Sadee Toews throws her rock at the Jam Pail Bonspiel in this January 2017 file photo. This year celebrates 60 years of jam-pail curling, with two jam-packed nights set to begin Wednesday.--NEWS FILE PHOTO
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A well-known curling-style event is celebrating its 60th anniversary this week as more than 600 students, along with members of the community, are getting set to take part in the free event that runs Wednesday and Thursday evening at the Kinplex.
The Jam Pail Bonspiel showcases the basic concepts of curling to students by allowing them to play with frozen ice jugs and compete against each other for fun.
Over the two-night Bonspiel the Kinplex ice will be turned into 13 curling sheets, and Grade 3-6 students will form teams and typically dress up for the event.
Following student play, the event is open for members of the public who would like to participate for free.
“It’s all about having fun, staying active and just being involved in the community,” said Rebecca Hirsch, organizer. “We’re just super excited for 60 years.”
Registration has closed for teams. Typically each night the Bonspiel attracts more than 300 students along with their families. Organizers say it’s a great night to spend with the family, and everyone is welcome to watch.
“It’s one of our favourite community events. Even if you’re not playing, I would still encourage people to come out and cheer, it’s a lot of fun,” adds Hirsch.
Students in Grades 3 and 4 are set to hit the ice Wednesday evening, and Grade 5 and 6 students will be on the ice Thursday. The open/all ages category runs after the students have finished.
