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Apprendre à jouer au Curling et ses règles

Learn to play Curling and the rules

Have you ever tried curling? Winter sports are attracting more and more people. The great classic is skiing and snowboarding in the mountains. But there are other interesting activities that can be enjoyed indoors. These include ice hockey and curling, which has become very popular in recent years.

It's said to be a fun sport and a good way to relieve the stress of everyday life. What's more, it's a very simple team sport.

Are you interested in curling? Would you like to learn how to play curling and learn the rules? Find out here what you need to know before signing up at a curling centre near you.

History of curling

Curling is defined as a team sport played on ice with polished stone pucks. It involves two teams of four players. Their aim is to reach the house or target by sliding the puck.

The sport originated in Scotland around the 16th century. Curling stones dating back to 1511 have been found in Stirling and Perth (Scotland). Perth is now home to the headquarters of the World Curling Federation. It is said to be the birthplace of the sport.

This sport was played in winter on frozen ground, such as a swamp or frozen pond. The game quickly spread throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. In 1865, the first international match was held in Buffalo. It pitted Canadian and American curlers against each other.

In 1924, curling was officially included in the sports programmes of the Olympic Games. In 1932, it became a demonstration sport. It was not until 1998 that it regained its place as an Olympic sport, and remains so to this day.

At the end of the XXᵉ century, curling stones were standardised and curling practice halls were built.

What are the rules of curling?

The first rules of curling were drawn up by the Scots in 1834. The great Caledonian club was inspired by them. And the basic rules of the game have been preserved to this day.

First of all, the match is played between two teams of four players, each with a substitute. It consists of 10 rounds. In a round, each team receives eight stones to throw.

Then, once the stone has been delivered, the team members can use a broom to brush the ice and smooth its path. The opposing team can place stones called guards to prevent access to the house.

The point is then awarded only when the stones thrown penetrate the house or at least its extremities, provided that they are closer than those of the opponents. If the score is tied, a final end is thrown to determine the winner.

Finally, curling is unique in that there is no referee. As long as the curlers know the rules of the game, everything can run smoothly.

The role of curlers

Each curler has a specific task. First, the first curler or lead delivers the first two stones. Then the second curler delivers the third and fourth stones. Then the third curler delivers the fifth and sixth stones. Finally, the last two stones are played by the skip.

He develops all the techniques needed to win the game. He generally communicates aloud with the members of his team to give them instructions. The fifth player can replace the others if necessary, usually in the event of injury.

What about curling stone?

The stone, the main tool used in curling, is the distinctive feature of the game. It is circular in shape, with a diameter of around 30 cm and a height of 11.43 cm. Made of granite, this heavy stone weighs around 20 kg.

What's more, it has a coloured handle that allows you to apply a rotation. The stone will then move in a curved shape towards the target. This effect is called "curling".

The whole game is based on manipulating this tool. Each throw has a specific target. As well as achieving the target, it may involve eliminating the opponent's stones or the stones themselves for a replacement.

A stone can also be used as a barrier to block the entrance to the target. In all cases, as soon as the stone is thrown by a curler, the three other team-mates can act on its trajectory without touching it. With a broom, they can rub the track to improve the speed of the movement.

How do I play curling?

It's not a complicated sport, and anyone can learn quickly and play. The only requirement is that you practise a little with the broom and the curling stone. All curlers should feel comfortable with these tools.

By forming two teams of four people, you can start to enjoy curling. Normally, in a curling club, there are always new and old players. You can then start training with the help of a coach and experienced players.

Play must start at the hack, behind the house or target. The stone must be thrown before the hog line. To be valid, it must penetrate the second hog line. The aim of each team is to reach the house and score points.

After each arrival, these points are counted. The team scores points if its stones are closest to the centre of the house. The winner is the team with the most points at the end of the game.

After a few exercises, you'll be able to master curling with your fingertips and have lots of fun.

Conclusion on curling and the rules of play

Curling is a game that doesn't require a great deal of physical strength. Anyone can play once they've practised.

Simply form two teams of four people. Then you can throw the stone before the centre line, making sure it hits "home".

A point is awarded when the stone reaches the house, and the winning team is the one that scores the most points.

After reading this article, you'll be able to learn a bit more about curling. Now it's time to practise and play like a real expert.