Uncool climate cancels Curling on the Canal

Old Man Winter must not be a Scot! The recent rise in temperatures has dashed any hopes the Village of Palmyra and Friends of the Rochester Curling Club had for hosting their annual Curling on the Canal event at the Port of Palmyra Marina on the historic Erie Canal this year. The ancient Scots’ game of curling had been planned for Saturday, February 20, 2016, but no ice means no curling! Curling on the Canal can only take place if the weather permits, which, in this case, means having weather cold enough to maintain a sturdy, ice covered marina! Sorry, no thaw date. Response to this unique event has been tremendous in recent years, with nearly 500 curious newcomers braving the elements to curl on the Erie Canal. Palmyra Town Clerk and curler Irene Unterborn has been overwhelmed by the response, “It’s been amazing to see so many people come out and curl right here in the heart of Palmyra. On one hand, I hesitate praying for cold and ice, but on the other, I’d love to see outdoor curling come back in 2017!” About CurlingCurling is enjoyed around the world, wherever winter sports are played. Scotland is recognized as the spiritual home of curling, having originated there as early the 16th century. In fact, a curling stone was found near the city of Stirling engraved with the year 1511. Like many of the Highland Games, curling is a test of skill and stamina, performed with natural materials at hand. The game we know today developed chiefly in North America, especially in Canada where curling is a national obsession. Curling in Canada is as popular a participation sport as bowlingis in the United States. You can learn more about this event and other local curling opportunities, including adult leagues and junior programming by visiting the Rochester Curling Club website: http://www.rochestercurling.com.