The Innisfail Horseshoe Club is enjoying a record setting season.
The club has welcomed four new members this year, totalling the highest membership numbers in the club's history.
“We have at least four brand new members,” said Myrna Kissick, president of the Innisfail Horseshoe Club. “They have never pitched before -- they are new to the sport.”
The horseshoe league, which plays every Wednesday evening, has been running since May 5 and is experiencing a good turnout every week on league nights noted Kissick.
“We have a total of 15 now in the league and that's the most we've ever had,” she added. “I am really, really pleased with this number. There's more people who are interested (in the sport of horseshoes). It's very good for you,” said Kissick pointing out both the health and social benefits that the sport offers participants.
Kissick, a longtime champion of the sport, recently returned from the provincial championships, held in Calgary June 25 and 26. She earned herself second place in the A ladies category.
“There were seven of us from Innisfail that were there. Our numbers always support area tournaments,” she said, noting that only veteran players attend the provincials in Calgary.
“Anybody can play if they want but they (new members) just weren't ready for it yet,” said Kissick, adding that she hopes to have everyone ready for the annual Innisfail Horseshoe Tournament this August.
“Our tournament is what I'm looking forward to for our new players in the novice class,” she said. “I'm hoping they'll all go in. It's good for them; even if they don't win a game it's a good thing for them to do because they need the competition,” explained Kissick.
The horseshoe courts are open for Innisfail residents to enjoy.
“People can use the horseshoe courts any time they want. They are open to the public,” said Kissick. “It doesn't cost them a cent and it doesn't cost them anything to become a member (of the Innisfail Horseshoe Club),” she added, noting there is a small fee of $15 to join the league on Wednesday nights.
One new club member and first-time horseshoe player is Wayne Barnim, who was out enjoying a game recently in Innisfail.
“I like it very much. It's a nice get-together,” said Barnim. “It's not a very expensive sport to get into and it's a fun sport.”
