Our old outdoor curling rink!
Secretary Alastair L came across this old map dating from about 100years ago …. you should be able to work out where it was, even though there have been innumerable changes since then. Sadly days of outdoor curling will become very rare events. There are good stories about such experiences on our website.
Points
The annual Points competition took place on Saturday 7th December. There was a great turnout and several members demonstrated their skills. There was a draw shot challenge between David Barton and Colin Bruce after they both accumulated 21 points. David kept his cool and drew the button to claim the trophy. As you can see he had his fan club with him (well done Ralph). Mike Skicko won the prize for the best score from a non skip! All the practice and playing is paying off.
Broomhall Challenge - the Willie Black Curling Stone
Report by Alastair Lamond
You may have seen the results of the Broomhall game in OCD. The overall score was very close throughout the match. We finished our game with a 7-2 defeat, shook hands and turned to the adjacent sheet where the score was 7-2 in our favour, Broomhall lying shot and John about to play the last stone. “No pressure”, as he put it. He played the shot perfectly - through a narrow port, with enough pace to tap back the shot stone and win the game and the match. The whole rink broke into spontaneous applause, including some of those waiting to play and Duncan, the iceman. It was quite a special moment and a great shot under such pressure. Thought you’d like to hear about it.
John’s winning rink: John, Nigel P, Derek A, Alastair R
The other rink: Andrew J, Alastair L, Vince R, Derek D.
Great start to the season
President Andy J led his rink to take the Jim Temple Rose Bowl on Friday 13th September. His two wins were enough to top the table. Congratulations to Bryan Mottershaw, Colin Blyth and Derek Doyle, and of course Andy J. The trophy was presented by VP Robert Smith ( his second photo of the week!)
Season starts with President v Vice President Challenge Match.
The photo was taken before the match , and in spite of the result (12-5 to the VP) the two skips were still pals afterwards.
Lelly Gray and Bob Forsyth had super games at lead. Robert played a few tremendous shots to take two 4’s in ends 1 and 3. The match almost turned in Andy’s favour in end 7 when he was lying 4 with a chance of 5 - however Robert managed to ‘sneak’ a promotion for a 1 to take a 10-5 lead into the last end. NB we managed 8 ends … a target for all matches this season.
ICC Golf Challenge: 2nd August
17 members had a good day on the turf, with only a spot of rain. The unique trophy was claimed by Mike Skicko with 38 points, one place higher than last year. Photo with President Andy. Bill Galloway was second and John Currie third. Drew Gill did not play, but he was there to see Malcolm Gray finish with the lowest score of the day, and take the ‘trophy’ he has held for quite a while!
Other prizes: The trio of Andy Johnston, Bill Galloway and Fergus Shaw won the yellow ball challenge. Derek Anderson, nearest the pin on the 6th, Murray Galloway - nearest the pin on the 15th, and Robert Smith, longest (huge!) drive on the 16th.
Many thanks to Alistair Low for organizing another successful golf challenge
Congratulations to David Barton - who has taken the role of Vice President of West of Fife Province. He represents the club as VP for two years, and the plan is that he takes over as President for 3 years, Pic is of David claiming one of his trophies with Billy Brown. Best wishes David - you will no doubt bring a lot of ideas and energy to the Province.
Annual summer bowling event
Thanks to all the members who attended the match on Sunday.
Great weather, great company a relaxing but competitive afternoon.
One match drawn and one triples up by three shots skipped by Ian Innes.
The other triples Bill Galloway and the team came back from 14-3 down to draw the game 15 - 15.
Raising £130 towards the Erskine Foundation for Forces Veterans.
This will be added to the final fundraiser later in the summer.
Well done to everyone.
Jimmy Miller
Past it President.
Memories and getting ready for the new season
The attached photo is a record of one of the 2 8enders achieved last season, sadly against another club rink. It will join the other plaques at the rink. This is a busy time for the match secretariat as they complete the programme for next season. The rinks will be drawn on 13th June!
Victory over Dunfermline
It is great to report a resounding victory v our great local rivals - this time however not on the ice but the green expanses of Pitfirrane golf course. Bill Galloway proudly holding the trophy - in the post match interview he admitted to not leading by example with his clubs, but his ‘inspirational’ leadership resulted in a well deserved win over the ‘old enemy’.
Annual General Meeting
32 members attended the 2024 AGM on 29th April. Jim Miller handed over the Presidency to Andy Johnson after his two year tenure. Robert Smith is the new vice President. The other office bearers were re-elected with full support. Phil Barton joins the committee.
The members celebrated a great season. Plans are already being made for next season. Fergus Shaw and Alastair Ritchie are new skips in the Main League and Derek Doyle and John Tibbert are new St Margaret’s League skips.
Three members, Douglas Lamond, Bob Tait and Bob Smith were to universal acclaim appointed as Honorary Presidents for great service to the club. The following section includes the presentation to members by Alastair Lamond, Club Secretary.
