Edzell Curling Club

Secretary's Report On The Season So Far

2012-01-09T04:33:00.000-08:00

EDZELL CC V GRAMPIAN POLICE

The curling season so far……..as at 9th January 2012.

It is amazing that we are half way through our season and by all accounts an enjoyable season is being had by one and all…..only exception might be Shaun Kelly and his rink in the Inglis cup where could do better might be the order of the day. That said there are still plenty of games left to make a major recovery. To keep everyone informed of the league positions these are as follows:

INGLIS CUP:

Murray Young played 4 games 6 points and 19 ends
Steve Warden/Stephen Ferguson played 3 games 6 points and 13 ends
David Warden played 4 games 2 points and 12 ends
Shaun Kelly played 3 games 0 points and 4 ends

THE CLUB TROPHY:

The main league is well underway and this is proving to be very competitive. Gordon and his team seemed to be romping away with the title again but a defeat by Mike and his team last week has opened the door for others particularly as they have games in hand. This is Lynda’s first year as a skip in the main league and she is not being overawed by the occasion.

The current position is as follows:

Gordon Craik played 6 games 9 points 29 ends
Bob Myles played 5 games 6 points 19 ends
Ron Caithness played 4 games 5 points 18 ends
Lynda Kemp played 7 games 4 points 20 ends
Mike Ferguson played 4 games 2 points 15 ends

Our friendlies have been going reasonably well with wins over both Aberlemno , Fettercairn and Grampian Police.

The Aberlemno match was a very tight affair with a win and a loss but we scraped through by 1 shot !! The Fettercairn game was a bit more comfortable albeit that Mike and his team having scored a big 6 at the third end failed to score again against Colin Crosby but won by the narrowest of margins. Ron’s team took the heat off with a comfortable 11 - 2 win over Yochie and his rink(someone please tell me how to spell that !!)

Ron and his rink of Bob Miller, David Warden and guest player Roy Kerr(late sub for Mike) travelled to Elgin with Steve Warden (playing for the opposition) and we had an excellent day out against Grampian Police. Steve knows all the back roads well and we arrived within 2 hours not breaking any speed limits in his safari landrover!! An excellent game was enjoyed on fairly stiff ice (compared to Forfar) and the police can count themselves unlucky not to have secured the Steve Warden trophy.

Ron and his rink came from behind at the last end to perhaps steal the trophy from the long arm of the law !! (sorry Steve !)

Once again Dalhousie ladies have pulled off back to back victories against and our lady skips of Jo Fletcher and Lynda Kemp who narrowly failed to do the business but as they say it’s the taking part that counts not the winning……that’s not what Dalhousie Ladies are saying!!

Points Competition:

8 curlers turned out for the points and it was good to see some of our new curlers doing well. Congratulations to Caroline Myles for beating father Bob before handicap allowance and with the added 25 points she romped away with the Craik trophy.

Ron was in very good form in the main event and amassed 48 points to easily win the Wilson Trophy. That missed strike at the first discipline cost him the magical 50 point club!! Steve Warden was runner up with 37 points closely followed by president Bob Miller.

Club Pairs:

We had an excellent turnout for the pairs and while odd numbers required some creative pairings, a most successful evening was enjoyed. A winning pair could not be settled on the evening and it was agreed that the 2 tied teams would play a 5 end final later in the season. Ron and Sandra will go head to head with Steve and Ron M at ice to be arranged ….albeit that spare ice is now at a premium.

Other news:

Our journey to Greenacres for the Scottish Province Finals proved not to be successful on this occasion but there is always next year.

Ron and Mike along with Jim Menzies and Ian McGurk lost out in the final of the play off’s to proceed to the finals of the Scottish Seniors finals…well always next year or maybe not !!

The committee will be meeting shortly to discuss the possibility of a Curlers Court at the end of the season……look out for more details.

Finally we must make better use of our curler’s blog to keep our club members up to date with our club activity on a regular basis. Any member is welcome to submit articles or match reports to Mike or Gordon for inclusion…………..please help us to spread the word.

FINALLY FINALLY…… AND MOST IMPORTANTLY THE CHARITY SHOP FORTNIGHT WILL BE UPON US AT THE START OF MARCH AND MEMBERS SHOULD BE INGATHERING GOODS AND DIGGING DEEP IN THEIR GARAGES FOR UNWANTED BRIC A BRAC. THIS IS OUR MAJOR FUND RAISER AND IT IS IMPORTANT AT ALL HANDS ARE ON DECK TO MAKE IT A SUCCESS. MORE INFORMATION WILL BE RELEASED ON THIS IN EARLY COURSE.

Ron Caithness ……Secretary

Edzell CC v Fettercairn CC

2011-11-29T02:43:00.001-08:00

The annual inter-club game between Edzell & Fettercairn was held on Sunday 27th November. As usual a keenly contested game with Ron & Mike skipping the Edzell teams. Both Edzell rinks managed to come out on top with the final score Edzell 18 - Fettercairn 8 and Ron picking up the trophy as the highest up skip .

I think the other inter club games so far have resulted in a win over Aberlemno with Gordon & Bob Myles skipping the rinks and a defeat to Dalhousie Ladies. We will keep the skips names for that game off this post to save any embarrassment.

The picture shows the rinks after the Edzell/Fettercairn game.

With the blog now back up and running if anyone has any news or stories please send them on to mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk. Results of games would be particularly welcome to keep all members informed.

AGM: 26th April 2011

2011-04-27T14:36:00.000-07:00

The Club League Winners

The New Boss - What Have I Done ?

Inglis Cup Winners

The Ferguson Quaich Winners

Shaun Wins The Points Handicap Trophy - The Craik Cup

Edzell CC v Grampian Police Trophy

The Audience Waits In Anticipation

Our Secretary Working Hard

A healthy turnout of members attended this years AGM at The Glenesk Hotel, Edzell including several of our new members.

Chairman Bob welcomed all members present and reported on another successful year for the club with many highlights the best of which being the tremendous return for everyone's efforts at the Charity Shop. In particular thanks must go to Ron who spent many a happy hour serving in the shop and organising stock, etc.

Bob handed the President's chain over to Bob Miller and we wish Bob all success in his time in office. Russell has agreed to be vice-President with Ron continuing as Secretary with assistance from Gordon, Linda has agreed to stay on as Treasurer. Shuan Kelly was voted on to the committee. Well done to all.

After the AGM Ron & Bob presented all the season winners with their trophies after which we enjoyed an excellent meal prepared and served by Gordon & his staff.

An excellent night. Many thanks to all those who made the effort to support the club and attend.

The committee are meeting next week to organise a summer social event so more news soon.

Edzell Charity Shop

2011-03-28T01:07:00.000-07:00

The shop is going very well due mainly to a real sterling effort from Ron and several other club members. Stocks are running very low again and Ron is appealling for more items from members to ensure a big push over the final days of the shop. Please hand any items you can spare into the shop ASAP. Thank you.

URGENT REQUEST FOR MEMBERS SUPPORT

2011-03-17T15:07:00.000-07:00

We have had a great start to the charity activity and after 2 days trading we have grossed nearly £500. Our expenses of £200 have now been covered and everything is now clear profit.

BUT we have a real problem.........we are fast running out of stock and have almost 2 weeks of trading to go. Contributions to the shop have largely come from some 4 or 5 members and we need the support from ALL our members in contributing stock so get looking and with the Charity shop open from 10am til 4pm daily you can drop articles at the shop at the top of the high street in Edzell.( Clothes, Bric a brac and childrens toys are all good sellers so get searching and let me have it by this weekend).

Additionally we are running a raffle for a hamper and this should bring us in a further £100. We need more items to swell the contents of the hamper and would appreciate your contribution. We have promised that the hamper will have a value of some £40/50 and we dont want to spend any of our profits in fulfilling our obligation.

Please pass on this message to any members who don't visit the blog.

Ron Caithness
Secretary

Super League Success For Edzell Curlers

2011-03-08T01:54:00.000-08:00

Edzell Curling Club members emerged as the winners of the FCC Super Leagues Division 1 & 2.

Mike Ferguson's rink of Colin Inglis (Skip), Greg Drummond, Ron Caithness, Mike Ferguson, Murray Young & Andrew Ferguson won the Division one title only losing one game along the way.

In Division Two Gordon Craik's rink of Gordon Craik (Skip), Brian Binnie, Stewart Stark & Kerr Drummond won Division Two with a clean sheet to gain promotion to Division One next season.

Both leagues were keenly contested with the promotion and relegation issues not decided until the last stones of the last games were thrown.

Members Update

2011-02-21T03:44:00.000-08:00

We are fast approaching the end of a successful season but detail some info for your records:

New occasional Member: Jo Fletcher tel: 07762991576 (main club : Fotheringham)

Existing Member: Jim Gillick has decided not to curl anymore and has resigned from the club

Existing Member: Sandra Ross....wrong mobile number on syllabus....new no. 07877919583

Existing Member: Shaun Kelly...new mobile no. 07753678863

The RCCC Area 9 Top Ten Competition is taking place at Forfar Curling Centre on Saturday 27th March, 2011 and Edzell will be entering a team in this most enjoyable and social occassion. We ideally need nine players to make up the team so if you can commit please let Ron know as soon as possible.

Edzell CC have passed on their congratulations to local curler Greg Drummond, Fothringham CC, on winning the RCCC Mens Scottish Championships. Playing in Team Brewster Greg helped steer the rink to tremendous victory against another local Forfar team skipped by Sandy Reid from Evenie Water CC.

Team Craik Wins Club League

2011-02-11T04:29:00.000-08:00

Congratulations go to Gordon Craik and his club league rink who are this seasons Club League Champions. After a close and exciting game played last night Gordon emerged victorious with the 8-6 win he needed to secure the title.

A most enjoyable game was had by all 8 players with Mike's rink flying off to 4-0 start only to be pegged back by two consecutive 3's. Shots were exchanged with Gordon going down the last end 7-6 up. After a good end of curling Mike's rink was sitting two shots which would have given his rink the win and the two ends required to take the title but Gordon wasn't having that and played an excellent tap back through the port to win the game. Great to see the league go right down to the last stone.

A busy weekend ahead with Edzell in the semi final of the Callander Trophy, Bob takes an Edzell rink up to Aberdeen to compete in the Area 9 Crichton Tankard and we also have two rinks out in an inter-club against Catterthun. Enjoy.......

Members Update: Feb 2011

2011-02-02T01:50:00.001-08:00

CLUB LEAGUE

We are now coming to the final games of our main club league and once again we are going to have an exciting finish. Colin's rink still has to play Bob's rink to decide the wooden spoon while Gordon's Rink plays Mike's rink on 10th February to decide the destination of the league title. Gordon has a 2 point and 2 end advantage so it really will come down to the wire. Our new curlers settled well to the sport and it was pleasing to see some of them participating in the Sunday morning coaching. Like all sport the more you practice the better you will become.

INGLIS CUP

Lynda Kemp's rink are heading the table but she is not yet home and dry. She still has the title in her own hands and would be untouchable if she wins her final game on 7th February. David Warden's rink is the nearest challenger and with games in hand this could yet be crucial. 1 game still requires to be rearranged for the weather cancellation of 1st December and additional ice will be allocated and the game must be played otherwise we will incur an ice fee of £72.

