Curling Open Day: Saturday 10th October, 2009

Just a quick reminder that Forfar Curling Centre is holding it's annual free open day on Saturday 10th October starting at 10am. The session will consist of a demonstration game, a brief history of the sport followed by coaching and a chance to play a game.

Previous open days have proven a great success so please rally numbers to make this year equally successful. Guests can simply turn up on the day or pre-book by calling 01307 468668.

Suggested clothing is warm loose clothes with trainers. Follow up coaching will be available on Saturday 17th October and Saturday 24th October at 10am on both sessions. Further coaching will be available throughout the season.

FCC has put together a poster to publicise the event. If you can display the poster or would be willing to distribute it please e-mail: mferguson@forfarindoorsports.co.uk or call 01307 468668.

RCCC Masterclass: Saturday 19th December, 2009.

The next RCCC Masterclass will be hosted by Forfar Ice Rink on Saturday 19th December. This is a great opportunity to seek advice and feedback to improve areas of your own game and to use some of the technologies used at the elite end of the sport. To download an application form or for more information on the Masterclass, click RCCC Masterclass.

I would strongly recommend anyone with an interest in developing their game to register for the Masterclass. I have been present at two so far and the reaction from attendees to both was entirely postive. Judith McFarlane and her team are continually developing and improving the content on the day and it would be great if Forfar could support their efforts with a full turnout. Places are limited with bokings taken on a first come, first booked basis. So the message is clear don't delay book your place now.

We will post a full agenda for the day shortly.

Almost ready.....

The stones are lined up and waiting........

The sheets are freshly painted.....

Most importantly the plant is installed........

Events are progressing well at the ice rink as we prepare for the new season. A great deal of effort has gone in over the close season with car parking improvements, repairs, decoration and of course an entire new plant.

The plant is fully installed and was commissioned off over the weekend. The picture shows Steve Wilson & Andy McGlynn getting some instruction from the commissioning engineer Martin. Temperature is gradually being reduced in preparation for the laying of the core ice.

Other improvements are planned in the build up to the first session of ice on 10th October, 2009.

The management & staff are looking forward to welcoming everyone to a new season of competitive yet friendly curling. Please keep visiting this blog for updates and news.

Transfer of Ownership

The ownership of Forfar Indoor Sports has changed hands with local curler and businessman, Mike Ferguson taking over the helm from Brian Bonnyman after 20 years dedication and commitment.

Commenting on the transfer Brian says "I am very pleased to announce the ownership of the Forfar Indoor Sports has been taken over by Mike Ferguson a well known figure in curling circles.

Mike has been the RCCC Area 9 representative and was the first chairman of the Board of Directors of the RCCC. Less well known he was also a competitive bowler in his younger days.

Mike is a keen and enthusiastic curler as well as an able businessman and I am delighted to be handing over to such a competent successor.

All arrangements with the Forfar Center Curling Club, Ice World Skating Club and the Forfar Indoor Bowling Club will continue as before as will the ice staff and catering arrangements although I am sure Mike is brimming with ideas to impove all our activities.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my 20 years ownership of Forfar Indoor Sports and am pleased to hand over with everything in good order including a recently renewed bowling carpet and brand new ice making equipment which will set up operations for many years to come.

I will of course continue with my curling and look forward to seeing everybody in the future."

Likewise Mike is equally enthusiastic. "I am delighted to write to you as the proud new owner of Forfar Indoor Sports having agreed terms with Mr Brian Bonnyman after extremely amicable negotiations.

My first act is to thank Brian for his dedication and commitment to Forfar Indoor Sports over the past 20 years. I only hope I can build on his success to the ultimate enjoyment and benefit of all members.

As a curler, bowler and very poor ice skater I look forward to working towards developing participation in sports I am passionate about. The coming season will offer considerable opportunities to develop our sports notably a Winter Olympics and a further "Dancing on Ice" series. I sincerely hope I can work with members, listen to your ideas and suggestions to make the entire Forfar Indoor Sports experience an enjoyable and rewarding one. I look forward to working with Forfar Curling Centre, Forfar Indoor Bowling Club, Ice World Skating Club, individual clubs and members to this end.

Whilst it is my intention to keep all arrangements as is I will look to gradually bring in a few new ideas and concepts and your support and patience would be greatly appreciated. I am a great believer in communication therefore please look out for notification of events and projects as they arise."