New Year, New You… New Sport?

I just started curling this winter. Most people’s first impression of curling comes from the Winter Olympics: watching the pros slide round granite stones down the ice, furiously sweeping the ice to urge the stone to move faster or curl more. These elite athletes make it look so easy. My legs and I beg to differ. Lots of new stretches and exercises, not to mention learning how to walk on ice while sweeping. It’s been a fun experience. Isn’t that what a new year is all about? A blank slate, a fresh start, a chance to do something new. 

Thinking of trying a winter sport? ‘Tis the season! 

The Mercer County Ice Rink is open for the winter. It’s a great place to take a lesson. They also have open skate times, times reserved for seniors, and birthday party packages. It’s a fun way to get in some winter exercise for folks at all levels of skating experience.  

Maybe horseback riding is more your speed? The Mercer County Stables offers trail riding through the winter at Mercer Meadows. Their Equine Assisted Therapy is very popular. They also have lessons and even a Book Buddies program where children can read to the horses! Check out their website to see this month’s schedule of programs. 

Several local curling clubs have beginner events throughout the season. Plainfield Curling Club and Jersey Pinelands Curling Club both offer classes for folks who are interested in learning. Bucks County Curling Club is currently closed to the public, but you can sign up to be notified when they open up for public events. 

If you’d rather explore a winter sport from the safety of your couch, the library system has dozens of books on ice hockey, skiing, figure skating, and other winter sports. Check out The Making of a Miracle by Mike Eruzione, about the gold medal-winning 1980 Olympic team competing during the cold war; or Powder Days: Ski Bums, Ski Towns and the Future of Chasing Snow by Heather Hansman, which delves into the history of skiing in the U.S. and some ideas about its future. And if you do decide to head outside for some hearty hiking, you might want to borrow Ultralight Winter Travel: The Ultimate Guide to Lightweight Winter Camping, Hiking, and Backpacking by Justin Lichter and Shawn Forry, for great advice on getting into the backcountry in cold weather. 

I hope you get to try something fun and new this year! 

- Sharon GR, Hickory Corner Branch