The next item marked an important point in the club’s history. The club has had comparatively few honorary members and none for several years. As explained briefly in the agenda notes, the committee consider that Bob Tait, Bob Smith and Douglas Lamond have made exceptional contributions, over a lengthy period, to ICC and to the wider curling world and that, with the approval of the AGM, these individuals should become honorary members, with the title, “Honorary President”.
All three have served the club with distinction as President, committee member, match secretary and skip. Bob Tait and Bob Smith also had spells as club treasurer. They all have their names on most of the club trophies, several times over.
Douglas Lamond joined the club in 1955, 69 years ago. He has a 50-year Royal Club medal, one of only two members to receive this in the last 50 years. He also played in two Grand Matches, in 1963 and 1979.
Bob Tait joined the club in 1981 and Bob Smith a year later. Both quickly embraced the game and became keen players. Through time they contributed to the administration of the game in a variety of ways, significantly raising the profile of ICC in the wider curling community, encouraging new members and contributing to the growth of the club.
Bob Tait was firstly a committee member and then chairman of the board of the RCCC. He served two spells as chairman of KCT, helping to establish our nearest rink as one of the best in the country, the second stint ending last year. He continues to serve the club as examiner of the accounts.
Bob Smith was West Fife Province President, area 10 representative and secretary. He represented ICC at the Royal Club AGM for many years. He was, and remains, a great supporter and advocate of the Indoor Grand Match in which our club has always been an eager participant. He toured Canada with the RCCC, representing club and country in 2003.
These are not insignificant matters. They take time and huge commitment.
Congratulations to John Leitch - winning the KO
John had a convincing win v Gary Waddell in the KO Final on 5th April - waiting for the details to be shared!
The next day John took the clubs league topping rink to the winners bonspiel at Kinross. They were presented with the Loch Leven's Larder Div three trophy by Club Match secretary Jim Barton - in his role as Chairman of Kinross Curling. Well done guys - div 2 next year.
Eight ender to finish round robin match in KO.
Colin Bruce ended his last round robin match in some style with an 8 ender in the seventh end. Derek Doyle and Ian Paxton are seen admiring their shots! Alastair Ritchie and Colin are behind the head looking on with satisfaction!
Colin plays Gary Waddell in the semis and Frank Cooper who took a 4 in the eight to come from behind takes a semi place v John Leitch.
Prize giving 23/24 Season
The annual distribution of prizes was moved from the Dinner to follow the closing bonspiel this season. The feedback from those present indicated this is a good move. All the prizes were awarded, although a number of members of the winning rinks were not present. The photos selected do not include photos that have already been posted below. (so Closing bonspiel 22/23:Opening bonspiel 23/24: Pairs 23/24:Points 23/24: Lamond & Murray Club Bonspiel 23/24: St. Margaret's League 23/24 see below
Photos for:
Knockout - Pollock Trophy 22/23: John Leitch, Ian Macdonald, Ian Paxton, Drew Gill/Murray Galloway
Pairs Runners up 23/24: Phil Barton, Gavin Hughes
190th Bonspiel for Alvaro Gagliardi stone: nb included as stone not presented at Stranraer and they are now in club kit! David Barton, Alastair Lamond, Derek Doyle
Inverkeithing League - Runners Up: David Barton, Bill Galloway, Billy Brown, Ian Paxton
Inverkeithing League Winners; included as it included an interesting way to include JT, look closely! Phil Barton, Robert Smith, John Tibbert, George Cheyne
Tom Clarke Bonspiel: 23rd March
This was a very special event, named to honour Tom Clarke, who died a year ago (see Memories and Stories section) We appreciated that Stephen and Alan, his sons and Ben, his grandson came along to present the magnificent trophy, crafted by Garry Douse. Fittingly it was won in this inaugural event by Alastair Lamond and his rink. Alastair who had been a colleague and fellow curler for well over 40 years gave members a summary of the special qualities Tom brought to our club. Alan gave an emotional speech emphasising the special place of Inverkeithing CC for his Dad. All present sang the club song 'Hail Caledonia', bringing back memories of the numerous times Tom sang this with pride and enthusiasm.
Photo: Stephen and Alan Clarke presenting the trophy to Alastair Lamond, Alastair Ritchie, Phil Slater and Bob Forsyth.
Well done - fourth place in the Lomond League and second in Division 1 of Loch Leven's Larder League
The squad had a great season in this competitive League at Dewars Rink, Perth. Finished in fourth place (out of 13) on 14 points. A great run in to the end of the season with 2 draws, one defeat and two wins in last two matches.
Meanwhile at Kinross we are also very pleased to have finished a close second the Dunfermline in the very competitive Loch Leven's Larder League. A solid 7 - 6 win on the final evening secured second place. Boreland jumped to third after a super win v Dunfermline.
ICC 2 win promotion to Loch Leven's Larder League Div 2 for season 24/25
The club has had a strong season in Division 3, responding well to the disappointment of relegation last year winning 6 of their 7 matches. Top spot was secured in the last game v Dollar and Devon Vale with a 9 - 4 win. Boreland 2 also finished on 12 points, however ICC had a 3 more ends (32) and an impressive shots advantage of 23 over Boreland.