FERGUSON QUAICH

We have now drawn the teams for this March competition and details are given below. This competition has only 3 games for each rink but the format is different and concentrates on your 'Drawing' ability. This competition has proved to be very popular over the past few seasons and is a nice way to complete our fast approaching end to the season.

Rink A : Robert Miller: Shaun Kelly: Jenni Warden: Doug Masson
Rink B : Aliostair Inglis: Steve Warden: Sandra Ferguson: Kelly Greig
Rink C : Ron Caithness: Steven Ferguson: Caroline Myles: Hilary Mackie
Rink D : Bobby Craik: Lynda Kemp: Ron Morrison: Garry/Sandra Ross

OTHER IMPORTANT NEWS:

FORTHCOMING CHARITY SHOP PARTICIPATION

As previously indicated we take over the Edzell Charity Shop on 15th March for 2 weeks and your support is required to join the rota of help and very importantly lokking out all your unwanted items. From past experience Bric a Brac and children's toys are the big sellers with good clothes being readily sold. I have already indicated that Colin, Gordon and Ron are already collecting and storing items and it is important that we start our stint with a bang. I know that many of our members are very busy people with hectic schedules but a little of your time at the weekend would be appreciated. We will draw up a schedule of helpers and would appreciate you advising when the best time is for giving a little help. REMEMBER this is a lucrative way to make some funds for the club and importantly keep our subs at a reasonable level and help subsidise other activities of the club.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

This will be held on Tuesday 26th April and you are cordially invited to attend. The format of the evening is a brief agm followed by a prize giving and a supper. This has proven to be a very popular way to bring our season to a close and a full turn out of our members is appreciated. As part of the agm we will discuss possible social events for the summer months,potential away day curling events and possible visits abroad.

BLOG SITE/FACE BOOK PAGE

We are looking to make greater use of our Blog site and the possibility of setting up our own Face Book page. We are looking for regular contributions from our members and this topic can be discussed greater at our agm.

Edzell CC V Brechin Castle CC: 1st February, 2011

2011-02-01T13:41:00.000-08:00

A good night for Edzell Curling with three rinks recording handsome victories and one putting up a valiant fight. Highest up rink was skipped by Gordon Craik with Andrew Ferguson, Shaun Smith and James Craik playing a great game.

Gordon received the Kettle trophy and Steve Barron won the trophy for the highest up rink on the losing side. Well done to all Edzell curlers. To save Brechin Castle's blushes we will not record the total score here. Come to the AGM to find out......

2010-12-07T01:32:00.001-08:00

Apologies that there hasn't been any posting so far this year, unfortunately I have been rather busy with other tasks.

Ron has requested the following posting: -

CHARITY SHOP: START COLLECTING NOW

Our club has managed to secure the charity shop in Edzell for the last 2 weeks in March 2011 and it is hoped that we can have an excellent response and build up some more funds in our coffers. As you are aware, we did not have any fund raising activities last year and the funds in the bank were naturally depleted.

It is important that we start to collect all our bric a brac, childrens toys, books, and clothes for the big event and if you would like to pass these on at an early date, the main point of cotact will be myself, Gordon Craik or Colin Inglis.

Please do not hesitate to contact me for any further details

FANCY A CURLING SOCIAL NIGHT OUT

It has been suggested that we hold a curling evening followed by a supper and this would likely be a Friday or Saturday evening. It is important we get the new curlers feeling part of the club and a social event can help to this end.

To allow your committee to guage the support for such an event could you please let me know if you would like to participate.

Please make the effort to let Ron know your thoughts in order that we can start planning events.

I will try to get some results and more news up on the blog shortly.

Change In Syllabus: Edzell v Dun

2010-10-18T07:45:00.000-07:00

The Edzell v Dun game has been changed to: -

Wednesday 12th January, 2001 at 8:25pm.

It clashed with the Miller Bonnet game after John Miller changing the dates for it at late notice. The date in the syllabus is correct for the Miller Bonnet.

Please amend your syllabus re the Dun game, thank you.

Edzell Come & Try Thursday 14th October, 2010

2010-10-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

A new season is now off and running hopefully you have all recieved your syllabus's by now.

The first date for your diary is this coming Thursday 14th December at 6:10pm for the club's Come & Try session. We need to get numbers to fill two sheets to ensure the club doesn't lose any valuable funds.

This session is open to novice and experienced curlers and is a great opportunity to lossen up the legs and arms before being thrown into the competitive games. With experienced curlers on hand to offer coaching tips it really is a must for all members.

It is also an ideal opportunity for all members to get together and sort out games, etc particularly with the club attracting a number of new members this season so please make the effort to come along. As Ron says small eats will be available on the night.

We look forward to seeing you on the night. Any questions or for further information please call Ron or any other member. Or if you prefer simply send an e-mail mike@forfarindoorsports.co.uk

Whilst on the subject of e-mails we are still trying to pull together every members e-mail address so please send it on to Ron or myself as soon as possible.

AGM & Dinner

2010-05-12T04:17:00.001-07:00

The Prizes Were Ready

and the Officials were ready, so on with the show !

The Club held it's AGM & Dinner last night (Tuesday 11th May, 2010) at the Glenesk Hotel. A dissapointing number of members turned up but those that did had a very enjoyable evening and an excellent dinner. If you didn't manage this year please make the effort next year as this really could be a very good night indeed.

Bob, Ron & Linda reported on a successful season with the majority of games being played and every competition going right down to the wire. New members have hopefully been found via the highly successful guest night and the future looks the bit brighter as long as we encourage the new members forward.

The finances had taken a bit of a battering but we were still in a healthy position. Time to hold a fund raiser and do the Charity shop again. Subs were held at £30 & £15 for adults and juniors respectively.

Mike F stood down from the committe having served his time with the vacancy being filled by Sandra Ferguson with Steve Warden also being appointed.

There was talk of the next foreign trip to Hungary or New York but not this season. We need to concentrate on getting a few inter-club trophies back.

The Trophies were presented by Chairman Bob to the season's successful rinks:

Mike's Rink of Steve, Russell & Ron Morrison winning the Club League

Gordon getting a trophy for something or other.....

Robert's rink won the Ferguson Quaich....

Sandra won the pairs along with Colin......

Russell won the Handicap points, Andrew won the points with a tremendous total of 47 points.

Gordon with the trophy for an inter-club game

and not to be out done Mike with another trophy for an inter-club game..

and finally just to show how rivoting the speaches were, Steve turned to page 3 for some insperation!

Well done to Ron for making all the arrangements and to Gordon & his staff for an excellent meal. As previously mentioned please make the effort next year to attend the AGM and, support the club and give your input.

The committee will be bakc in touch shortly with ideas for a summer fund raiser. Barbecue at Edzell Base still sounds favourite.

Closing Weekend

2010-03-30T01:20:00.000-07:00

The Winning Top Ten Teams

Another very busy weekend at the ice rink with Edzell involved to the full.

On Friday night in the Ferguson Quaich Mike's rink were met by a determined rink skipped by Alistair Inglis with Bob Myles & Sandra Ferguson. With the score swinging back and forward in favour of both teams Mike's rink of Gordon Craik & Steve Warden emerged the winners by 3 shots. Despite a player short in both rinks this was a most enjoyable friendly yet competitive game.

On Saturday night the club held a guest a night with around 30 adults and children taking to the ice for some basic coaching followed by a meal. Voted a great success everyone appeared to enjoy the evening and with 10 new members signing up membership application forms things look good for next season. We now need grasp this opportunity to work with these potential new members, mentor them and make them feel part of the club and become regular curlers both on and off the ice. Many thanks to all members who brought along guests and supported the evening - well done.

Finally on Sunday it was time for the RCCC Area 9 Top Ten Club Challenge with Edzell CC entering a team comprising of Russell Brown, Sandra Ferguson, Gordon Craik, James Craik, Lynda Kemp, Bob Myles, Andrew Ferguson, Murray Young, Steve Warden, Mike Ferguson & Ron Caithness.

After 3 rounds of the competition the club did excellently well and were leading the score board going into the hot shots round. Unfortunately the wheels came off a bit in that round with Edzell slipping to 4th place overall. Fothringham CC came through strongly to win the competition with Dundee CC second and Letham Grange third.

A great fun yet competitive day and an excellent way to finish off the season. Many thanks to all members who supported this event.

We will be back in touch shortly with details of the AGM & Prize Giving night to which all members are invited.

RCCC Rink Championships

2010-03-15T02:25:00.001-07:00

The Edzell rink of Colin (Skip), Gordon, Mike & Ron C reached the semi finals of the RCCC Rink Championships in Kilmarnock over the weekend.

After very successful round robin games Edzell met Stirling in the Quarters and romped through that one 9-1.

The semi final was a very tight affair against Perth with the game going down the last end peeled. Perth had one just biting the button with Edzell sitting slightly behind that. With guards up Edzell couldn't get to the shot despite a great last stone effort that whistled by the shot.

Perth went on to beat Galleon in the final.

Latest News

2010-03-03T01:11:00.000-08:00

In last nights Ferburn game the Edzell rink of Ron(Skip), Mike, Andrew & Sandra had a handsome victory over Fordoun 11-1 after six ends. With three wins to date the next game is against Letham Grange to see who goes on to the final.

Not sure if I have mentioned it before but Edzell are also doing well in the Crighton Tankard meeting AWW in the final of the North section with the winners going on to meet Suttieside in the overall final in Aberdeen.

Steve Warden has asked me to inform members that the Scottish Police Curling Championships are being held next week at Aberdeen Ice Rink on Tuesday 9/Wednesday 10/Thursday 11 March at Curl Aberdeen. Feel free to pop along and see Coppers' curling.

Finally please get back to either myself or Ron about the guest night and the Top Ten we need to get numbers tied down for these events if they are going to happen.

Members Update

2010-02-26T03:27:00.000-08:00

In Ron's absence I announce a couple of events to get feed back on please.

Guest Night: Staurday 27th March:

We have pencilled in a couple of sheets on Saturday 27th March at 5.30 pm for a guest night with curling followed by a meal. (2 sheets also available at 12:45 if that would suit better).

Other clubs use these nights to get new members and I thought it would be good to hold one before the end of the season to try and rope some new members in for next season. With only two rinks (I might manage to get some more) places will be limited but if members could bring a guest along and even if we only secure one or two new members for next season it will be worth it. Please come back to me ASAP with number, names, etc...

Top Ten Club Challenge: Sunday 28th March.

The annual Top Ten Club Challenge is being held at Forfar this year on Sunday 28th March. This is a great day and an excellent way to close off the season with fun yet competitive curling and a good bit of socialising. 12 clubs, including Edzell, have entered the competition this year so it is going to be buzzing. We need 10 players (inlcuding a coach if possible) who can hopefully manage for the whole day. We can bring in players from others clubs but it would be great if we could get 10 Edzell curlers out on the ice on the last day of the season. With prize money up for grabs it could end up costing you and the club nothing.

Please come back to me if you want to be included in this great day.

Replies to: mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk ASAP please.

Weekend Round-Up

2010-02-15T03:36:00.000-08:00

With Valentine's Day and a number of members on holiday it was a pretty tough weekend getting members on to the ice but nevertheless we managed to meet our commitments.

