The Quebec International Bonspiel is one of the oldest uninterrupted amateur sporting competitions in the world, having run each year since 1913 in the city known as the cradle of curling in North America.
Two teams from the Creemore Curling Club embarked to Quebec to compete in the 99th Quebec International Bonspiel two weeks ago. Creemore has sent at least one team every year since 1969. This year’s teams did exceptionally well, receiving a gold medal and a silver medal in their respective divisions.
The gold medal team, which had a fabulous 7-2 record, consisted of Paul Crevier, Gord Fuller, Bruce Folkard from Guelph, Paul Millsap, Ernie Purkis and Dennis Millsap.
The Silver Medal team, who had an impressive record of 6-3, was made up of Howard Walker, Robert McArthur, Steve Lindsay and rookies Kevin Degroot and Jamie Brown
On an impressive individual note, Paul Millsap was recognized for 40 years of attendance. In addition to being awarded with what’s known as the “Ironman” pin, he also received a a letter from Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
“The curling rink is a place where many wonderful friendships begin,” wrote the Prime Minister. “Your longstanding involvement in competetive curling has garnered you many friends and admirers over the years. This is because you exemplify the spirit of cameraderie and fair play that are the trademarks of this wonderfully Canadian sport.”
Harper also credited Millsap for his 53 years of membership at the Creemore Curling Club.
A special thank you goes out to Gord Fuller and Creemore Springs Brewery for their continued support of the Creemore teams and their sponsorship of the “Ontario Cup.”