Registration open for 60th annual Jam Pail Bonspiel

Medicine Hat – Registration is now open for the Jam Pail Bonspiel, which turns 60 in 2025. The Diamond Jubilee edition of Medicine Hat’s longest running sporting event is set for Wednesday, February 19 and Thursday, February 20 at the Kinplex. The registration deadline is Monday, February 10, 2025.

Kinplex I will be converted into 13 curling sheets and will welcome Grades 3 to 6 students from all over the city. The event typically begins around 5 p.m. each day. However, the event schedule and start time will depend on registration numbers. Each team is guaranteed three games.

The bonspiel was originally created to provide students with an activity held during Teacher’s Convention which focused on participation, sport, and fun. For many, it has historically been their first introduction to the sport. In the early years of the Jam Pail Bonspiel, tin pails used for storing jam were filled with water and frozen and used as curling rocks, which is how it got its name.

“As we celebrate this incredible 60-year milestone, we’re excited to honour the history of the Jam Pail Bonspiel by continuing to focus on those three key elements – participation, sport, and fun,” said Rebecca Hirsch, Recreation Program Coordinator.

This year, the City has introduced an ‘Open/All ages’ category during Wednesday’s session to match the all ages category offered annually on Thursdays. This provides an additional opportunity for all jam pail enthusiasts to participate.