ST. PAUL – It was a busy day for the St. Paul Alberta Curling Club on Nov. 19, as curlers of all ages participated in the club’s bonspiel fundraiser for Haying in the 30’s.
In the end, the curling club raised just over $4,300 for the cancer support society.
The fundraiser bonspiel started three years ago when organizers wanted to put together a “fun event for a cause,” according to organizer TJ Wagner. Having a few relatives who have been diagnosed with cancer inspired Wagner to organize the fundraiser.
There were 72 curlers who played in the bonspiel, divided into 18 teams, according to Wagner. Plenty of people also stopped by to watch and show their support.
“When you get kids [playing], of course, you get the grandparents and families – so, we have lots of people watching,” she said.
Wagner said many curling club members either know somebody who has battled cancer or who have fought cancer themselves. Haying in the 30’s is a cancer support society that provides financial assistance to those who have been diagnosed with cancer, so supporting the local group was a no-brainer.
Matthew Kaprowski attended the bonspiel with his girlfriend, professional curler Val Sweeting. Kaprowski said his grandfather, who was “very involved” with Haying in the 30s, passed away due to cancer.
“So, I came to support it for a good cause,” said Kaprowski.
He said the fundraiser bonspiel was fun and everyone was relaxed, and there was a “good family aspect out there.”
Martin Naundorf, who has recently stepped back up as the President of Haying in the 30’s, thanked all those who came to support the fundraiser.
“It’s that kind of support that keeps us going,” said Naundorf, adding, the non-profit is getting a lot of support from community-based organizations such as the curling club, which he’s happy to see.
Wagner thanked everyone who came out at the event this year, and in the past, including the curlers, those who donated, and those who bid during the silent auction, helping the club raise the funds.
“We couldn’t have raised all the money without all the support.”