Pic: Alastair Lamond (Club secretary and squad member receiving the trophy from Emma Niven of Loch Leven's Larder)
Boreland Challenge
An exciting and nerve jangling end to this annual challenge, one that means a great deal to both clubs.
John Leitch had a 3 shot lead going into the last end. Steve Jamieson missed the chance with his last stone to add a fourth with an open draw - so only taking a peel at 9 - 9. Meanwhile on the next sheet Phil Barton missed a relatively straightforward take-out to score a 4 in the fifth end - instead losing 1 to go 2 - 7 down. However the rink played well to take 5 shots in the sixth and seventh ends. They also took a single in the last end to 'steal' the match and the trophy. Congrats to Bob Bowie, Alistair Low and Mike Skicko- definitely a team effort.
Pic: Steve Jamison presenting the trophy to Phil Barton
190th Anniversary Bonspiel
The club had a great celebration (1st-3rd March) at the North West Castle. 29 curlers (sorry 3 would not make it) had a super competition where the winner was in doubt until the very last shots were played. You can get the idea of how close it was by looking at the score sheet. After points it was decided on shots scored and then shots up. So Gary Waddell pipped John Leitch to claim top spot in section B. David Barton had three more shots to top section A and so was the overall winner.
Well done to David, Alastair Lamond and Derek Doyle.
It was great to have 11 partners there are well.
Pic: the 29 curlers on the ice before final game.
Mixed Doubles with Orwell Ladies
8 members took part in a mixed doubles event with Orwell Ladies. The first event a year ago was so successful that we arranged another - perhaps it could become an annual feature.
Congratulations to Colin Ballantine (with Alyson Henderson) top pair with 15 shots. Alastair Ritchie (with Jane Drysdale) second on 12 shots (+5) just ahead of Bob Tait (with Kim Dalland) on 12 shots (+2).
Annual Dinner
Congratulations to George Cheyne. Awarded the Presidents Prize for his special contribution to the club - President Jim highlighted his commitment to curl with the club travelling over 100 miles on each trip, and always being a willing sub..
John Sinclair (Mid Calder CC) and Jim Brydie (Aberdour CC) were the guest speakers. Ian Macdonald and Dave McPherson sang their rousing favourites and Billy 'The Bard' Brown recited one of his best poems ever - he is quite a unique talent!
50 members and 21 guests had a great evening. The Dinner is definitely one of the highlights in the clubs' year.
Pic: George on left with Ian Innes
Bonspiel note cont: Thanks to Matt Scott/CVH Spirits for the support for prizes. (Whisky galore!)
We are already looking forward to our 195th and 200th anniversary celebrations.
Drawing the rinks at the hotel worked out to add some theatre to the event, and the 'Calcutta' auction seemed to be successful as well.
PS: David was very pleased to let everyone know it was his first ever trophy at a club bonspiel - surely the first of many! PPS: Phil photo-bombed the photo of the winning trio taken by Bill Galloway
Main League completed
The final four matches of the main league were completed on 20th Feb at Kinross. Three matches of the four were going to have an impact on the final positions. Bob Tait had a convincing win to jump two places up the table, leaving Bob Bowie at the bottom and facing relegation, and at the same time returning Alastair Lamond to second bottom.
The matches on Sheet B and C were set to decide the top two places in the League. Phil Barton could hold on to the title with a win or peel, however a loss and a win by David Barton would mean Barton junior would take his first title. David recovered from being 4 -0 down to win by one shot. Meanwhile Phil was behind 2-4 going into the final (7th) end) v Frank Cooper. The rink used the hammer to best effect and took a 4 to win 6 - 4 and win the League.
Pic: Robert Smith, Phil Barton, John Tibbert, George Cheyne
Congratulations to Fergus Shaw - top place in St. Margaret's League
It was a nail-biting last session in the SML League on Friday 9th February. Fergus and Alastair Ritchie both had a chance to win the League and gain automatic promotion to the main league. During the matches Fergus crept ahead until a storming recovery by Nigel Paterson. Fergus promoted a stone with the last shot of the match to the four foot to outscore the two shots that would have given Nigel victory. Team Shaw's win meant that the result in Alastair's match made no difference. Both Alastair and Garry Douse who finished second in the League have had impressive first seasons as skip in the SML.
Fergus has been well supported by Mick Schofield, Brian Mottershaw and Colin Bruce in his campaign. The latter two were unavailable for the last match with Billy Brown and David Barton stepping in as subs. It was a super evening with the 32 curlers enjoying good food and the great atmosphere at the rink.
Club Pairs
Andrew Johnston and Jim Barton are the new Club Pairs holders. It was a good match but the 4 taken on end 3 proved decisive. Phil Barton and Gavin Hughes could not take more than one on the last two ends.
Lamond and Murray Bonspiel
Alastair Lamond, our long serving club secretary took a few minutes to let everyone know about the background to the event. This was the first club bonspiel introduced 40 years ago to celebrate their 150th anniversary of the club. The trophy was presented by Lamond and Murray, and quite appropriately it was won by Club President Tom Clarke, Director of L and M. Alastair also noted that Charlie the bus driver who had stepped in to fill a last minute space, was in the winning rink. Alastair, Bob Tait and Bob Smith all played in the first L and M bonspiel.
