During the Little Rock and Novice sessions on Sunday at the Cornwall Curling Club, World Junior Champion Lauren Lenentine joined the groups virtually from Manitoba, while Team Birt’s Michelle McQuaid joined in person to talk with the young curlers about their love of curling and their journeys~ including starting out in the Cornwall Junior program.
Lauren Lenentine via video (file photo)
Lauren said she’s been curling for 13 years, while Michelle has curled for 24. Lauren talked about her curling journey representing Canada at the World Juniors, and also how being at the Scotties was amazing because she got to curl against the best curlers, who were her mentors growing up. She said she has always wanted to curl at the Scotties, and was very happy to have the opportunity while still Junior age. She told the Little Rockers and Novice curlers present that she is still learning, and invited the young curlers to work toward their goals. too!
Michelle McQuaid
Michelle told them about the 10 provincial titles she has won, including 6 times representing PEI at the national Scotties, 3 Canadian nationals as provincial Junior champion, and also representing PEI at the Canada Games in Whitehorse. Michelle and Lauren both said that one of the important things about curling is having fun!
The curlers asked Michelle to sign their own equipment. As well, there was a draw for a signed photo and jersey from Team Birt, won by Mya Beaton.
Besides the session with Lauren and Michelle, the curlers hit the ice, some to play a game, some to practice throwing and sliding, with Michelle joining them and also commenting on their really nice slides!
Thanks to Michelle and Lauren for inspiring young Island curlers!