Peoria Standard

The Waltham Curling Club, the oldest curling club in Illinois, located in Triumph near I-39 and just north of I-80 in LaSalle County, is offering fun for the entire family. With leagues for men, women, and children ages 8 and up, the club welcomes both experienced curlers and those new to the sport. The curling season runs from early November through late March, providing ample opportunities for everyone to participate.

"Our goal is to make curling accessible to everyone," said a representative from the Waltham Curling Club. "We want to create a welcoming environment where families can come together and enjoy the sport."

The indoor facility in Triumph boasts three lanes of groomed ice, where participants slide a 42-pound polished granite stone down a 150-foot lane on a two-inch sheet of ice. The team, consisting of sweepers, strategically use brooms to warm the ice and alter the stone's direction. The objective is to get the stone closest to the center of the bullseye, or button, to win the end. With eight stones thrown per end, curling combines physical skill with strategic thinking.

Described as "shuffleboard on ice" or even "chess on ice," curling offers a unique blend of athleticism and mental acuity. Its inclusive nature allows all members of a family, young and old, to compete at the same level.

One of the highlights of the Waltham Curling Club is its affordability. Membership fees are just over $200, making it an accessible option for individuals and families alike. Additionally, the club offers a special "Mug Club" membership, where members can enjoy personalized drinking mugs and affordable beer refills for under $200 for the entire season.

"Curling is not just a sport, it's a social experience," said a club member. "After a game, it's common to gather and enjoy a cold drink while engaging in postgame activities. The camaraderie among members is truly special."

Unlike other private curling clubs in the Chicago area that can cost thousands of dollars per year, the Waltham Curling Club prides itself on being inclusive and affordable. It aims to provide a unique opportunity for individuals and families to engage in this captivating sport without breaking the bank.

The roots of the Waltham Curling Club can be traced back to Scottish immigrants who introduced curling to Waltham Township in the mid-1800s. Originally played outdoors on frozen ponds and farm fields, the club was officially established in 1884 by John Currie, a Scottish curling enthusiast. Over the years, the club has evolved, moving to Triumph in 1937 and transitioning to artificial ice indoors in 1954.

Every four years, during the Winter Olympics, curling experiences a surge in popularity as viewers become fascinated by the sport and seek opportunities to try it out for themselves. The Waltham Curling Club welcomes newcomers, providing group opportunities to learn and grow in the sport.

If you're looking for a fun and engaging activity for the whole family, look no further than the Waltham Curling Club. With its rich history, affordable membership fees, and inclusive atmosphere, it's the perfect place to discover the excitement of curling.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://repryanspain.com/2023/12/04/curling-club-in-rural-illinois-offers-fun-for-all-ages/