On the night John Leitch took the trophy, and was the only rink to win both matches. He was joined by Robert Smith, Ian Macdonald and Bob Forsyth. Gary Waddell took second place closely followed by David Barton. The club welcomed Bob F and Lely Gray to their first bonspiel. There was great after meal entertainment provided by members. Derek Doyle and Mike Skicko showed real talent.
Before the results of the bonspiel were announced our club president Jim Miller presented prizes for the Points, as he was not able to attend that event in December. Everyone is very pleased to see him back in action. Derek Doyle was awarded the best newcomer prize and John Leitch picked up his second prize of the evening.
News update 15 January
Congratulations to Vice President, Andy Johnston leading his rink to win the George Sinclair Memorial Trophy at Kirkcaldy on 8th Jan. Andy, Colin Ballantine, Iain Innes and Jim Barton had a 10 -1 score enhanced by a 6 shot penalty for the opposition missing a player.
The club had a very good turnout for the Pairs competition on 13th January. 20 pairs played a round robin in two pools. Andrew Johnston/Jim Barton were unbeaten on pool B. Phil Barton/Gavin Hughes won a tight last match v Frank Cooper/Dave Neill to top group A. The top two pairs will face each other in the final on Sunday 28th January.
It was great to see our President at the pairs after a period of ill health and a stay in hospital.
Hogmanay Pairs at Kinross
Congratulations to Colin Ballantine and Derek Doyle for a great performance at the recent Hogmanay Pairs at Christmas. This event attracts some of the best curlers in Scotland, including Bruce Mouat. Derek and Colin faced Bruce and his partner, Sian Stockwell in their first match, losing by only one shot - they were leading going into the last end! This might have given both C and D a bit of a boost before our Pairs event on 13th Jan.
Inverkeithing Challenge v Scottish Disability Golf and Curling
Three members, Jim Barton, Alastair Ritchie, Phil Barton and ‘coach’ David Ramsay had a very enjoyable series of matches at Kinross just before Christmas. We had accepted an invitation to join members of SDGC in one of their regular curling experiences. The SDGC established in 2018 has provided many opportunities for members to enjoy the benefits of sports. This volunteer led organisation brought together the Scottish Disability Golf Partnership (1st 2004) and Disabled Curlers Scotland (est 2014). SDGC is a Registered Scottish Charity and is supported by dozens of volunteers, local business’s and golf and sporting facilities.
It would be great to take more opportunities to demonstrate the inclusivity of our sport with more matches against SDGC in the future. We enjoyed a break for lunch and time to chat together. Special hank to Jim Gales, President of SCGC for pulling the event together.
ICC mid season report: no 2
In the St. Margarets league the final round of matches on 9th February, when 8 of the 9 rinks play on the same evening, could provide a tense end of season for all concerned. Fergus Shaw needs only one point in his last match, unless Alastair Ritchie drops a point in any of his last two matches. (The doomsayers will say that he could still drop one point and be champion, however the shots difference is such that this can be ruled out!)
In the last round Nigel Paterson moved up the League with a peel against Robert Smith. Vince Rendall is in bottom spot after a tough match v Malcolm Gray. It has been a steep learning curve for Vince, year 1 as skip and Derek Anderson, first time as third. League details as of 22.12.23 above
Picture of Vince and his rink + John Leitch in festive gear off the ice … will the fact they wore the same outfit on the ice merit a fine at the dinner?
ICC mid season report
We have reached the mid season break and unlike last season the leader of the League table has taken a big leap forward from the rest of the pack. David Barton is unbeaten after 7 games and has a three point advantage over Phil Barton. (So will Barton senior regain two points in their match in January?.. if not the lead will increase). David has challenged for every season since becoming a skip, and so with the experience of Bill Galloway, Billy Brown and Ian Paxton he has a very strong rink.
It is looking as if the fight will be more for the runners up trophy, and there are five contenders. Every game from now is going to be critical in keeping the challenge from Phil Barton, Gary Waddell, Andrew Johnston, Colin Bruce and John Leitch alive.
The fight to avoid the bottom two places, with the bottom rink facing automatic relegation took a decisive turn on the round of last games when Bob Bowie lost to Andy Johnston (VP), who now moves closer to safety. Alastair Lamond is on the same points , but with a game in hand and better shots difference has a slight advantage. A run of wins for either team will put pressure on the rinks above them. (See screenshot of league dated 22.12.23)
Inverkeithing skip wins the Zermatt Trophy
West of Fife had a close win against East of Fife (41 - 39 shots) at Kirkcaldy on Monday 11th December. John Leitch continues his winning streak with best shots advantage in a 11 - 2 win v Kennoway. Nigel Patterson, Dave Skivens and Derek Anderson shared the success. David Barton also had a strong win v Hercules CC , 11 - 7, joined by Vince Rendall, Gavin Hughes and Phil Slater.
Points
John Leitch took the title for at least the fourth time on 9th December. 14 members completed all the disciplines, although the scoring was not as high as in some years.
