Alice Hoar was a farmer and avid curler and golfer in our community. Alice displayed good sportsmanship and always kept a competitive spirit both on and off the ice; however, this competitive spirit did not take away from her friendly personality and never ending interest in people and the game of curling! So much interest in the game, that in fact, Alice along with three other ladies entered the first female team in the Farmers spiel in 1989. Alice’ style was to do things with courage, dignity and kindness.
Although she played the game to win, her true passion was that everyone should enjoy the game! She was always complimenting the seasoned curlers and inspiring the beginner curlers. I had the privilege of being a part of Alice’s team one year during this spiel and had many laughs and was the recipient of many words of encouragement from Alice – there were even a few cocktails involved!
Alice taught many of us how to play the game, taught us all how to love the game, laugh a lot, enjoy the festivities and most importantly, how to be a gracious winner and a gracious loser.
Sadly, Alice passed away in 2007; however, the Legacy she leaves behind will set the standard for those to follow.
The Farmer and Farmerettes Bonspiel Committee designed an award called, the Alice Hoar Memorial Award which is presented annually to the person who has best displayed similar qualities to what Alice had, chosen by you, the curlers.
You had received earlier this week ballots in your curling package. 4 people had been previously nominated and you, were to choose one of them or even nominated someone else.
This year our nominees were:
Robbin Edgar: For years, Robbin has been involved in every aspect of the curling club, Robbin was always there to help someone out, he was the official drawmaster for many years and is always cheering someone one, whether he’s on the ice or a spectator.
Larry Marshall: Larry has been an intrinsic part of the club for years. Larry is an extremely competitive curler, but one of the nicest guys around who has always been willing to teach a new curler the game or help out around the rink, he’s an all-round guy!
Chris Radomske: Chris has been working with the Little Rockers for many years and has taught many a young curler the game. Chris is always willing to work at any event/bonspiel etc. in order to help the club out.
Betty Hobbs: Betty Hobbs IS Monday Afternoon Curling. Betty has always taken the time to invite brand new curlers to join the ladies Monday afternoon league and has taught them the game from lead up. Betty is a friendly face who has a love for the game she wants to share with everyone.
We have tabulated the votes this year and the 2011 Alice Hoar Memorial Award winner is Betty Hobbs.
Some of the reasons why you the participants in this bonspiel chose Betty to be the honoured recipient of this award are: Betty is always willing to help out when a curler needs advice whether Betty is curling with them or against them. Betty always has a smile on her face and a pleasant welcoming way about her. Betty has kept our Monday Afternoon Ladies league running for years. Betty is one of the most special, nice curlers.