On Saturday a rink comprising of Bob Myles (Skip), Mike Ferguson, Robert Miller & Sandra Ferguson had a very enjoyable day at the Brechin Castle CC 150th Bonspiel as the pictures testify.

Congratulations must go to Brechin Castle for hosting such an enjoyable day. They did everyone proud.

On Sunday two rinks were out against Catterthun With Gordon's rink of son Jamie, Ron Morrison & Murray Young doing well to win by the odd shot. Unfortunately Mike's rink of David Myles, Kay Hutcheon & Russell Brown couldn't get out of the blocks and were on the wrong end of a 9-3 drubbing. Well done to Catterthun for winning the trophy 13-8.

Ferguson Quaich & Others

2010-02-09T01:04:00.000-08:00

The Ferguson Quaich has kicked off with a couple of lively games.

On Sunday night Alistair Inglis faced up to Robert Miller with Alastair edging out victorious after what I am told was an enjoyable and fun game throughout. Well done to Bob Myles for bringing his daughter and her husband along to make up the numbers and make sure there were 8 on the ice.

Last night Mike's rink were faced with a tough challenge from Ron's rink and again a good game was had with Ron winning 31-30 with the turning point coming in the seventh end with nearly all the stones in the house and some very good curling before Ron elected for the double take-out which worked perfectly. Mike replied with a double take out on the last but not enough to get that valuable extra point. Only one point in it so keeps everything nice and tight going into the rest of the games.

On Monday afternoon Stephen, Mike, Ron & Gordon met Aberlemno in the first round of the Dewar Trophy. A hard fought game going down an extra end before Edzell emerged victorious, but only just.

We are going to try and arrange a guest night before the end of the season to try and get some new members in to the club so please start thinking up some names. I will get back with a date later this week.

Best wishes to Ron and safe journey as he and Kate head off to the Winter Olympics, fingers crossed they witness's curling medal success.

Edzell CC V Brechin Castle CC

2010-02-05T07:34:00.000-08:00

Always a keenly fought inter club game this years proved no different.

From memory Edzell managed to win on three sheets only losing out marginally on the other. Bob Myles rink were the highest up rink taking the trophy with Graeme Mather Snr being the highest up Brechin Castle skip. Again from memory I think the total overall score was Edzell 26, Brechin Castle 17.

It was good to see a couple of new faces turning out for Edzell with Lindsay Wood and Murray Young both committed to the cause. Hopefully we can call on them both again.

Thanks go to all members who turned up to make sure we could field 4 rinks - well done it just goes to show we can do it when needs must.

We are still lokoing for feedback on a guest night, end of season meal/prize giving and entries for the caption competition all posted earlier (see below).

Club Games - Read All About It.......

2010-01-26T01:08:00.000-08:00

As mentioned in the last blog the main two club leagues i.e. the club league and the inglis cup reached their conclusions this week with both going right down to the last games.

On Saturday Colin's rink beat Mike's rink handsomly to take the club league down to the last game: Mike v Gordon.

On Sunday David Warden's rink beat Shuan Kelly's rink (skipped by Bob Miller) to win the Inglis cup so congratulations go to David and his rink.

Last night Mike's rink played Gordon's rink in a head to head winner take all game. Mike's rink comprising of Ron Morrison, Russell Brown & Steve Warden played very well and set up most of the ends leaving Gordon with some very difficult shots to stay in the game. But that they did and with the one's being exchanged up until the 6th end the score stood at 3-2. In the sixth end Mike's team nanaged to take a 2 followed by another two in the seventh end resulting in a shake of hands and the Club League Trophy going to Mike's rink, but only just with both Bob & Gordon's rinks in contention before the game.

Also on Sunday Edzell CC were competing in the Rink Championship final against Adrian White's Fotheringham team. Always a difficult game. After a few close exchanges early on Edzell started to break away with Adrian falling short with draws on two occassions giving up 2 shots both times. Colin's rink of Ron Caithness, Mike & Gordon started to take control and hands were shaken after the seventh end. The team now head to Kilmarnock in March to represent the ice rink and Edzell CC in the RCCC Rink Championship finals.

Other results to note are that Edzell are still fighting away in the Crighton Tankard up at Aberdeen Ice Rink. Gordon's Rink of Stephen/Maggie, Mike & Colin have two games behind them so far and have another coming up very soon.

We are toying with the idea of having a guest night to bring along potential new members and get them signed up before the end of the season in order that we can include them next season. If every member could bring along one or two guests imagine how that could strengthen the club. Other clubs enjoy great success from these guests nights with a meal after. Guests are more likely to come along when they know there are with other beginners.

What do you think? Let us know. If we are going to get it organised we need to get on with it.

Ron is also keen to hear your views on holding an end of season dinner and prize giving on the same basis as last years successful event. Please make your views known it is your club, support it.

Anyone with any other news please send it on to me at mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk thank you.

Results & Wee Bit of Fun

2010-01-13T09:06:00.000-08:00

Colin beat Mike's rink in the club league on Monday 6 - 4 meaning that it is going right down to the wire with several rinks now in contention. Remaining games are Mike v Gordon & Mike v Colin. Did I hear someone say bring it on.......

Time for some fun on the blog. Captions please for the picture above. Please e-mail your witty caption to mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk . The best one's might just be read out at the AGM and who knows a small prize might be found.

So come on plenty of material here with Gordon strategically placed, brothers in the same position and who knows what that hand is up to. Click on the picture if you want to see it larger.

P.S. Great publicity for Edzell CC. in the Courier, The Brechin Advertiser, The Skip Cottage Blog and even the Scotsman were trying to get hold of Bobby to tell a tale or two about the 1979 game. Surely that must give us a chance to find a few new members.

Cheers for now......

Glenesk v Edzell

2010-01-11T01:21:00.000-08:00

The Grand Match might have been called off but not to be out done a few hardy soles made there way up to Tarfside to take up the challenge set down by Glenesk CC on Saturday 10th January, 2010.

A more detailed report will follow but meanwhile here are a few pictures kindly sent to me by Jeni Warden.

Club Points & Pairs

2009-12-03T05:57:00.001-08:00

A rally call goes out to all members to support the up and coming club points & club pairs to be on played on Tuesday 8th December at 8pm & Saturday 12th December at 12:45 respectively.

It is important we get as many members on the ice as possible to support these competitions and save the club funds.

For those curlers who haven't tried points before I would encourage you to do so. You can only learn while trying the tougher shots so have a go while you are amongst friends. With trophies at stake it is a great chance to get your name on one. Come on you know you want to......

Please call Ron to conifrm whether you can attend or send him an e-mail to roncaithness@btinternet.com

2009-12-01T00:31:00.001-08:00

Fettercairn Arch

Sorry I have been rather negligent when it has come to the blog of late. It has been rather hectic over the past few weeks.

Anyway I don't have a great deal to report as no-one has sent me any game reports so I can only tell you about those that I have been involved in.

At the weekend we played the re-arranged Angus Challenge against Letham Grange skipped by Jim Milne and ably assisted by his 3rd John Miller. The Edzell team of Stephen Ferguson (good to see him back on the ice), Gordon Craik, Ron Caithness & Mike Ferguson (Skip) played a fine game and after losing a one on the first end never really looked back with a 5 in the fifth end killing off the game. The final score was 11 - 3 with a shake of the hands after six ends. Next round is this coming Saturday at 3pm.

On Sunday two rinks faced up to Fettercairn Curling Club in the annual inter club game. With Ron's team comprising of Euan (on loan from Forfar Young Curlers), David Myles & Mike Ferguson they gained control fairly early on and stormed away to a whopping 14 -3 win.

On the other sheet Bobby having just returned from Florida and really enjoying the Scottish weather (not) also had a fine game. His team made up of Sue McGregor (good to see you back on the ice as well), Mark (another on loan players from FYC), and Robert Miller got off to a shaky start but soon gained control and romped to victory with some excellent final stones from Bobby (he told me to say that).

So, the Brown/Craik cup remains with Edzell CC for another season. Fettercairn want to see a few members turn up to their end of season dinner to collect the trophy.

In the closing speaches Ron made reference to the excellent ice "through the house" it was certainly the fastest I have played on for some time with excellent swings. Well Done to Steve & his team.

I also played in an Inglis cup game between Shuan Kelly & David Warden. It was a tight game with Shuan ending up victorious on the last end. Unfortunately I can't recall much more than that.

That's all I have. If anyone has any other match reports or comment they want up on this blog please send them to me at mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk

Inglis Cup - Lynda v Shuan

2009-11-04T06:03:00.000-08:00

Lynda took to the ice in her new blue shoes and boy did they work magic. Her team raced off to a 3 shot lead after 2 ends and she was certainly looking a good bet for the next 'strictly' outing. However up stepped Shaun with his new found sliding delivery and pegged back the deficit at the 3rd end. Lynda regained the initiatve with a fine worked 3 at the very next end and with a steal at the next it looked like it was to be her night. Shauns rink of Mike,Sandra and Maggie clawed back a 2 to go into the last end without last stone .

In good old curling speak, Mike 'persuaded' Shaun to throw caution to the wind and 'guddle ' the end away. It worked in their favour and with Lynda just marginally short with her final stone, a further 2 was lost and an honourable draw was achieved........a very fair result.

Poor Maggie had to leave the ice late in the game with her body still suffering severe pain from a very recent mishap. She was pracising some form of tight- rope walking on the the cross beams of her house roof space and managed spectacularly to fall through the ceiling. With Colin no where to be seen, Maggie managed to use the fridge to eventually push herself clear of her stranded position and leave their house with new found air conditioning. You were very brave to turn out for the curling in your battered condition and we all wish you a speedy recovery that will get you back on your horses and the ice as soon as possible.

Club League Update

2009-10-26T09:20:00.001-07:00

Bob In His Working Clothes

I am again indebted to Ron for the following report on last nights game. By all accounts it was some game: -

The main club league is now well underway and it looks to be shaping up into a very open tournament. In the latest encounter last night (Sun) Robert would argue that he was Myles better but in actual fact it came down to a fantastic stone by the Dalbog skip to seal the victory (More later)

Colin took an early lead and looked to be charging ahead with a potential steal of 2 at the second until Bob played a fine draw through a narrow port (well 2 feet) to secure his 1 shot. Colin played a fine end to secure his 2 shot advantage but Robert and his team played some mouth watering shots at the 4th end to put Colin in all sorts of bother. Bob should have had a 6 but failed with an easy draw to the house and had to be content with a big 5.

Colin came bouncing back at the next end and the fine play of his team resulted in an immediate count of 3 to level the scores.

2 shots a piece were traded at the next 2 ends and this set up a tremendous last end decider with Bob holding last stone…….and what an end of curling it was !!!

David Myles played a short guard but Ron came round to lie just beyond the button. David followed with an excellent freeze and Ron also followed with a fine freeze. But with Colin lying shot, he elected to guard for victory and he and his team were making a fine job. Alastair Inglis made a fine tap back to remove the back stone but David’s draw was still the winning stone and there was every likelihood of this being the winner until Bob’s first stone. Mortal curlers would have played a raised take out on the short guard and the sweepers thought this to be the case but with Alastair shouting louder he dominated the (power) sweeping influence and raised the long guard to nudge out David Myles long standing winning stone and effectively secure victory. The only question that must be asked was whether this was the shot of the season or of Bob’s entire curling career or was it the biggest fluke that sent Bob home happy…… (an unusual occurrence in Forfar for Councillor Bob these days !!) I know what Colin thought but he was too much of a gentleman to think or say otherwise !!

