\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSupplied photo<\/p>\n
(From left) Ryan Miller, Mark Lawson, Nikki Webb and Corey Boisvert play regularly in the Keystone Pride Curling League at the Granite Curling Club.<\/p><\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n
Keystone Rainbow Curling League is active on social media. It has attracted members mainly through word of mouth, and Lawson said there\u2019s room for more participants. The league is split into four divisions based on skills and experience, so curlers should be evenly matched. Those wanting to try it out can register as spares.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis year, we have many new teams who have never curled before,\u201d Lawson said. \u201cWe always try to host a few learn-to-curl events. We had a couple in the spring and did a few in September. We had 45 people sign up and some of those people have signed up for our leagues. It\u2019s great to see new people entering the sport.\u201d<\/p>\n
The fun extends beyond the ice. Keystone Rainbow Curling League hosts an annual bonspiel in February and holds regular evening social events. Every March, the league sends a team National Pride Curling championships, to be held in St. John\u2019s, N.L. in 2024.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s about building community,\u201d Lawson said. \u201cWe curl every Sunday, with draw times at 1:30 and 4, but we also have many social events throughout the year. We have holiday dinners. After each game, people stay around for food and drink.\u201d<\/p>\n
The league is an affiliate of Out There Winnipeg, which offers sports and recreation events such as hiking, bowling, volleyball and gaming. Lawson said the organization provides valuable ways for people to connect, find safe places and build community.<\/p>\n
Lawson has been a Keystone Rainbow member since he moved to Winnipeg in 2011. He said it was an excellent way to meet people and build friendships.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe welcome people of all ages and abilities,\u201d Lawson said. \u201cWe have members from 18 to 75, and juniors are welcome too. \u201cAs a 2SLGBTQ sport, we\u2019re an open league. Teams can be made up of any combination of players.\u201d<\/p>\n
Lawson invited those wanting to learn more to visit keystonecurling.com<\/a>, email keystonecurling@outlook.com<\/a> and follow them on Instagram (@keystonecurling) and Facebook (facebook.com\/keystonerainbow<\/a>).<\/p>