(Radio Iowa) – The opening ceremonies of the Olympics in Beijing are Friday night, but the international competition is already underway in some sports — like curling. Emily Nelson, with the Cedar Rapids Curling Club, says people who see the sport on T-V and are curious should visit the rink and sign up for one of the upcoming “Learn to Curl” training sessions.

It’s said the sport of curling began on frozen lochs and marshes in Scotland during the early 1500s. The modern version still involves sliding large stones across the ice toward targets, and while it may look easy, Nelson assures there’s an abundance of skill and fitness involved.

Photo from the Cedar Rapids Curling Club

The Cedar Rapids-based club had more than 80 members before COVID and is now looking to rebuild its ranks. Nelson says current members hail from all over eastern Iowa, from Cedar Falls to Washington.

Events are planned throughout February and into March so you can learn the rules, techniques and etiquette needed to curl — and then put your new skills to the test. Learn more at:
https://cedarrapidscurling.com/