Rock the River brings community together

Lord Roberts

Rock the River Festival — an outdoor curling bonspiel to be held on the Red River from Feb. 6–8 — celebrates health and community spirit while raising funds for the Heart & Stroke Foundation and KidSport Manitoba.

Since 2002, Rock the River (formerly known as Ironman Outdoor Curling) has raised more than $250,000 for local charities.

What began as a grassroots initiative has evolved to become a flagship winter festival, attracting more than 32 local and international teams each year.

This year, curlers of all abilities will gather at the Redboine Boat Club (20 Churchill Dr.) to compete.

Even if you’ve never curled before, don’t let that hold you back. Newbies are welcome.

“We like to compare outdoor curling to playing shuffleboard on ice. You don’t need to be a curling expert to play,” said Rock the River media co-ordinator Danielle Salchert. “Our curling community is really supportive, and we help each other learn the game. “

To sign up, you can create or join a team of four to five curlers. Be sure to register before the Jan. 30 deadline.

Registered teams are guaranteed three games. Half of the $200 fee will go to the charity you select during registration.

“The event is a friendly winter competition that brings friends, family and neighbours together to rally around a great cause, and have some fun. The recipients of the funds raised are so appreciative of everyone’s efforts,” Salchert said.

A high school tournament, open to all Manitoba high school students in grades nine to 12, will be held concurrently. Once a school team registers and pays, it will be added to the high school pool and assigned draw times.

As with other festivals, Rock the River’s success depends on a dedicated roster of volunteers, who help out with everything from setup and registration to safety and hospitality.

If you would like to volunteer, complete the form at rocktheriver.ca/#Volunteer by Jan. 29.

Rock the River is a community affair. Families and spectators are welcome to cheer on the curlers, order food from the local vendors such as Jojo’s Wood Fire Italian Kitchen, and take in the entertainment.

If you plan to walk, cycle or snowshoe, you can also access the event via the Nestaweya River Trail.