Interest in curling remains strong and Port Moody and Coquitlam should think carefully before curtailing programs, says a director with the Port Moody Curling Club.
Peter Muir said changes to club programs could have the effect of sending some people away and reducing opportunities for drop-in and school programs.
"Do you want to take away from a sport that goes from eight to 88 [years], that goes to the whole gamut? I curl with an 88-year -old. This is the only sport they can come out and have fun and socialize. It's a way to get them out," Muir said.
He was responding to a proposal to merge the Port Moody and Coquitlam curling clubs, which would double the PoMo club from 330 to 660 curlers.
The issue arose this winter after Coquitlam council looked at a report that noted curling has only 20% cost recovery, compared to 60% for other ice arena uses, and ice time is at a premium the city.
Muir said he appreciates PoMo for consulting with his group about various options and while no decisions have been made — the next steps include talking to Coquitlam about its plans — Muir is concerned adding more draws to the day will make games late or take up time during the day used for youth curling.
Still, his club is prepared to work with the city of PoMo to see what can be done to accommodate Coquitlam curlers.
"It would be sad to see Coquitlam curlers go," he said, pointing out that the two clubs are among the largest in the province.
Port Moody council agreed to allow staff to discuss moving Coquitlam curlers to PoMo's curling rink. At its Tuesday meeting, councillors supported the notion, although it would cost the city $11,000 to take on the service.
"I really applaud this, I know this may seem bold to some," said Mayor Mike Clay, who said the move would build the club over time. "I think this is exactly what we need to do."