Pic shows match sec Jim Barton presenting the trophy. Derrek Doyle looks on, with some satisfaction as he was the highest scoring non skip. David Barton was one of the' bridesmaids' - second for another year.
Inverkeithing CC/Preston CC Challenge
This annual challenge match lived up to expectations. Great hospitality provided by Preston CC at the Flower Bowl, and the dinner was held at Guy’s Thatched Hamlet. ICC had a strong first day leading 21 shots to 13 shots. Preston rallied well on Sunday morning and both clubs took 18 shots each. So Inverkeithing retain the trophy until Preston Challenge again at Kinross in 24/25.
We took 8 curlers and so there could be three matches we ‘borrowed’ 4 Preston curlers. Top ICC rink was Phil Barton with George Cheyne and Peter Topping and Barbara Kitchin with + 9 shots. John Leitch was +6 shots. The Inverkeithing squad was completed by Alastair Ritchie, Derek Anderson, Bill Galloway, Iain Robertson and Vice President Andy Johnston.
The final score was Inverkeithing 39 shots to Preston’s 31.
Picture of the two clubs before the first match.
November news - 8 ender achieved!
Congratulations to skip Gary Waddell with John Leitch, Bob Bowie and Colin Ballantine who achieved an 8 ender in their Loch Levens’ Larder Div 3 match v Kinross Ladies on 15th November.
Whilst we are posting here is some more news for November to keep everyone up to date.
Four members took the chance to go to the North West Castle in Stranraer in advance of our 190th celebration there in March. Phil Barton, Gavin Hughes, Alistair Low and Jim Barton had a steady bonspiel and missed out on fourth place by 1 end, and so did not come home with the Liverpool Cup and a hamper of food and rink! The IAnson is a super event where 16 rinks have great competition in a first class venue.
The club is preparing for the trip to the Flower Bowl, home of Preston CC in December. There will be a full report to look forward to.
We are also entering a busy period of local club dinners and we will be pleased to send members. Dunfermline CC and Cupar CC dinners take place on 18th November.
Club members are also appreciating the opportunity to have coaching sessions with David Ramsay at Kinross. There is a definite increase in the number of members taking time to practice and improve skills.
The League programme is about 1/3 completed with David Barton taking top spot with 5 wins out of 5, replacing Phil Barton who lost his last match v Gary Waddell.
Club members are also playing in an interesting challenge match on 23rd December at Kinross. The Scottish Disability Golf and Curling Club have invited four curlers to join a match 2 from each club playing a match. Simply another reminder that curling is a sport for all abilities.
Challenge Match: Inverkeithing CC v Cupar CC.
Alan Clark, who started his curling with Cupar and became a member of Inverkeithing in 2014, died earlier this year, and the two clubs met in a challenge match at Kinross on 23 September to mark his friendship and the fun and energy he brought to our club.
Phil Barton, Alastair Lamond, Garry Douse and Jim Barton held off a strong challenge by Cupar to win 6 - 4 after 7 ends.
There was an important social element to this match as partners came along to meet Ann Clark and daughter Heather before the match. Heather presented individual trophies to the winning rink, and in keeping with Alan’s sense of humour presented wooden spoons to the Cupar rink.
There are many reasons why this should become an annual fixture.
Pics: Heather and Ann and family with curlers after the game/the winning rink/the curlers with Ann and Heather after the presentation.
Jim Temple Bonspiel: 15th September 2023
The club had a great start to the season at the opening bonspiel with 33 members enjoying great ice, hospitality and entertainment. Andrew Johnston with his rink of Alastair Ritchie, Mick Schofield and (new member) Mike Skicko had two wins and a 10 shot surplus, narrowly pipping John Leitch (with Garry Douse, George Cheyne and Jim Barton) by one shot.
This was the 30th occasion the trophy was played for - as you will see from the picture President Jim did not have the trophy to hand to present to the winning skip - Andrew will have to wait until the club dinner!
Opening Match : President v Vice President.
Vice President Andy Johnston was heard to say he was 'heartbroken' to spoil the President's season so early after a 8 - 3 victory in the President v Vice President match. The picture captures the President allegedly trying to get new players as the match progressed. In fact he was getting instructions from the Scottish Curling website.
New member Mike Skicko played. Unfortunately Justin Grant and Jack Ballantine were unavailable.
Welcome to the new season - we have three new curlers, Justin Grant, Jack Ballantine and Mike Skicko, ready to show their prowess on the ice.
The first match was on Tuesday 12th Sept. the annual challenge between the President and Vice President.
The opening bonspiel on Friday 15th September will be an evening of getting back together, entertainment and curling!!
Just before the curling started a group from the club accepted an invitation to bowl at Rosyth.
It was a great afternoon with the lads. The President, Jimmy Miller and Dave Skivens won with 12 shots up.
Proceeds went to the Erskine Foundation Ex Forces charity. NB two players were disqualified trying to sweep the bowls into the head!
ICC - Annual Golf Outing
The annual club golf challenge serves as a great reminder that the curling season is not too far away. 14 club members and a few observers appreciated the good playing conditions, and the rain forecasted did not appear. Aberdour Golf course and club house did us proud. Alistair Low does a great job organising this event.
