Chances to take to the ice

Have you been inspired by watching Perthshire curlers in action at the Winter Olympics?

Now is your chance to slide onto the ice and ignite a passion for the sport which has always been adored in the region.

A variety of‘Try Curling’sessions, suitable for those aged eight and above, have been lined up at the Fair City’s Dewars Centre across the next few weeks.

Costing £5.25 and lasting one hour, the sessions are designed to be fun, relaxed and will include an introduction to delivery, sweeping and full length curling.

Local curling development officer, Ann-Maree Davidson, said: “Watching the Olympics has a buzz for everyone, especially for the young ones.

“It inspires them to become better curlers, gives them a goal in life and shows it’s an achievable dream.

“If they know that the athletes play locally and can see them play at their local ice rink, it makes them think about what they want to achieve.

“Everybody at some point has started with either a Try Curling session, a beginner’s course or has been given coaching by other well-known curlers.

“Curling is for any and all abilities – and is inclusive.

“It’s a sport that all players are involved, and each player has a vital role to play.”

Organisers are encouraging locals to get together with some friends, come as a family or come on their own and meet new people.

No previous experience is necessary and there are opportunities to continue if you enjoy the taster.

Ann-Maree added:“In Perth we have lots of opportunities to join a junior club for anyone seven years to 21 years.

“Virtual/gateway club is for complete beginners and they have a coach available for the session.

“You can only be a member of this club for up to two years, and then there are the mainstream clubs.

“All clubs are friendly, and some clubs play either daytime curling, or evening/weekend curling.

“We have men-only clubs, women-only clubs and mixed clubs, depending on what the individual wants.”

Upcoming Try Curling sessions are as follows: February 24 from 11am-12pm, February 26 from 11.15am-12.15pm, March 9 from 3-4pm, March 12 from 11.15am12.15pm, March 14 from 6-7pm, March 25 from 6-7pm, March 26 from 11.15am-12.15pm.

Anyone interested in booking a space at one of the sessions is asked to contact Ann-Maree in advance via AnnMareeDavidson@liveactive. co.uk or 01738 454714.