Not many people may have known it, but Gananoque had the honor of playing host to the OCA or Ontario Curling Association Bantam Provincial Championships for young kids a few weeks ago on February 3. The event drew in over 30 players from 8 different teams vying for the chance to represent the Southern Ontario region at this year’s Winter Games.

The 4-day event was held at the Gananoque Curling Club along William Street, and was attended by young boys and girls aged 12 to 16, some competing, and some of whom came to watch the games. It was an odd sight, especially for those not familiar with curling – the scene was composed of children crouching close to the ground with broomsticks, all concentrating on scoring a goal.

Brian Brooks, the OCA 2010’s Host Committee Chairman, welcomed the players and encouraged them to do their best and play fair, telling them that they are now part of a centuries-old sport that came to the shores of Canada as far back as the 1700s. He added that competing at the event meant that they were all champions in their own right.

Gananoque Mayor Jim Garrah also spoke at the opening ceremonies and congratulated the kids for making it this far.

While not many people in the province may have known it, Gananoque had the honor of hosting the OCA or Ontario Curling Association’s Bantam Provincial Championships for young kids on the 3rd of February. The championships drew in 16 teams from all across Ontario for some intense competitive curling at its best.

The Gananoque Curling Club, located along William Street, was where the championships were held. The event saw the participation of over 80 boys and girls aged 12 to 16 from the different curling teams that vied for the opportunity to represent the Southern Ontario region in this year’s Winter Games.

Brian Brooks, chairman of OCA 2010 bantam division Host Committee, welcomed the young curlers and encouraged them to do their best and reminded them that they are now part of an old sport that came to Canada in the 1700s. He urged them to never forget that they’ve earned the right to compete at the event through their dedication and hard work.

Both Gananoque Mayor Jim Garrah and OCA director for youth relations and competitions, Joan O’Leary, spoke at the championships’ opening ceremonies and congratulated the young players for making it this far.

Indeed, the future of this sport looks to be bright in the hands of these kids.