Nearest the pin on 6th: Colin Ballantine
Nearest the pin on 10th: Robert Smith
Longest drive on 17th: Derek Doyle
Yellow Ball competition: Alistair Low, Alastair Lamond, Phil Barton
Tail End Charlie! : Drew Gill (retains his hold on this prestigious trophy)
3rd: Alastair Lamond 38 pts
2nd: Mike Sticko (new member) 41 pts
1st: Phil Barton 41 pts
The result was very close with Phil winning the trophy for the third time, pipping Mike on count back on last 9 holes. Robert Smith IV has also claimed the trophy three times, with Gavin Hughes in the lead with four victories.
Picture of John Currie, Malcolm Gray, Colin Ballantine on the first tee.
The trophy was donated for the first event back on 1996 - a now rare ash tray donated by Ian Robertson, Queens Hotel with the plinth provided by Ian Macdonald.
AGM
The season closed with an enthusiastic gathering at the Annual General Meeting on 24th April. The reports presented were positive and confirmed this has been a super season on and off the ice.
Next season Bob Bowie and Colin Ballantine will be skips in the Inverkeithing League and Alistair Low, Garry Douse and Vince Rendall complete the line up in the St. Margaret’s League.
Everyone is pleased with the new database for fixtures and results, from now to be referred to as the OCD.
Members took time to pay respect to John (Jock) Wilson, Brian Nicholson and Alan Clark who all passed away in the past year. President Jim Miller thanked all members in appreciation of their support and enthusiasm and he looked forward to next season.
Pic: Tony Ayres with Ian Macdonald look happy after the meeting.
Inverkeithing Curling Club Closing Bonspiel
The club had a great last hurrah before the end of the season at Kinross. A new format was introduced where all players changed playing position after each end. After 2 four end games one rink was unbeaten. Congratulations to Bob Bowie, Mick Schofield, Bob Tait and Ian Innes.
We welcomed several guests, who participated with great enthusiasm. One guest Cameron joined his dad, David and Grandad, Phil, a rare three generation trio in our club.
The club is in fine spirits at the end of a tremendous season.
The final competition, our knockout draws to a close on 6th April (watch out for the report)
Final League positions 2022/23
The two main leagues were completed before the Annual Dinner. The final round of matches took place with 8 rinks appearing at Kinross on both nights - a positive change allowing the final outcomes to unfold in front of most of the club. Bob Bowie stepped up to first with a close win, as his rival Colin Ballantine was pipped at the post in the St Margaret's League.
In the main league Colin Bruce was beaten by Alistair Low - a long overdue high quality performance from the rink, whilst Phil Barton recovered from a nervous start to capture the title with a solid win.
A great season so far - now onto the Knockout!
Annual Dinner 24.2.23
50 members and 20 guests enjoyed our annual dinner. Prizes for the season were announced with the main league trophy being collected by Phil Barton, Ian Macdonald, Billy Brown and President Jimmy Miller.
A great range of speeches and entertainment into the small hours!
Inverkeithing celebrate a win against the USA tourists.
"On a bright, but cold Monday morning, 16th January, Kirkcaldy Ice Rink and West Fife Provence welcome the American touring party on their next stop of their whirlwind tour of Scottish ice rinks.
Following welcome speeches, we were lined up in order of the rinks in relation to where they would be playing on the ice. As Inverkeithing, myself, Alistair Lamond, Frank Cooper and Alistair Low were to be playing furthest away on the sheet nearest the barrier (no surprise there) I was given the honour of leading the West Fife rinks onto the ice holding the Scottish flag. The irony was not lost on some!
Following handshakes with our opponents, pins were exchanged and the game got underway. It is fair to say that Kirkcaldy Ice Arena delivered the same standard of ice as if it was a normal club night. A bit disappointing and the tourists told us it was the worst ice they had experience up to then. That being said they jumped into a 4-2 lead after 4 ends. Thankfully we racked the brooms and we're able to regroup after a some members of our rink, the skip included enjoyed a dram. This seemed to make all the difference as Inverkeithing never looked back and with the aid of a 5 ran out 12-4 winners. Overall West Fife won 3 of the 4 matches with Boreland having a handsome 16-1 victory, one of the largest Scottish wins of the tour. However, it was all to no avail as the Americans retained the magnificent Herris Maxwell trophy following the conclusion of all the matches.
To round off the tourists visit to the Fife Provences' a meal was hosted at Loch Leven's Larder with all the usual speeches and the Tourists entertained us with a selection of songs.
The whole occasion was a great experience and one that Inverkeithing members should consider participating in when future touring parties come to Scotland."
Gary Waddell
pics below: Alistair, Alastair, Gary and Frank with the oppostion
and Gary leading out the curlers before the match - a Welsh curler carrying the saltire!
Inverkeithing Challenge v Preston CC
This annual match took place at Kinross Curling on 18th/19th Feb. . ICC built up a big lead on Saturday. Preston rallied well on Sunday am and had a slight advantage, but not enough to take the trophy from ICC. Phil Barton was best rink for ICC with +16 and Guy Topping for PCC with + 6.