Let’s have more games like this throughout the season.

Reported by an unbiased skip playing lead for Bob.

Update re Latvia

2009-10-20T03:17:00.000-07:00

I mentioned before that Bob Cowan of Reform CC was in Latvia last week. Hre are Bob's comments he kindly sent me by way of e-mail: -

Hello Mike,

I very much enjoyed my trip to Latvia with the Reform CC. I really did not know what to expect from the country, or the people. The latter were pleasant, and the curlers very enthusiastic and welcoming. Many speak excellent English. They played at a high standard.

The old city is very nice, and it was interesting to see the transitions elsewhere away from the legacy left by the Russians. And I just loved the trams and the trolley buses! There are lots of little restaurants, and we did not have a bad meal.

On our first day we had a great guide called Olga who took us on a walking tour through the old city, a bus trip to Jurmala on the Baltic, lunch in a modern shopping mall called Spice (that was very interesting, and unexpected), and then a boat trip on the river.

You will have seen pics of the little rink they have built. Not in the most attractive location, and probably not too easy to find. But Artis the young manager is very friendly and helpful. If you are looking to take anything, the walls of his office and the club room are completely bare as yet. I did think that I might try to source an old curling print, or something similar.

Happy to answer any specific questions. As I've already said, I went not really knowing what to expect, and was pleasantly surprised. Even our Ryanair flight from Stanstead wasn't such a bad experience after all, although the 15kg limit is quite restrictive.

Kind regards

Bob

A further helpful insight I trust you agree. We should probably consider taking something Scottish over as a gift for the ice rink. It would be good to be giving them one of their first gifts for the ice rink.

When I questionned Bob about the financial side of things he said: -

Good question. I tried a couple of places in Edinburgh with no success, although they did say they could order. But in the end I changed some £s to Lats at Stanstead airport on our way out, so I would have some in my pocket on arrival. (I changed some back into £s at the same exchange booth on our return stopover, and there was no service charge as I had kept my receipt.)

I took some English notes and Euros and these were easily changed at little exchanges in the old city tourist areas. I noted that some of the members used the hole in the walls too.

Cost of living in Riga is comparable with here I think. My major expense was really only in the evening meals - we did eat (and drink) well! Beware the Black Balsam - which goes down really well with blackcurrant! The Volvo Centre had inexpensive catering for lunches. There's little onsite at the two-sheeter yet though, except a coffee machine.

With the luggage weight limit I did not even consider bringing home any souvenirs as I would normally have done. But I did buy the tee shirt!

All helpful stuff. Looks like we might have to take food to the ice rink on the Friday.

Monday 19th October, 2009

2009-10-20T01:47:00.000-07:00

The club had a few rinks out tonight with the first competing in the North & South Esk Ferburn League with Edzell up against Catterthun. The Edzell team comprised of Ron (Skip), Mike, Kate & Bob as they faced up to George Dalgarno (Skip), Tom Miller, David Miller & Gavin Grant.

This was a good all round team performance from Edzell building a 4 -0 scoreline after three ends before Catterthun replied taking one in the fourth end. With the score 5 -1 to Edzell after five ends Catterthun threatened a fightback by taking a 2 in end six to take the score to 5 - 3.

Determined not to let them back in Edzell closed out the game with a decisive 5 shots in end seven and finished matters off with nice single in the last end taking the final score to 11 -4. A great start to the competition setting up us nicely for the next round.

The second game of the night was an Inglis cup game with Shaun Kelly's rink up against Russell Brown's rink. With Shaun only managing to muster three players the dreaded six shot rule was applied.

Determined not to let that ruin the game Shaun's rink of Steve Warden & Mike Ferguson set out to crawl back the deficit and after six ends they were up 6 - 0 making the overall score a tidy 6 - -6.

With the game starting afresh in the seventh end there were plenty stones in the house and Shaun played some excellent guards to steal another two stones taking the score to 8 - 6 going down the last.

Again with plenty stones on the house both teams played a very good end with Bob & Sandra dropping stones in front of those already placed by Mike & Steve. Ron played an excellent strike getting rid of three stones leaving only one yellow in the house surrounded by five reds. Russell was left with a tough shot to get rid of the yellow to sit three and take the game. The stone bent a bit to much leaving reds sitting one shot making the final score 8 -7 with the penalty shots.

Again a good fun game with shots a plenty. Keep the game reports coming in please.

Inglis Cup Update

2009-10-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

Inglis Cup - Inglis Hall same difference !!

Here is a report from Ron on a recent Inglis Cup Game: -

The quality of shot making was awe inspiring with Linda Kemp pulling off raised double take outs to keep the game against David Warden on an knife edge right to the very last stone. David is convinced the Lynda is his 'bogey man' and it was shaping up that way last Friday evening.

Bobby had his first outing of the season and lived up to his King of the Draw reputation from his very first stone.

Jim Gillick is now a regular in the Inglis Cup and he is fast understanding the rules and subtlety of the game and his control of the draw is fast improving.

Lynda and her team always seemed to have the edge and went into the last end 2 shots up. David controlled the head and there was a danger of gaining a 3 for the match but following a fine strike and a good draw by Lynda, David was left with a 4 feet draw to secure a 2 and peel the game. This was played to perfection and an honourable draw resulted.

The format of the competition with positional change after 2 ends is popular and allows our leads and seconds to experience opportunities in the head and let them know how difficult and pressurised the skips job is !!!

Well Done Ron, let's see some more reports from other skips or rink members . E-mail them to mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk thank you.

More on Latvia

2009-10-19T01:10:00.000-07:00

Check out the following link to Bob Cowan's site. As previously mention Bob & his curling club Reform CC are in Latvia and Bob grabed the chance to visit the rink we are going to being playing at. He has snapped a few pictures and even makes reference to our visit.

If you want to see & read more click here: -

http://skipcottagecurling.blogspot.com/

More Club League News

2009-10-18T14:44:00.000-07:00

Facing up against each other on a cold Sunday night through in the skating rink on Sheet E were Bob's team comprising of Bob, Alistair, Shuan & Sandra and Mike's team made up of Mike, Steve, Russell & Bob Miller.

It was a good game mainly comprising of draws and tap-up's with very few strikes. Mike's team raced off to a 4-0 nil lead after securing a couple of 2's. Bob secured a good one at the next end before the opposition closed out the game with 1 & 2 in the next two ends. Bob played well controlled draws to take a 2 in end six before Mike's rink secured a further shot on the final end finishing with a 8 - 3 scoreline.

The ice through the house was keen with a good swing on both hands. Hopefully it will stay that way for the season.

Club League Update

2009-10-16T01:29:00.000-07:00

Last night witnessed the second club game of the season with Bob's rink taking on Gordon's rink with Gordon having only recently returned from America during which time he enjoyed a brief stay in hospital after attempting a double backward flip off the high board only to forget about the board and meet it with his leg on the way back down. Thankfully Gordon has recovered and might even struggle on to manage the Latvia trip.

Anyway back to the game. Bob managed to race of to a good lead and was 7 - 0 up before the frost had lifted off the ice. Gordon fought back with a nice 4 before Bob ran out eventual winners with a final score off 10 - 6. Gordon valiantly said he couldn't blame the leg for the defeat. The teams were Bob, Ron, Andy & Sandra against Gordon, Linda, David Wrden & Colin.

For those of us going to Latvia if you were wondering what to wear take a look at the picture above from Reform Curling Club who are currently over in Latvia doing just what we intend to do. It certainly looks a bit chilly. I have been in touch with Bob Cowan and he is to forewarn the Latvians what to expect from Edzell Curling Club and he is also going to come back to me with some helpful tips hopefully.

More about Latvia soon I hope. I am away to order my Latvian Lats but also intend to take US Dollars & some Euro's just in case. I am led to believe all major cards work over there and can be used at bank machines if required. I have found quite a few useful sites just by searching on Latvia and suggest others do that as well in preperation for the trip. Here are a few links: -

http://www.latviatourism.lv/info.php

http://eng.meeting.lv/latvia/latvia.php

http://www.li.lv/

http://www.latviatravel.com/

That should do for now.

Summer is officially over, time to curl.....

2009-10-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

Well summer is well and truly over and we look forward to longer and colder nights, but wait no time to get depressed - "Lets play curling" (apologies to all darts followers)

The first game of the season was played last night in the club league with Mike Ferguson's rink up against Colin Inglis rink. Alongside Mike were Ron Morrison, Russell Brown & Ron Caithness. Supporting Colin were David Myles, Maggie Inglis and Shaun Kelly. It was particularly pleasing to see David Myles back on the ice after his fight with a cow earlier in the year. You can't hold a good man down, David - well done.

It was good game on keen ice played in a great spirit. Mike's team managed a 3 on the first end and threatened to break away were it not for some great saving stones from Colin. Both teams played well with very few heavy stones and a nice drawing game allowing only seven enjoyable ends.

With a number of games coming up in short shift please check you syllabus for all of your games and be prepared.

Ron will be contacting everyone involved in the Latvia trip with final details. Not long now.

Finally if anyone would like an electronic copy of the syllabus please send an e-mail to mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk and I will send one on. Also please if I don't have your e-mail please send me a message in order that we can keep in touch.

Summer Barbeque & Latvia Trip

2009-06-24T01:31:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone is enjoying the "summer" curling free.

Ron has asked me to post the following member announcement. Please consdier and get back to Ron as soon as possible in order that numbers can be catered for.

SUMMER BARBEQUE

As discussed at the AGM we have made arrangements to hold a summer get together and a BBQ has been arranged for Sunday 9th August 2009 at the former US Navy base (courtesy of the Carnegie family) This is not a fund raising event but we naturally want to cover our costs and we have set the ticket price at £7.50 each to cover all the food costs….we promise that you will not go hungry with our barbeque selection followed by locally grown strawberries and cream.

We have decided that beverages should be your own responsibility. We trust that you will be able to attend and you are more than welcome to bring along a few friends and hopefully potential members to the club.

I would appreciate you reverting to me no later than 10th July confirming your attendance and number of guests to allow us to organise the catering.

VISIT TO LATVIA

For those members who attended the AGM you will be aware that we discussed the possibility of a short break abroad for some winter curling similar to our centenary visit to the Czech Republic and we have been in communication with the President of the Rega CC in Latvia. They are very keen to host our visit and we have provisionally booked to attend over the weekend 29th October through to 2nd November 2009.

Flying directly from Prestwick will ensure us excellent fare prices but we will naturally have to book fairly soon.

We have estimated that the costs inclusive of hotel accommodation will approximate £250 per person and we are looking for your confirmation of interest as a matter of urgency. Hopefully we can manage to achieve 4 rinks and we have been promised a bonspiel with the local curlers to round off our trip.

Please let me know over the next 10 days if you want to come as the earlier we book flights, the cheaper they will be.

Ron
23rd June 2009

AGM: Wednesday 22nd April 2009

2009-04-24T06:14:00.001-07:00

President Bob would like to thank all who turned up for the AGM & meal. Those who did manage along enjoyed a most pleasant evening as club business was discussed throughout the evening over an excellent meal prepared by the Glenesk Hotel.

