their mark, but there are many newer teams that are also making their move and coming into their own. Because of this, this season is shaping up to be awesome.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Apologies

In an earlier post (which I have since deleted), I made comment about the ice. In retrospect, this post may have undermined and offended some volunteers that have been working on the ice since the beginning of the season (although this was certainly not my intention). The two people that I am referring to are Ron Forrest and Michel Rivard, although there may be others and if so, you are included in this.

These people are volunteers at the BRCC and as we all know, volunteers are paramount to the success of the club. Indeed, their time and efforts should be applauded as their time is just as important as anyone else's that have been helping out at the club.

Further, the unity of all the members and in particular the volunteers is the very thing that makes the volunteer initiative successful so we should be all working together to achieve our goals. AND, the purpose of this blog is to be fun for ALL readers and should not be intended as a forum for the inner politics of the club. In this way, I am remiss and I do owe these guys an apology.

The fact of the matter is that our present ice-makers are intent on making good (fast) curling ice and we should, perhaps work as a collective and it is my feeling that we will achieve this goal. In the end, we all want to curl on good ice as do the ice guys since they are curlers themselves.

So, sorry guys.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic

Tuesday Ladies

I know what you're thinking. Who is that woman playing Titanic with Craig Roberts? Well, that's not Craig but whoever it is, I hope he's packin' a first aid kit because that girl's nose is going to require some attention. Craig is a former board member and a player in the Thursday Mens. He is a relatively new skip and is going through the standard growing pains that most new skips endure. But that's the game, take a few losses, learn how to lose, and then before too long, the games become closer and ultimately, a few wins get chalked up. It is a process.

The Tuesday Ladies also have newer skips that are also going through the "process". And they are also doing just fine. They were at it last Tuesday and some teams broke through.

Ice A: Annie Austin vs Anita Moran. WIN for Moran. My beloved Rez Girls played a good game but could not overtake the Moran crew. This Moran crew are veterans and this is a tough crew. I expect this is one of the teams to beat this year. They win the "Target On Our Backs" Award.

Ice C: Makayla Alloway vs Liz Rouselle. NO INTEL. I'm not sure what happened here. The Alloway squad were dressed in costumes for Halloween and they certainly win the "Best Dressed Curlers" Award for the week.

Ice D: Myra Kiernan vs Marg Tivy. WIN for Kiernan. The Iron Bridge belles are always a tough squad to get by but then again, Myra Kiernan has game. She's got loads of experience and this, for sure, is going to be a team to watch. They win the "Dark horse" Award.

Ice B (Late): Hayley Horton vs Beth Laderoute. WIN for Laderoute. With Shirley-Ann Fullerton at the helm, the  Laderoute squad posted a "W". It might be hard for Beth to get back behind the wheel after she gets back, it was looking like Shirley-Ann was lovin' the last shot/skipping thing. She wins the "A Star Is Born" Award.

Ice C: Paula Sommers vs Joanna Hammond. WIN for Hammond. Well let the bells ring out and let the birdies fly!...the Hammond crew has broken through and have posted the "W". Last week they tied their game and this week they secured the win. Here's another dark horse team that could get on a roll. They win the "We Have Arrived" Award.

And that's how it played out for this past Tuesday. The Ladies league is very strong. That is a big credit to the ladies that play in this league as well as the ladies who run it. Those ladies are Paula Sommers, Jaimee Ellmore, Denise Lebreche and Jennifer Stanton Smith. Thank you ladies, good job and you did have some big shoes to fill.

Rock On!

The Curling Chronic