PCC won the golf match on Friday at Aberdour GC. ICC hosted a dinner at the Aberdour Hotel on Friday and Aberdour Golf Club on Saturday. We look forward to more encounters with our great friends from Preston CC.
pic below: the assembled curlers and President Jim Miller presenting the trophy to Phil
Support for Ukrainian Family
Alastair Ritchie and family have been hosting a family from Ukraine for several months. After a suggestion from Billy Brown members of the club donated food and drink to form a hamper for the family. The photo was taken before presenting the hamper.
Lamond & Murray Bonspiel.
A great night for the club with a wide range of entertainers following the curling. Phil Barton with Vince Rendall, Gavin Hughes & Ed Brown won by the closest margin from Vice President Andy Johnston, skipping his first bonspiel rink. Both rinks won their games, with +6 shots. Phil had 10 shots to Andy's 9.
We welcomed three guests - 2 sons and one grandson of members. Jack Ballantine, Ben Clarke and Nick Skivens. The rink staff team were on best form.
Billy Brown and Alastair Ritchie thanked members for the donations (food/drink) for the Ukrainian family staying with Alastair. Ian Macdonald sang the club song - Hail Caledonia. A new verse was launched and received positive acclaim. (see note below)
Other entertainers included Dave McPherson, Tom Clarke, Mick Schofield, Billy Brown, Garry Douse and Dave Skivens
Hail Caledonia - Birthplace of curlers,
whose names are inscribed on their trophies of fame.
Curlers whose lives are saved from the scrapheap by sweeping and roaring their stones down the game.
Curlers - I give you a toast - make it slainte,
Fill up your chalice without any shame.
Here's to your out turn and even your take out!
The Welsh are still frozen from our refrain!
COPYRIGHT: INVERKEITHING CC
USA TOUR TO SCOTLAND Inverkeithing 12 USA 4
A super day on 16th Jan 2023 at Kirkcaldy for four ICC members as they competed with three other rinks from the Province v the USA touring team. Gary Waddell, with Frank Cooper, Alastair Lamond & Alistair Low were down 2-4 after four ends. The tradition of stacking brooms on tour with a wee dram did wonders and the match finished 11 - 4 to Inverkeithing. They certainly helped as this was the best performance by the Scots v USA on their 3 week tour.
There is no doubt the USA curlers had not experienced ice conditions like Kirkcaldy for a long time/ever before! Nevertheless they had a great time and had a celebratory dinner on the following evening at Loch Leven Larder.
Gary and Alistair both experienced what lifting the Herries Maxwell trophy might feel like!
The USA tour blog has many photos and also gave great coverage to the fact that Alastair Lamond was able to produce the programme from the initial USA tour to Scotland back in 1952. His maternal grandfather, John Preston, participated in the tour playing at Crosmyloof.
Exciting League Table
As we reach the end of the year the main League is developing into a fascinating finale. Four rinks are in contention with a significant number of the final matches being between these four rinks. Current champion Andrew Johnston and runner up Colin Bruce are well in contention. They are joined by David Barton, who was third last year and Phil Barton, back in the skip role after a three season hiatus. Until the last round of games Phil was in top slot. He will have to take advantage of his 2 games in hand to return to the top.
At the other end of the league Alistair is fighting to keep his place as skip - the bottom skip is replaced by the winning skip of the St Margaret’s League. At this stage Bob Bowie sits top with four others all two points behind . The outcome of this league is far from clear with all matches keenly fought.
New Pairs Champions Final on 20.12.22
David Barton and Nigel Paterson are the new Pairs Champions, with a 4-2 victory (3 ends to 2) over Alistair Low and Ian Macdonald. A good contest played on swingy ice (a trademark of the fine ice at Kinross this season). Nigel was the outstanding player with a wide range of excellent shots. (action shot below) Hard luck Alistair - bridesmaid two years in a row!
New Points Champion
Alastair Ritchie demonstrated how valuable extra practice and coaching can be - taking top spot for the Willie Black curling stone, after finishing a very close second last year. A great event for our club.
Alistair Low was second and Nigel Paterson - third.
Prizes donated by Club President Jimmy Miller were appreciated.
Two other pictures: The guys having a good chat and Ed Brown, our top non skip finisher (fourth). Everyone appreciated the great grub and atmosphere at the rink. (Cheers Duncan and Angie)
Coaching session - directional sweeping!
Andrew Johnston shared his knowledge and enthusiasm for directional sweeping with a fine turnout of club curlers on a Friday evening. It is fair to say that for some members tips on 'normal' sweeping are more appropriate! Great to see Mr. Galloway senior taking an interest in sweeping! Thanks to Andrew and Alastair Ritchie for organising the event.
Pairs - two finalists are ready!
Last year Low played Barton in the final, this year Low plays another Barton - David instead of his Dad!
Congrats to Alastair Low and Ian Macdonald who were unbeaten in pool B and David and Nigel Paterson who were also unbeaten in Pool A. The ice was great and we enjoyed the time in the bar!