The main appointments were Bob Myles elected as President, Robert Miller as Vice-President, Ron Caithness as Secretary and Lynda Kemp as Treasurer.

The trophies were presented with Colin Inglis rink picking up the Club League, Russel Brown's rink collecting the Inglis Cup and Ron Caithness's rink winning the Ferguson Ouaich. The points were won by Mike Ferguson with Andrew Ferguson collecting the Handicap Points Trophy. The pairs were won by Colin Inglis & Mike Hay.

Other notable success's were Colin Inglis's rink winning the N&SE Province Dewar Trophy, Gordon Craik and his rink winning the Forfar Curling Centre Callander Trophy. In addition and Edzell rink skipped by Gordon were beaten in the final of the National Province Championships .

The club only lost out in one inter-club game and Ron had collected in all the inter-club trophies making for an excellent display on the night.

Congratulations go to all club members for making the season such an exciting one with ever league & competition going right down to the wire and on a number of occasions down to the last stone.

The club will be holding a summer barbecue in July or August more details to follow and an trip abroad is also being looked at seriously so a lot to look forward to.

Please keep any postings coming to mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk to go up on the blog and look out for new members during the summer.

That's it folks

2009-03-19T01:53:00.000-07:00

Well that's it - all club games have been played well done to everyone for making this such an exciting season.

Congratulations go to Ron and his rink in the Ferguson Quaich having secured sufficient shots up to take first place from Mike's rink. Playing against Robert Miller in the final game all Ron's vast experience came to fruition to overcome and secure the points needed to take the league by 4 shots.

Yet another league going down to the last game which can't be bad.

But wait there is more......

Gordon along with Lynda, Ron & David Myles played an outstanding game on Saturday to lift the Callander Cup after only 6 ends against Harold Haggart from Balruddrey. Gordon says his rink played excellently well, with David setting the tone with lead stones followed up by Ron and then Lynda at third. With plenty of cover the rink were able to build heads and see off the game in close order. Well done to all - your club is proud off you.

As mentioned in the last posting Mike was down at Murrayfield ice rink playing in the Maxwell finals for Forfar Ice Rink. Forfar were drawn against Stranraer with Hammy McMillan, Norman Brown & Philip Wilson the three Stranraer skips to contend against. Mike playing third to Adrian White peeled with Hammy, Bill Thomson's rink beat Philip Wilson but George Christie's rink lost out heavily to Norman Brown meaning Stranraer scrapped through on shots and then went on to win the trophy by beating Galleon. A good day amongst great company.

The Charity shop is now closed and thanks to all who helped out in any way. A great vote of thanks goes to Ron Caithness in particular who spent nearly all week in the shop. Ron your efforts are greatly appreciated.

We have made another handsome profit but we will leave the formal annoucement until the AGM so please make sure you come along and support the club. Please call Ron 01356 647212 to confirm if you are attending the AGM and the meal - we really want to ensure as many members as possible turn up.

Crying over spilt milk

2009-03-14T04:44:00.000-07:00

Alas our bubble finally burst and we lost our 100% record for the season to Glenesk Curling Club. (revenge is so sweet for that much publicised win over them on the outdoor ice earlier this season !!)

With Mike away on Maxwell Trophy duties with Forfar Ice Rink reaching the finals, Ron took over the team of Stephen Ferguson, Shaun Smith and Lynda Kemp and did we have a nightmare !!! Yes our curling was bad but praise where where praise is due and we were just outplayed on the evening being soundly thrashed 11 - 3.

Our other rink of Gordon Craik, Colin Myles, Ron Morrison and David Myles eventually overcame the monotony of slow play...by the opposition I hasten to add...... to record a fine win.

Alas they could only muster a + 6 advantage and the Myles Quaich was duly presented to Glenesk.

The Charity shop is going well and sales are exceeding expectations. Ron and Bobby are thinking about opening a string of shops in the UK, such is their expertise and repartee with the customers.....banter extraordinaire !!! Yes we charm the pants on our customers and off they go with a new wardrope !!!

We hand over to the Bowling Club on Monday afternoon and our Bank balance will be much healthier. Thanks to all the contributors and to the members who helped in the shop. Our president really took to the task and enjoyed the new experience....a change from the mundane activities of the Council!!!

The final Game in the Ferguson Quaich will be played on Saturday 14th March and like the other leagues will go down to the wire.

Ron needs a +10 advantage to overcome Mikes Team. Robert is not out of it and a + 20 in his favour would see his rink lift the trophy.

Gordon and his rink compete in the semi final of the Callendar Trophy and we wish them well in this competition.

Also best wishes to Eve Muirhead and her team as she heads into the World Junior Final later tonight.

Final's time

2009-03-09T02:05:00.000-07:00

Eve Muirhead (see below)

As we run up to the end of the season there are a couple of announcements:

I have results from two of the recent Ferguson Quaich games with Alistair Inglis triumphant over Robert Miller and Mike Ferguson managing a win at last by beating Alastair. Whilst the format of the competition still draws comment it would appear to be finding favour and the 4 points for the shot seems to have made the games that bit more exciting. One more game to go with Robert playing Ron on Saturday 14th at 12:45.

On Tuesday night Edzell have 2 rinks out against Glenesk with Ron & Gordon skipping on this occassion. No pressure guys but the club's 100% inter club game record is at stake !!

As we enter the last week of the Charity Shop if anyone has any items to hand in please get them in ASAP.

Glenesk Curling Club are holding a Dinner & Presentation of Prizes at the Panmure Arms, Edzell on Saturday 21st March 2009 at 7.30 pm and all Edzell CC Members are invited. Tickets will cost £17 per person and can be booked by contacting Joan Caithness 0n 01356 670390.

For those interested in events further afield Eve Muirhead and her Scottish Junior Championship squad are sitting joint top with Canada in the World Junior Championships in Vancouver. You can follow results here: http://www.wjcc2009.com/

On Tuesday the Forfar rink team of 3 rinks head down to Murrayfield to play in the finals of the Maxwell Trophy. Hamilton, Stranraer & Lockerbie have also qualified for the final games.

That's it for now I think apart from a reminder to all members to attend the AGM in April.

Congratulations

2009-03-06T01:35:00.000-08:00

Congratulations got to Colin and his rink as they won the club league following the game between Mike's rink and Gordon's Rink. A tight game early on with both teams taking shots off each other but a two on the seventh followed by another two in the eighth end killed the game with Gordon triumphant and Colin delighted. Well done to all the teams for making this year's club league such a close run competition. The final league positions are shown above.

On the sheet next to the club game Andrew, Ron, David Warden & Sandra were battling to reach the Ferburn final with Catterthun as the opposition. Unfortunately the game turned on a fluke shot instead of Edzell gaining a 3 to take a commanding lead a Catterthun draw wicked off a guard to take the shot after that Catterthun took control of the game to see it out. Edzell missed out on the final by one end.

On Wednesday night two rinks were out against Panmure with Gordon & Ron skipping the teams to victory (better mention Bobby played second & skipped with Ron playing last stones). The scores were 6 -4 and 11 - 7.

We are now well into the first week of the Charity Shop and whilst takings are slightly down on last year it still looks like we will raise much needed funds for the club. We could still do with more items for the shop and helpers to assist in the shop itself. If you haven't cleared out the loft or raided the kids toys cupboard please do so and hand in any items to the shop.

As we near the end of the season we look forward to the final round of games and of course the build up to the AGM.

Club Update & Committee Meeting Report

2009-03-02T12:44:00.000-08:00

Keeping the country theme going: Aberlemno Stones this time

Another busy week for the club. On Monday Ron, Mike, Gordon & Colin managed to overcome Evenie Water in a close game to win the Dewar Trophy and qualify for next years Province Championships and hopefully go one better than this year and win the final.

In the Ferguson Quaich Ron's rink beat Mike's rink and I think Alistair Inglis beat Ron's rink the night before with Bobby replacing Ron as Ron had a super league game at the same time.

On Saturday two rinks skipped by Bob & Ron won quite easily against Aberlemno to keep up the club's 100% record on inter club games. I believe there is a story or two to tell about these games and as soon as I have it I will post it up on the blog.

The Charity Shop opened on Sunday for a week and I would remind all members to support the shop with whatever help you can give whether with time, items for sale or items for the raffles. Gordon & Ron are the people to talk to if you can help in any way.

The committee met on Tuesday 17th November at the Glenesk Hotel, Edzell and the minutes of the meeting are shown below. Please make a note of the events and dates planned. The committee are keen to involve members in all club activities and we need your support to make our efforts worthwhile. We would also welcome your comments in relation to the proposed events. PLEASE NOTE: AGM IS TO BE HELD ON 22ND APRIL 2009 AT THE GLENESK HOTEL, EDZELL A FULL ATTENDANCE IS REQUESTED.

Tomorrow night sees the club league decider between Gordon & Mike and at the same time Andrew takes a rink in the last round robin game in the Ferburn against Catterthun. If he wins he is through to the final.

Sorry if I have missed any games but no-one has come forward with any reports or results.

Committee Meeting of Edzell Curling Club held at Glenesk Hotel
on Tuesday 17th February 2009.

Present: Bob Myles, Chairman, Ron Caithness, Gordon Craik, Colin Inglis, Mike Ferguson, Mike Hay and Lynda Kemp

Apologies: Sue McGregor

Minutes: The minutes of the meeting of 9th October 2008 were read and approved by Gordon Craik and seconded by Lynda Kemp.

Matters Arising: Ron Caithness confirmed that the club badges had been ordered and received at a cost of £289. Lynda confirmed that 70 badges had been sold to date and the stock remaining would be detailed in the annual balance sheet as an asset of the club.

Treasurers Report: Lynda advised that the balance of club funds stood at a healthy £1,967.

Club Website: Firstly Mike was thanked for his creation of the blog and the facility had been well received. Hits from other curlers in Scotland had also been healthy. (400 after our reporting of the outdoor curling up Glenesk). Mike has been the mainstay of the reports on games and our outdoor curling activities but he was seeking all members to create appropriate input via e. mail to Mike for inclusion in the blog.

Season’s activities

Positives:

The league programmes had been very successful
Inter club games had been enjoyable, competitive and highly successful
Club reached the finals of Scottish Province Championship…lost
Reached final of Dewar Trophy (defeated Evenie Water in Final)

Negatives:

Struggled on occasions to put out full rinks
Loss of members had been critical : need for new members
Rules re late arrival may require to be relaxed (special dispensation to be granted to member Russell Brown in view of his Aberdeen employment)
Mike apologised for his part in non shows !

Charity Shop: Gordon has plans well ahead and arranging for the Guides to ensure they empty the shop on the Saturday afternoon. We would meet at 10.30am on the Sunday to prepare shop for opening on Sunday afternoon ……1pm.

Gordon had left a rota with the shop to allow the regular helpers to select their times.
Club members would have to cover the vacant spots…..GC to be in touch with members.

All articles to be left at Glenesk Hotel or Ron Caithness in the run up to the shop …after 1st March…direct to the shop.

It was agreed that we arrange for a Hamper for raffle….once again looking to members to contribute to Hamper’s contents….the more the merrier !!

