For some, curling means dedication, focus and coordination. For us: drinking. After all, in what other Olympic sport is it custom to buy the losing team a round of post-game drinks? The biathlon? We think not. So, this winter, get out there and do a little sweeping. Here, the best places to curl in Montreal.
Point-Claire Curling Club
For beginners, Point-Claire offers Curling 101 – six two-hour Saturday afternoon sessions where non-members can learn the basics before committing ($80 for six sessions). Membership, however, has perks, including summer access to the Pointe Claire Yacht Club’s bar and patio. 250 Lanthier Ave., Pointe-Claire, 514-695-4324.
The Royal Montreal Curling Club
Founded in 1807, the RMCC is the oldest active club in North America. But it’s not unwelcoming to beginners: Start with the open Chicken League, where all entrants are randomly divided into mixed skill level teams. 1850 de Maisonneuve Blvd. W., 514-935-3411.
The St-Lambert Curling Club
Round up eight friends, and St-Lambert will rent you a sheet for just $15 per head, plus $25 for an instructor. They also offer pre-season clinics to improve new and old members alike. 660 Oak St., St-Lambert, 450-672-6990.
Montreal West Curling Club
Montreal West read your mind: In addition to instructional memberships, which grants you Monday access with lessons ($275), the club offers $70 memberships for “social men” (read: “Whiskey on the rocks, my good sir”). 17 Ainslie Rd., Montreal West, 514-481-4936.
Image courtesy of bensonkua.
