Winter Olympic gold medalist Rhona Martin skated into Sheffield to launch a new series of Saturday night curling sessions. See the Video / Gallery
The 43-year-old was the special guest at iceSheffield, in Attercliffe, for the first of the new public pay as you go curling sessions.
Rhona hosted a coaching session for beginners and then took part in a short game with those lucky enough to attend on the night.
Rhona, who was a BBC pundit at this year's Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, became a national treasure in 2002 when she led her all-Scottish team to Olympic gold for Great Britain.
She famously released the stone of destiny to win gold at the Salt Lake City Games.
Rhona said: “The launch was brilliant. The curlers were so enthusiastic and loved it. The standard was great even though they were only novice level, you put a slider on them and off they went. They had great delivery and were all really keen.
“Even though they only spent 20 minutes learning before they played, they did really well. Curling is a great, fun sport and vey sociable. At my club, the youngest is 10 and the oldest is 85 and we all play against each other, alongside champions in there as well. So the sport is just great fun and a challenge. No matter what ability you are you can play it.”
The game involves careful strategy to decide where to send the stone along the ice and get it closest to the centre of the house.
Curlers play in warm, loose fitting clothes, gloves and a hat, and rubber soled shoes.
Dave Olivant said “The whole event was well worth it. Everyone was enthusiastic and as soon as we can we will be back again.”
The launch follows on from the success of iceSheffield’s popular daytime curling sessions, which started in February this year to coincide with the Winter Olympics.
Mandy Parker, general manager at iceSheffield, which is operated by Sheffield International Venues, said: “We were delighted to welcome Rhona Martin to iceSheffield for the launch of our new Saturday night curling sessions. She was fantastic with the groups and they learnt so much from her in a short space of time.
“By running these affordable evening sessions we hope to make the sport even more accessible to more people. It is a great way to keep fit and healthy or enjoy as a competitive sport. It also provides an opportunity for people to have fun, socialize and meet new friends.”
The sessions take place every Saturday night and cost £3.50 per person. For more information or to book please contact reception on 0114 223 3900.