Costs : Rent £310 for month…our share £155. Electricity costs : £25/30

Summer Activities:

Following discussion it was agreed that we should look to arrange a BBQ/ Games afternoon/evening and ideal location would be the former U.S. base.
Gordon to speak to David Carnegie to see if venue could become available to us.

A Bothy Nichts autumn event was also discussed and Ron to look into. Ideal venue would be Inchbare hall and Jim Brown as our Master of Ceremonies.

Away Curling Trip:

Following discussion it was felt that we should look into the possibility of a repeat of our 150 birthday celebration and visit an Eastern Eurpean Country for a long weekend of Culture, Curling and Come what may !!
Important that venue is on direct flight route (ideally Globespan from a cost perspective)
Ron is to speak with the Director of Competitions for World Curling Federation as he is aware of all Ice rinks and his recommendations would be of considerable value.
Timing around end of October/early November considered appropriate.
Need to sell the weekend at the AGM

A O C B

Letter to be released to Dennis Caithness thanking him for the invite to their outdoor rink and ask that our thank’s be passed to Dick Hanson, Estate Owner.

A.G.M. Agreed the date of 22nd April 2009 and should take the form of AGM followed by Supper and Prize giving. Seek a celebrity guest eg David Murdoch, Ewan McDonald.

Weekly Update

2009-02-22T12:59:00.000-08:00

The Catterthun's (Get It !)

This afternoon (21/02/09) two Edzell rinks skipped by Ron & Bobby played against two rinks from Catterthun in the annual inter club match. Ron was up against Tom Miller with Bobby up against Keith Lawrie. Ron raced off the big lead and never looked back with Gordon at third playing some great shots more than assisted by Shaun Kelly & David Myles. I believe Ron played a raised double take out with his last stone to take a four. Whilst on the rink next door Bobby's team of Colin, Mike & Russell conspired to lose a three (being 3 up) on the TENTH end believe it or not to leave the game a draw. In any case Edzell have maintained the club's 100% record on club games this season.

On Saturday night the club had two rinks out in the N&SE Province Indoor Bonspiel. I high score was achieved by both rinks against Aberlemno CC and the club might just be in the mix to win the trophy.

Next up is the final of the Dewar Trophy followed closely by the Club league decider on March 3rd and the last game in the Ferburn which if we win will take us in to the final. Andrew Ferguson is skipping the Ferburn this year so go luck to him and his team.

The first Ferguson Quaich game was played this week with Ron beating Mike's rink.

Finally congratulations go to David Murdoch and Eve Muirhead on winning the Scottish Championships beating Tom Brewster & Hazel Wood's rinks respectively. Full reports can be found here: http://curlingtoday.blogspot.com/

Again I would appeal to members to send me game reports to my e-mail address to make sure I am not only reporting on games I am involved in. I am sure there are many other exciting games going on every week so please let me know.

Outdoor Curling @ Tarfside

2009-02-11T14:45:00.000-08:00

The Edzell Boys

Cleaning the snow off the ice

Our Glenesk friends (note the full moon)

Getting ready for the game

The entrance to the rink over a stream

Bobby surveys the scene

The challenge is on

It is a tight end

The curlers (Kate is taking the picture)

A Smooth Delivery

Keen, Keen Curlers

Setting the scene

Following a phone call from Dennis Caithness of Glenesk Curling Club Ron made a few frantic calls and a small number of Edzell Curlers headed up to Glenesk's new curling rink up at Tarfside arriving at around 7pm.

The scene was one of the most idyllic I have ever seen with snow covering everywhere but the curling ice itself. Mr Hanson has spent a great deal of money upgrading the existing rink to this modern floodlit version and credit must go to both to him and the Glenesk curlers for making such an excellent venue for outside curling.

Ron & Kate had prepared some snacks and with a few bottles to keep the cold away an absolutely tremendous night was had by all. I doubt if the pictures do the evening justice but I hope you can get some idea of what a fun and memorable night it was.

One interesting fact that came out over a dram was that it was the first time Bobby Craik had been back on outside ice since the Grand Match in 1979 when Edzell CC were victorious. The Grand Match was held on 7th February so it was almost 30 years to the day - quite a coincidence.

Thanks go to Dennis, Ron & Kate for pulling everything together in so little time. For those interested in the score the Edzell team (Colin, Gordon, Mike & Bobby) beat the Glen team (Ron, Angus Davidson sub'd by Blair Morrison, Kate Caithness, Dennis Caithness & Michael Littlejohn) by 5 shots to 4, but no-one was really counting.

Role on the next invite, or let's get the Edzell pond up and working.

On the club front Shuan has been in touch to confirm that Lynda beat him in the Inglis Cup with a convincing score but one that didn't reflect the game.

Weekly update...

2009-02-09T02:59:00.000-08:00

Grand Match, Lake of Montieth 1979

As Jack Frost starts to visit us more often rumours are rife on curling bulletin boards about the Grand Match having a chance this year. I personally doubt it but at least it has got people talking again about the Grand Match and of course Edzell Curling Club's finest hour. We will wait and see if the required 11 3/4 inches of ice materialises.

Another busy week has just flown by for the club with several fine wins along the way.

An excellent turnout of members enabled the club to record a healthy win over Brechin Castle and win back the trophy we gave up last year. Mike's rink was the highest up.

Then on Thursday night two rinks won handsomely against Fettercairn to retain the trophy with Colin & Gordon leading their teams to victory. I don't think we have lost an inter-club game this season but I stand to be corrected. Next up are Catterthun (Ron & Bobby) on 22nd February followed closely thereafter by Aberlemno (Bob & Ron) on 28th February.

Also on Thursday night Linda, Mike & Andrew represented the club in the Province points on tricky ice which unfortunately went rather flat towards the end of the competition. After a great start all three started to drop points but still finished high up the leader board. Brechin Castle won overall with Graeme Mather Jnr winning the individual award.

Only 6 disciplines were played something the Province should look at. The curlers on the night favoured the competition being staged on a Sunday afternoon with a meal after it, after all it is supposed to be a main event with all the clubs in the area putting out strong teams. We intend to put this idea forward to the Province to consider.

On Friday afternoon Colin, Gordon, Ron & Maggie convincingly defeated Dalhousie Ladies in the first round of the Dewar Trophy. Catterthun have withdrawn from today's planned game allowing Edzell to march on in to the semi-final.

I believe there was an Inglis Cup game played over the weekend between Linda & Shaun' s rink but I don't know the score yet. In any case it appears Russell's rink has won the Inglis cup so congratulation to Russell and his team.

We now move into the Ferguson Quaich with the playing format quite different. The more stones in the house the more points you get. Good luck to all the rinks.

Finally Ron has asked me to mention that Fettercairn Curling Club will be holding their annual Dinner Dance in the Panmure Arms Hotel on Saturday 14th March 2009 at 7pm. Tickets are available through Alison Pritchard or contact through Ron Caithness.

As always please send me any results or news to mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk

Happy curling.......

It's A Nail Biter

2009-02-03T13:39:00.001-08:00

The league is now drawing to a close and this year will see the winner decided on the final game.

Robert Myles and his team had high hopes of clinching the league in the rearranged game against Ron Caithness. Alas Ron's team with 'King of the Draw' Bobby Craik substituting for Andy Smith proved too strong and with all 4 curlers bringing their 'A' game to the ice, they ran out very comfortable winners. Robert Myles was seeking to win the club league for a 9th time and the record books would have been searched to check if history had been made.

Colin and his team now lead the league with 10 points but Mike has a final game against Gordon and with a healthy ends up position, all his team have to do is win........no panic then Mike !!

A busy week lies ahead with Representative games against Brechin Castle (4 rinks) and Fettercairn (2 rinks). Additionally the Province Points will be played on Thursday evening 8.05 pm and we wish Mike, Andrew and Linda well.They are representing the club following their excellent display at the Club points. Friday sees the start of our defence of the Dewar at 3.15pm and Colin will skip the team for this season.

Forthcoming events

Brechin Castle are holding a fund raising dinner on Saturday 21st February 2009 at 7pm as they continue their build up to their 150th birthday celebrations in 2010. Tickets are priced at £17.50 and is being held at Brechin Golf Club. Please advise Ron Caithness if you want to attend. ( please note that we have 2 teams playing in the Indoor Bonspeil at 5.15pm on that evening)

The Forfar Curling Club are holding a Dinner and Court on 14th March 2009 and 'made' curlers are cordially invited. Ticket price is £13.50 and the event is being held at Forfar Indoor Sports. Please advise Ron if you are interested in going.

Well Done Bob !

2009-01-27T01:40:00.000-08:00

I wonder if Bob played against this lady? Carmen Schafer an elite Swiss curler who modelled for the fund raising curling ladies calender

Congratulations go to Robert Miller on his return from Switzerland having successfully defended the trophy as part of the touring team. No doubt Robert will have a few stories to tell over a dram or two.

The Edzell rink of David Warden, Ron Caithness, Colin Inglis & Mike Ferguson (Skip) were narrowly defeated by Evenie Water in the Rink Championship final on Sunday afternoon.

With score at 2- 2 after 7 ends Edzell went down the last with the hammer and were looking good until a very unlucky shot whilst trying to clear the guards off left Evenie Water with one in the house which proved tough to get out.

Also last week Mike Ferguson along with Bill Thomson, Gordon Smith & Neill Smith from Forfar CC were delighted to win the Yara Farmers Curling Competition in Perth. Again a tight final with a steal in the extra end needed to secure the trophy.

Next week sees quite a few games including 4 rinks out against Brechin Castle on Wednesday 4th Feb in an inter- club game. With Brechin Castle winning the trophy last year we are keen to bring it back where it belongs.

Other games involving club members include the Province Points on Thursday 5th at 8:05 and The Dewar Trophy on Friday 6th at 3:15 pm

Inglis Cup Update

2009-01-18T13:33:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Ron for providing an up date on the Inglis Cup positions which is just as tight as the club league.

Shuan Kelly is leading the way on 5 points having played 5 games. Lynda Kemp & Russell Brown are equal second on 4 points with Lynda having played 3 games ad Russell 4. Holding up the league at the moment is David Warden with 3 points after 4 games.

A busy week ahead for many club members with the Yara @ Perth, Bank of Scotland Championship, Forfar Super League, Club Games and the Rink Championship final on Sunday against Evenie Water.

Some members might be interested to hear Jennifer Jones and her Canadian rink won the WCT-E Glynhill competition at Breahead this afternoon.

Then at Forfar Ice Rink Billy Nairn, Keith Prentice, Don Stark, George Christie, George Kirk & Barton Henderson have all qualified through to the Scottish Seniors Finals. By all accounts it was a good qualifier with the Bar takings well up.

The Up's & Down's of Curling

2009-01-13T01:25:00.000-08:00

Bad nights for Team Craik & Team Ferguson but excellent nights for Team Inglis with Colin's rink seeing off Gordon's & Mike's rinks with ease. Colin and his rink have hit a rich vain of form just at the right time to storm to the top of the Club League finishing on 10 points (I think).

With two games to go it is still all to play for. Gordon has to play Bob and then Mike before the title is decided.