Date of the of final tbd
Picture of Ian Macdonald and John Leitch modelling our new kit. Thanks for organising this Dave Scivens.
Jim Temple Bonspiel
The first major event of the season took place on 16th September at Kinross. Past president Bill Galloway was the only skip to win both matches and so was the clear winner of the event. He was backed up by Jim Barton, Dave Neill and a very welcome guest, Jimmy Elliot. Picture of the rink with President Jim Miller.
Members appreciated the great ice and welcoming atmosphere at the rink.
John Leitch with Bob Bowie, Garry Douse and Bryan Mottershaw took second place. In addition to Jimmy we also welcomed Ben Clark, Grandson of Tom and son of Alan with his pal Luke as guests.
The curling was followed by a rendition of the club song, a brilliant poem about our 'new kit' by the club poet - Billy Brown. We must also acknowledge the short comic sketch by Alastair Ritchie and Mick Schofield . Picture included!
The new season started in Kinross with the President v Vice President match at 5.45 on Tuesday 13th September. Experienced curlers took part - perhaps some were selected to get an early game! President Jim was joined by immediate past President Bill Galloway, Robert Smith and Malcolm Gray. Vice President Andy Johnston, was joined by Ian Macdonald, Fergus Shaw and Mick Schofield.
President Jim took the game 6 - 2 with 5 ends to 2. Good start Jim!!
and here is the President's poem about the event!
The match of the day about to begin.
To have missed this game would have been a sin.
All the niceties and smiles with a gritting of teeth.
Who knows what dark thoughts were lurking beneath,
It was nip and tuck until the first end,
Big Mac and Andy being driven round the bend.
The Goatmaster sliding like Torvill and Mr Bean,
A sight I can say, all should have seen.
With his new metal knee,and some say a bit portly.
To stop it squeaking, should've used some W D 40
Finally the bold Broon was asked to save the day,
He admitted he was giving the game away.
We just need a draw shot, no need for any wellie,
It glides down the ice into the the head, and
though the head, ending up in, you guessed it,
LOCHGELLY!
A lighthearted match as always should be,
the outcome, the winner was me!
Thanks to all concerned played in the spirit of curling.
Jimmy M.
President
KCT AGM: Inverkeithing Curling Club members were thanked by KCT Chair Bob Tait for all the work supporting the rink, especially in the gardens and on the ice pad as preparations build up for the new season. John Leitch press-ganged several members into hire 'Weapons of Grass destruction squad, and his paint clearing gang. Of course the input of chair Bob Tait and Operations Manager Jim Barton cannot be overestimated. Well done guys.
Congratulations to Tom Clarke on being the Chieftain at the Inverkeithing Highland Games on 6th August. Tom has been a staunch supporter and member of the organising committee of the Games for many years. He is joined in this picture by Douglas and Alastair Lamond - this trio are three of the longest serving members of the club.
20 Club members enjoyed the annual golf outing on 26th July as we prepare for the new curling season. Thanks to Alastair Low and everyone at Aberdour Golf Club for making us so welcome and of course arranging such splendid weather!
Robert Smith retained the trophy with a peerless 40 points. Murray Galloway and Fergus Shaw followed him with 36 points each. Robert also won the trophy in 2001!
The latter pair along with Andy Johnstone won the yellow bowl challenge, which this year was completed with no disputes. The other prizes were longest drive: Robert Smith, Nearest the hole: (10th) Bill Galloway and (16th) Murray Galloway.
It was great to see former Presidents Iain Robertson and Bob Smith come along and encourage the golfers.
Inverkeithing members have been busy at Kinross Curling pre season. Jim Barton, Operations Director has been everpresent dealing with recruitment and preparing for the new season. Bob Tait has continued in his crucial role as Chair of the Board.
Many thanks to Gary Douse for his carpentry skills, and John Leitch (see picture) among several others for the hard work preparing the ice pad for a fresh coat of paint.
A reminder of one of our great events - celebrating 175th Anniversary at the North West Castle, Stranraer. 28th March 2009
When was the last time you curled outdoors?
Memories from 10th Jan 2010 at Otterston Loch
Congratulations to President Bill, leading Inverkeithing to victory (41 shots to 40) v Preston Curling Club in early March (2022). This was the second official challenge between the two clubs and this year the top club claimed this great new trophy. We hope that Preston will travel north next year. (provisional date is 18/19 Feb 2023)
The competition between the clubs has developed over several years at both Lockerbie and Stranraer. We have been thrilled to curl at the amazing Flower Bowl, the only full time curling rink in England.
Sometimes we have to dress up to take part - the New Year bonspiel at Kirkcaldy in 2014
Eight Enders rarely happen - one we can acknowledge took place at Kinross curling in November 2013. Skipped by Colin Campbell with Phil Slater, Jim Barton and Mike Low in the St. Margaret's League. Worth noting that in spite of losing an 8 at end two the opposition won the match!
Another eight ender - who says they are rare! Alastair Low, Andrew Johnston, Billy Brown and Alastair Ritchie standing in front of the 'evidence'!
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