Curling (Scottish)

Historians do not agree whether Curling began in Scotland or in continental Europe, nor do historians agree when the sport was invented, though Time magazine records it as originating in 1500. Evidence dating from the 15th century in the form of paintings and old Curling stones support the earlier existence of this remarkable game or sport.

This ice sport is played with two teams in which members slide “stones” (weighing under 44 pounds) at targets on the ice. Curling is similar to other games such as Quoits, Lawn Bowling, and Shuffleboard. It is now usually played on artificial ice instead of frozen lakes. Besides the Olympics, other tournaments are held for juniors (under 21), seniors (50 and up), and women, who have played since the 1890s. In 2006 the Winter Paralympics introduced Curling with specialized wheelchairs with which the players enjoyed Curling.

According to the Royal Caledonian Curling Club, founded in 1838 in Edinburgh, which is the national governing body of this sport, Curling's first written record is from February 1541. John McQuinn, a notary, wrote the account of the match between himself and a monk at Paisley Abbey, across the ice.

Curling is often considered Scotland's game, as can be witnessed by the intensity with which Curling is played, and its popularity since at least the 1500s, as well as its immortalization in poet Robert Burns's Tarn Samsons Elegy in 1786. Curling spread worldwide, first being picked up by Canada, and then by the rest of the world. Curling has been part of the Winter Olympics since 1998.

Bonspiels, known as Grand Matches, were two- to three-day events initially held outside until the first indoor rink was constructed in Glasgow in 1907. The first Grand Match was held January 15, 1847, and the last was held February 7, 1979, on the Lake of Menti-eth. The Bonspiel was played between North and South Scotland. These tournaments were excellent chances to socialize with other Curlers during a weekend celebration of food, drink, and game.

Today, Curling championships continue and clubs are still strong in membership across the world. Clubs offer a chance to socialize with different social classes and friends with similar interests. This Scottish winter sport has found popularity among young and old, men and women, the able and disabled alike.