NZ Curling

Curling is an extremely complex sport based around a very simple idea. Slide a stone down a sheet of ice and have it stop as near the centre of a set of  rings (called house), the problem being that your opposition will do everything tactically to stop you from achieving this goal. So the game contains elements of great skill, strategy, finesse, exertion and endeavour and we promise you that the perception of a slow-paced game is just that, a perception.

The game itself is more than 500 years old and its true origin is hidden in the mist of time, but it was in Scotland the game evolved during the centuries and also where the mother club of curling, The Royal Caledonian Curling Club was formed in 1838. The game has of course evolved through the years and the latest change on how the game is played was introduced in 1990 when the free guard zone rule was introduced

Fairness is an important part of the game and you shall not be surprised if your opponent will point out to you that they have broken the rules so just to make sure that no advantage is given.

The Spirit of Curling

Curling is a game of skill and of traditions A shot well executed is a delight to see and so, too, it is a fine thing to observe the time-honoured traditions of curling being applied in the true spirit of the game. Curlers play to win but never to humble their opponents. A true curler would prefer to lose rather than win unfairly. A good curler never attempts to distract an opponent or otherwise prevent him from playing his best. No curler ever deliberately breaks a rule of the game or any of its traditions. But, if he should do so inadvertently and be aware of it, he is the first to divulge the breach. While the main object of the game of curling is to determine the relative skill of the players, the spirit of the game demands good sportsmanship, kindly feeling and honourable conduct. This spirit should influence both the interpretation and application of the rules of the game and also the conduct of all participants on and off the Ice.

Check out this site for for some really cool animations demonstrating shots and strategies.