THE ROARIN’ GAME

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26473, 29 May 1947, Page 2

THE ROARIN’ GAME

PREPARATIONS IN TRAIN Everywhere in Central Otago where the ancient game of curling is played followers of the “roarin’ game” are getting ready for what promises to be an excellent season. Equipment is being prepared and weed cleared from small lagoons and dams used by the clubs. The frosts have been exceptionally severe for so early in the winter when no snow coats the hills, and the indications are for a hard winter, with plenty of opportunity for curling. Several curlers who have been play* ing for upwards of 50 years will be out on the ice again this season, and they have many interesting reminiscences of the early days. They recall that the game was commenced in Otago at Woodhaugh, which would indicate that Dunedin experienced harder frosts in those days than to-day. The diggers took the game with them to Central Otago, and m the winter, when their claims were frozen over, they played the ancient Scottish game on the ice-covered mining dams. It was nothing for them to walk many miles through the snow to play neighbouring clubs, with only lanterns to light them on their way. Often they would play in the dark of early morning or night with a lantern on the ice to aim at, ~ , , . Curling could be said to be one of the earliest sports in Central Otago, and it is pleasing to see that it still has a large following to-day. The annual bonspiel and various tournaments will be held this winter, and some exciting play of a high standard is expected.