Funspiel aids Sick Children's Foundation

The Caribou Curling Club in Stephenville was the place to be for an enjoyable time on Jan. 24 and 25.

Forty teams participated in a funspiel for the Bay St. George Sick Children's Foundation. A total of 154 curlers - beginners plus experienced players - competed against each other on an ice surface that was quite slippery at times.

In addition to meeting new people, learning a little about how to curl and having loads of fun, the participants showed great support for a wonderful cause.

Dennis Byrne, event co-ordinator, had great praise for all the volunteers and thanked members of the Caribou Curling Club and the Royal Canadian Legion for working together to make the event happen.

The business community was also acknowledged for its donations of prizes, which enabled each and every curler on a team to receive a prize. "This was the most successful Bonspiel due to the largest number of teams participating and the increased number of sponsors," said Mr. Byrne.

Bill Dunne, foundation president, said it was a great honour to attend the event and noted he was impressed with the large number of participants lending support for the foundation.

"The Bay St. George Sick Children's Foundation has been around for 14 years. It does tremendous work for the sick children and their families," said Mr. Dunne.

"Costs for accommodations and transportation for sick children and their families who have to travel outside the Bay St. George Area - i.e. to St. John's or wherever for medical attention - are financed by the foundation."

The three top teams at the funspiel were: Dennis Byrne's team, sponsored by Group Six Ltd.; Rosa Dollard's team, sponsored by the Rotary Club; and Ian Stokes' team, sponsored by Western College.

Upcoming events at the Caribou Curling Club include the Labatt Pankard Curling, starring Brad Gushue and his Team on Feb. 3 to 8; Co-op Curling Bonspiel in March; and Stick Curling in February. New curlers are welcome to participate and can contact the Caribou Curling Club at 643-4871 for further information.