I can only report on the Inglis v Ferguson game where there was some great curling from both teams with Colin making an absolute tremendous tap up to save four shots on the second end having taken a double take-out through a port to blank the first. David Warden was also on fire with two excellent draws around wide guards in the seventh end to kill off the game. With Ron Morrison very steady at lead and Shaun Smith doing his bit it was a complete team performance throughout the whole game. Praise should also go to David Myles, Nikki Milne & Lynda Kemp who fought hard to keep up with some of the excellent shot making coming from the opposition.

A great advert for Edzell curling.

More Club League Results

2009-01-07T06:45:00.000-08:00

Events continue to heat up in the run-up to the conclusion of the Club League & the Inglis Cup.

On Monday night in the Inglis Cup there was a peeled game bewtween David Warden & Shuan Kelly. A good game by all accounts with the game doing down to the very last stone.

Last night Mike's rink managed a win over Ron's rink with an 8-5 score but only by virtue of 4 penalties with one of Ron's team arriving late. Rather unfairly penatly shots has cost Ron dearly this year as he has kept the result's very close and winning many only to lose games through the added on shots.

Next up is Gordon v Colin on Sunday 11th Jan at 5:15 followed by Mike v Colin on Monday 12th Jan at 8:05 with both games having significant bearing on where the trophy will head.

Two final games follow with Bob v Gordon and then finally a re-arranged game between Gordon & Mike.

The next club game is on 4th February against Brechin Castle at 5:55pm. With four rinks out the skips will be looking for all available members to support the club. If you haven't been called and you are available to play please send e-mail to edzellcc@ferguson-oliver.co.uk

Club League Positions

2009-01-03T15:54:00.000-08:00

Here they are folks the current club league positions.

As you can see every rink is still in with a shout leading to a great run in to the end of the competition.

Rink Played Won Lost Drawn Points

Bob Myles 6 3 2 1 7
Mike Ferguson 5 3 2 0 6
Colin Inglis 6 3 3 0 6
Gordon Craik 5 2 2 1 5
Ron Caithness 6 2 4 0 4

Thanks to Ron for putting the table together. Sorry for the way it is appearing here on the site I can't get it to format correctly.

Club Game Results

2008-12-31T05:08:00.000-08:00

The topsy-turvy club league continues with Colin's rink managing an excellent win over Bob's rink running out 15-3 winners. Colin says his team is really coming together with Ron Morrison in particular setting up ever end. I am told Colin even managed a good game!

Joking apart the club league is building up to a very exciting finish with all teams in contention.

In the Inglis Cup Lynda Kemp's rink also managed a fine victory over David Warden's rink meaning that the Inglis Cup will also likely go down to the wire. All good stuff for the club.

This will be the last posting before the New Year so best wishes to all and here's looking forward to good curling in 2009.

An Uphill Task

2008-12-29T00:51:00.000-08:00

I trust everyone has had a very pleasant Christmas and are now preparing the bodies for the next few days ahead as we look forward to 2009.

The Club League continues to excite with everyone in with a shout. Colin's rink managed a win over Mike's rink last with a convincing 11-5 result.

It doesn't help when you lose a six at the first end as Mike tried to make a draw but fell short on keen ice. With such an uphill task the team rallied and started to claw their way back before losing a four to kill the game as a competition.

Colin meets Bob's rink tonight as things start to heat up.

The Cat Is Amongst The Pigeon's Now !

2008-12-24T01:13:00.001-08:00

After the last series of club league games the cat is very much amongst the pigeons now with rinks taking points off each other all over the place.

Gordon's rink managed a fine win over Ron's rink with a couple of 4's exchanging hands during the course of the game.

This was followed by Ron managing an 8-4 win over Colin's rink in what I am told was a very close and good game of curling.

Then last night Bob's rink ran out victorious against Mike's rink with an 8-5 result. Going down the last 4-5 but with last stone Shaun Kelly at third played an excellent tap back behind guards to turn the end around. Bob followed up with two well played stones and with Mike heavy with his last stone draw (surprise, surprise !) the game was well and truly won.

As we enter 2009 it looks like the club league will go right down to the wire with several rinks in contention - just what we all want.

In the Inglis Cup Shuan Kelly's rink has had fine back to back wins against Lynda & Russell's rinks. Again Merry Christmas & a Very Happy and Prosperous New Year. See you on the Ice in 2009.

2008-12-17T02:11:00.001-08:00

Chairman Bob and all the committee would like to wish all members past and present a very merry christmas and a happy new year.

While you are out and about socialising around the festive period keep in mind our desperate need for new members and try to source some likely targets and line them up for the new year. The club would be pleased to organise a come and try session if there were enough likely candidates lined up.

Please note that Shaun Kelly has new contact number: 07752678863

Weekend 13/14 December

2008-12-15T01:37:00.000-08:00

(Bob & Russell getting ready to do battle)

(Colin proudly shows off his trophy)

(The pressure is clear to see)

A busy weekend for the club with some members on the ice Friday, Saturday & Sunday.

Friday night saw an Inglis Cup game between Lynda Kemp's rink and Shaun Kelly's team with Shuan emerging victorious. This was a really good fun game just what the Inglis Cup is about and set up everyone for the weekend's curling ahead.

On Saturday the club held its annual Pairs competition. Eight members participated in what turned out to be a most enjoyable and competitive afternoon's curling. The teams matched as follows: Colin Inglis & Mike Hay, Mike Ferguson & Maggie Inglis, Ron Caithness & Sandra Ferguson and Bob Myles & Russell Brown.

With everyone scoring points against each other it went down to the last game before Colin & Mike H emerged as the winners with eight points followed very closely by Mike F & Maggie on 7 points. Ron & Sandra on 5 points as were Bob & Russell.

In the absence of the Pairs salver Colin was presented with an empty can of ginger beer as the picture proves.

A point of interest was that after a short break for a bowl of soup when we went back on the ice we played 2 stones each rather than the usual four each. The change made the remaining games very fast and furious with no room for errors leading to some very exciting and good curling from everyone. Chairman Bob would like to thank all those who attended for supporting the club at this busy time of year.

On Sunday it was an inter club game versus Dun with Colin & Mike F taking on teams skipped by Alastair Inglis and Hazel Wood for Dun. Colin's team of Ron, Shaun Smith & Shaun Kelly romped off to an excellent start taking two three's early in the game to take control. They never really looked back and won with a convincing 14-3 score despite Alastair & Garry Wood's best efforts to get back into the game.

Mike's team was made up of Steve Warden, Nikki Smith & Sandra Ferguson all of whom played excellently well throughout the game. With Hazel & Lorraine Wood playing some good tail end curling it was at the front end that the game was won with Sandra & Nikki dropping in stones at will giving Steve & Mike something to play with at every end. Mike's rink eventually coming out on top with a 9-3 win. Edzell retained the trophy.

Club Points

2008-12-10T02:23:00.000-08:00

10 members turned up for the club points last night at Forfar Ice Rink. The ice was keen and a good competitive competition was held.

Lynda Kemp stormed off to an early lead with some excellent shot making scoring points every time a stone was thrown. In fact everyone was playing well with some excellent scoring across the board.

As it came down to the last few disciplines the curling became more intense. At the end of the competition the top three going forward to represent Edzell at the Province points later in the season are Lynda, Andrew & Mike with Andrew winning the Craik cup for handicap points (40 + 10 handicap = Total 50) and Mike winning the scratch points trophy with a score of 47 points.

Many thanks to all members who came along and supported the competition.

It is the club pairs competition on Saturday and as usual numbers are needed. Please let Ron know if you are coming along for what is normally a fun yet competitive few hours of curling.

2008-12-09T02:23:00.000-08:00

Here is Ron's report on the club league to date

"As we reach the half way stage of the league, Mike Ferguson and his rink remain undefeated after 3 games. Bob Myles has accumulated 5 points from 4 games and is closely followed by Gordon Craik's rink with 3 points.

Bringing up the rear with 2 points are the rinks skipped by Colin Inglis and Ron Caithness.
A long way to go and history will show that being the front runner is a huge burden to carry and the bookies are unlikely to have closed their book on the likely winners of this year's main league. The games have been played in excellent spirit and there has been some close and exciting finishes.

Some of the games have been lost/won by dint of penalty shots for late/non arrival. Please make every effort to attend or arrange a suitable sub."

We will see if the pressure tells as we enter the second half of the season. Suggestions for the characters in the cartoon please.

2008-12-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

Just a quick reminder to members that Gordon is looking for good quality items for the Edzell charity shop. So, if you are having a clean out before Christmas please remember about the Charity Shop and get your items over to Gordon.

Last year the shop brought in a tremendous amount of cash for the club therefore if we can repeat last's year performance it could shore up the club's finances for quite a few years.

With credit crunch all around us Charity shops are appealling to a many more shoppers looking for bargains - so come on support the club and start clearing out those cupboards.

I hope to have the leagues posted on the blog soon ...... watch this space.

Edzell reach the RCCC Province Final

2008-11-18T07:34:00.000-08:00

The Edzell rink comprising of Gordon (Skip), Colin, Mike & Ron headed down to Greenacres at the weekend to represent North & South Esk Province in the RCCC National Province Finals.

The opening game was against England, no moral boosting required here. Edzell played a very strong game winning 11-1 and more importantly gaining 7 ends. The rest of Friday was given up to a bit of socialising. On Saturday Edzell were matched up against East Lothian and after losing 3 on the first end they had a job on their hands to fight back. Thankfully the rink rallied well and eventually came out victorous taking 5 ends along the way.

After watching a bit of the Rugby we went back on the ice to face Breadalbane. A tight game early on which eventually went Edzell's way after some good shot making. Edzell ran out good winners and with another 6 ends in the bag we then went on to record our draw shot challenge result.

With a long lie on Sunday morning at stake Ron bit the pot lid, as did Mike & Colin. With the pressure on Gordon he fell slightly short of the pot lid. Edzell duly scored the best draw shot score and earned their long lie and passage straight through to the semi's

On arriving at the ice rink on Sunday morning we noticed we were to play Loch Leven, previous winners of the competition many years over. With reversal of the previous day opening game Edzell scored 3 in the first end followed by several one's taking a convincing 5-1 lead. Gordon had a very difficult tap back for 3 to kill the game but the stone caught a draw and whiskered the gaurd. Loch Leven then came back into the game with a vengance take a 3 followed by ones meaning we went down the last peeled but with last stone advantage. Thankfully we managed to play out the end and score 4 shots to win the game and make the final.

Next up were the West Lothian team skipped by Mike Dick and very ably assisted by Colin Hamilton at third. Edzell never really got out of the blocks and were always struggling to get control of the game. A four for Murrayfield in the fifth end almost killed the game but we bounced back with a 3 at the next end only to lose a 2 resulting in a shake of hands after 7 ends.

Perhaps a game to many, if we had matched the standards set in the previous games who knows.

In any case a good effort to get to the final and keep Edzell's name up there and with wine coolers as prizes there shouldn't be any excuse for warm wine.

Club Badges

2008-11-13T00:57:00.000-08:00

Following requests from members a fresh stock of club pin badges has been placed and should be with us shortly. Ron has shopped around and found a good supplier, keenly priced and efficient - to date at least.

Any member who wishes a stock of badges should speak with Ron we will want to sell on as many as possible to get money back in. Final price will be confirmed after reciept of the badges and invoice however we would expect them to be in the region of £1 each.

