The ice at the Kinplex is converted into 13 curling rinks and welcomes students from Grades 3 to 6 from all over the city. (CHAT News)

By Eli J. Ridder | @EliRidder

Registration opens for 59th annual Jam Pail Bonspiel

Jan 24, 2024 | 11:33 AM

It’s back.

Registration for Medicine Hat‘s longest-running sports event, the Jam Pail Bonspiel, is now open.

The ice at the Kinplex will be converted into 13 curling rinks for students from Grades 3 to 6 and is running Feb. 21 and 22.

The bonspiel was originally created to provide students with an activity during a teacher’s convention that focused on participation, sport, and fun.

For many of these students, it is their first introduction to the concept of curling.

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The city’s recreation program coordinator Mark Risdon said he’s looking forward to the bonspiel getting underway.

“We are excited to be back at the rink for this family-friendly event,” Risdon said in a news release.

“We consistently see over 300 students participate in the event and encourage families and friends to come out and cheer their student(s) on in a friendly-competition.”

Tin pails used for storing jam were filled with water and frozen and used as curling rocks, and according to the city, that is how the Jam Pail Bonspiel was named.

Those interested can register at MedicineHat.ca/JampailBonspiel.