The first inter club game is fast approach ing with three rinks required to play against Fettercairn for the Brown/Craik Trophy.

The three skips are Bobby, Colin & Ron and no doubt they will be on the phone looking for players so please check your diaries.

The game is on Sunday 30th November at 7.30 pm

2008-11-12T01:03:00.000-08:00

Committee meeting update:

Our club curling is now in full swing but we have sadly lost the services of our President Fergus who has very reluctantly resigned from the club. Fergus was finding it difficult to balance his curling activities with the demands of home life and the activities of his children. Fergus was a good supporter of the club and always willing to turn out to help the club particularly at our fund raising activities. We all hope that Fergus will want to return to play with us in the not too distant future but in the meantime, we all wish Fergus all the best for the future.

Vice president Bob Myles has agreed to assume presidency of the club with immediate effect and with Bob being both apast president and a current Convener of Angus Council, we know that the club is in good presidential hands. The committee decided not too appoint a new vice president meantime and the onus will be on our experienced members to help Bob particularly at friendly matches where the usual votes of thanks are an integral part of the evening.

Date for your Diary: Gordon has secured the Charity shop for the first 2 weeks of March 2009 and I would ask that you now start looking out your unwanted items....tell your friends to save up their items and let us try to match our excellent fund raising of last year.........£1,700.
Childrens toys are a favourite and both Gordon and I will start collecting in the new year.

League Matches: Thanks go to those who are starting to feed in some game reports, please keep it up. I will post league positions shortly.

The battle of the titans took place recently when Colin's rink played Ron's rink in what was being billed as the league decider with only one month of the season undertaken !!! Can I just say to the other skip's....prove me wrong !!!( Ron's words...not mine !!)

On extremely keen ice in the front hall, Ron's rink appeared to move quickly into control but a superb raised double take out at the very first end by Colin set the tone of the evening where some excellent curling was to be witnessed. After 5 ends, Colin led 4 shot to 2 but conceded a big 3 to allow Ron's rink to take a narrow lead. Colin took a big 2 and moved into the lead with 1 end remaining and what and end.

Ron clearly wanted his 2 to win the game but a fine freeeze by Ron Morrison looked to dictate the end for Colin. However,Colin's requested attempt of a peeled short stone went horribly wrong and played into Ron's hands. The excitement was not yet over as Ron's first stone picked and this allowed Colin to play a fine tap back through a narrow port to lie shot. Ron had to follow and with good sweeping control by Alistair Inglis in the head, Ron matched Colin's stone and scored a big 3 to win the game. Let's hope we can enjoy more games like this throughout the season.

On Monday night Mike's Rink played Gordon's rink in the club league. With Gordon missing Fergus he has quite a job chasing around for players for every game so if you get a call please try and help out. For this game Gordon brought in a new curler Jim (whose last name escapes me right now). It was only Jim's second game and played well for someone so new to the game.

In a tight game with Andrew & Gordon having the work cut out at certain ends the score finished a very crediable 6 - 3 for Mike's team. Again good fast ice albeit with a bit of a fall back as we have come to expect on Rink A.

National Province Championships: Greenacres:

This coming weekend see's the Edzell Rink of Gordon, Colin, Ron & Mike head down to compete in the National Province Championship at Greenacres Ice Rink. Always a very testing competition but one that Edzell representing North & South Esk province normally fair well in. Our first game is against a team from England followed by games against East Lothian, Breadalbane & Moray 2. If you want to follow the results click here: http://www.royalcaledoniancurlingclub.org/competitions/dyncat.cfm?catid=21312

2008-11-06T03:42:00.000-08:00

In the absence of any scord cards or game reports from members it falls on me to report on the Maxwell Trophy game at Murrayfield yesterday. I skipped one of the rinks with Bill Thomson & George Christie skipping the other two. we were up against three strong home teams with well known curlers such as Colin Hamilton, Trevor Dodds and Ian Baxter amongst the opposition.

On swinging ice where you could get hidden if your weight was just right we managed two wins and one loss. Both George & my rink managed to notch up fine wins and Bill only missing out over the last couple of ends after a very tight game against Colin H.

After the game we were treated to an excellent meal with fine home baking, a few drams and a few stories. Just what the Maxwell Trophy is all about.

Next up are Kelso away and Hamilton at home. With Hamilton having already beaten Murrayfield it looks like it is heading towards a head to head against Hamilton yet again.

Please try and send me results of games and comments to my e-mail address (mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk) in order that we can keep this blog up to date and interesting.

P.S. The picture is of a very scary looking Trevor Dodds.

RCCC Rink Championship 1st Round

2008-10-22T00:56:00.000-07:00

A good game was on the cards and so it turned out to be. The edzell rink of Andrew Ferguson, Gordon Craik, Colin Inglis & Mike Ferguson were drawn against Forfar 1 comprising of Martin Gledhill, Keith Gibb, Craig Johnston & Adrian White. After giving up 2 on the first end Edzell faced up an up hill task but dug in deep and took control of the game racing off to a 5 - 2 lead only to lose a silly three after a bad shot call from the skip.

The game was back on with Forfar's confidence restored. A couple of nice draws in the 6th end saw Edzell restore their lead and after losing one on the 7th Edzell headed down the last one up and with the hammer. A very tight end followed with both rinks having chances to seal of the end thankfully Mike didn't have to play his last stone and after a measure the shot was Edzell's making the final score 8 - 6 for Edzell.

We are in a ridiculously hard section with Forfar 2 & Evenie Water still in contention but if we can keep this standard up who knows.

Monday 20th October, 2008

2008-10-21T00:46:00.000-07:00

A busy night for the club with three teams out on the ice at Forfar Ice Rink.

In the first session Andrew Ferguson skipped a rink comprising of Colin, Mike & Kate Caithness in the Ferburn league against a very strong team from Dun CC with Gary Wood, Hazel Wood, Lorraine Wood all in the team.

In a closely fought game the rink went into the last peeled at 3-3 with Andrew having the last stone. The team managed to keep the house clean leaving Andrew a hit and stick to win the game which he duly dispatched. A tough game with some excellent curling throughout and a great start to the competition.

In the second session "through the house" Mike and his team of David Myles, Nikki Milne & Linda Kemp played Ron and his team of Shaun Smith, David Warden & Mike Hay in the club league. Again a hard fought game with Ron running away with a 4 shot lead to be pegged back to 4-3. The seventh end was the important one with Mike managing to take 3 shots meaning the team went down the last 2 up. Ron's team scored one at the last end leaving Mike's team winning by the odd shot. Unfortunately Ron was struggling with a very painful back and we all hope he manages to rest and recover soon.

Tonight's see's Edzell playing Forfar CC in the Rink Championship, always a tough challenge but one the team of Mike, Colin, Gordon & Ron (or Andrew) will certainly be up for. Check back tomorrow to see the result.

Linda has asked me to remind all members who haven't paid their annual subscription to do so now. The club needs the funds from the subs to meet the ever increasing expenses.

Iit is proposed a committee meeting is held on Wednesday night at the Glenesk Hotel at 7.30 pm to discuss a number of items that have arisen since the start of the season.

Finally I would remind members, particularly skips, to send me scores from the games in order that I can post them and keep members informed. My e-mail address is mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk. Or simply hand in the score card to my office and I will take it from there.

I beleive the club had a good win in the Callander Trophy over the weekend but I don't have more detail than that.

Top Ten, Aberdeen: 18th October, 2008

2008-10-19T04:02:00.000-07:00

Five club members headed up to Aberdeen Ice Rink on Saturday 18th October to compete in the Area 9 Top Ten Competition.

Ron, Bob, Russell, Sandra & Mike put in a sterling effort playing against AWW in the first round followed by Suttieside in the second and Banchory in the third. We were slow out of the blocks against AWW giving us quite a bit of catch up in the following rounds. In the second we peeled with Suttieside then finally managing to secure a win against Banchory. Then followed the hot shots round with Ron & Mike competing for the team. Hot shots is always great fun and again it proved to be a real challenge and for the first time we put points on the board despite selecting the harder shots to double up points.

The team finished 5th out of 10 teams over all. Fotheringham emerged the overall the winners and were presented with the Ferguson Oliver Top Ten Trophy and cheque to the value of £150. AWW were second and Banchory & Suttieside joint third.

A number of comments were made on the format of the competition including the fact that the date for the competition was set too early in the season for most. Also a minimum number of team players should be set. Area 9 will look into these points for next year. All in all it was super fun day with everyone having a go in the rinks, triples & pairs. A few drinks and great company as usual with excellent swinging ice made by Andy.

First Game of The Season

2008-10-15T00:55:00.000-07:00

The first game of the new season was played out last night at Forfar Ice Rink on excellent keen ice. With eight players on the ice it was an excellent game with some great shot making and tight ends. Bob Myles team comprised of Bob, Shaun Kelly, Russell Brown & Bob Miller with Mike Ferguson's team comprising of Mike, Andrew Ferguson, Shaun Smith & David Myles.

Special mention must go to David Myles who must have played as close to a 100% game as you can get with every shot played to perfection. I am certain David wouldn't mind me mentioning that he was slightly concerned before the game that he might get tired but commented at the end that he felt good throughout and thoroughly enjoyed the game, even managing to sweep. Mike's team eventually managed to come out on top with an 11 to 5 final score. Here is hoping the rest of the season can be as good fun and challenging as this opening game.

Also anyone who hasn't considered playing in the top ten in Aberdeen this coming Saturday (18th October) should do so now contacting Ron (01356 647212) if you can make it. We still need more players and it is an excellent day out.

Follow curling....

2008-09-19T01:19:00.001-07:00

Edzell Bonspieal Goup Picture

For those members who like to keep up to date with curling events across Scotland I highly recommend the following sites as a good source of up to date information. I have added them to the links section on this site for easy access.

http://www.curlingtoday.blogspot.com/

http://www.royalcaledoniancurlingclub.org/

Good surfing !!

On the home front Ron has sent out the 2008/09 syllabus and I am currently arranging for our printers to produce a proper printed booklet version which should be with us within the next fortnight. We are also working on a maildrop flyer around Edzell and District in an effort to attract new members. More on that later. Keep checking back for up to date information and game results. Please forward any game results to me for posting on the blog. My e-mail address is mike@ferguson-oliver.co.uk

Bye for now

Grand Match Champions

2008-09-10T05:08:00.000-07:00

I thought I would open this blog with a bit of history and remind members of one of the club's proudest moments. On a cold winter day on the Lake of Montieth 8 hardy Edzell Curlers fought the conditions to win the original Grand Match Trophy a feat that has never been repeated to this day.

Sadly some of our 1979 Grand Match regime are no longer with us but their names are legend. Sandy Callegari, Dave Hood Snr, Dave Wilson and Bob Inglis were all part of a great history of the club. Dod Hay, Dave Hood Jnr (missing from picture), Bobby Craik and Robert Miller are still very much with us and await the call to defend the trophy.

These stalwart curlers were very much a part of the transition from outdoor to indoor curling and through them and others, Edzell enjoyed considerable success at their home rink of the old Dundee Ice Rink. Bobby Craik will tell you that curling was always meant to be a social sport where you worked hard on the ice and twice as hard off it. ‘Doon the Toon’ in Dundee was not for the faint hearted but it is perhaps better not to go there !!