The “total points” tournament will benefit the United Ways of Chautauqua County’s 2024 fundraising campaign, which is now under way and countywide for the first time ever.

Registration for the tournament is now open, with the ability to sign up as either an individual or a team of six. The tournament will run from 5:30 to 8 p.m. and will feature a “Happy Hour” mixer with a cash bar as well as a “Learn To Curl” session prior to the competition.

Northwest Arena’s “Backyard Curling” takes place on the ice, though no special equipment or skates are required. Participants are required to wear sneakers or gym shoes and are encouraged to dress appropriately for a colder environment.

Backyard curling is a low-contact activity that is social and engaging. Last year’s inaugural Curling Tournament was spearheaded and organized by United Way’s 2023 Campaign Chairs Rex and Michelle “Micki” McCray. Building on the success of last year’s event, Rex McCray is again coordinating the tournament for United Way.

Curling at the Northwest Arena is pictured. The United Ways of Chautauqua County will hold its second annual curling tournament, a fundraiser for its 2024 fundraising campaign, on Nov. 15. Entries are due by Nov. 8.

“The popularity of Backyard Curling at Northwest Arena keeps growing, and that’s part of the reason we’re getting the word out early – as space is limited for the number of teams we can have play in this competition.” McCray said. “The reason for the deadline to register is so that we can structure the play, so as not to have regular Curling League players up against first-time teams looking to learn and have some fun.”

The deadline to register a team for United Way’s Curling Tournament is Friday, Nov. 8.

“We’ve seen the excitement around Backyard Curling grow over the years, and we’re thrilled to again be partnering with the United Ways of Chautauqua County for its annual tournament,” said Craig Hinderleider, director of operations at Northwest Arena. “Backyard Curling private rentals for parties and instructional play sessions are available. It can be a fun team-building exercise or activity for friends. Participants are required to wear sneakers or gym shoes and are encouraged to dress appropriately for a colder environment.”

To register, sign up as a team or purchase tickets to attend, text UWCURLING to 41444, call 716-483-1566, or contact Nick Dean by emailing ndean@uwayscc.org.

Curling at the Northwest Arena is pictured. The United Ways of Chautauqua County will hold its second annual curling tournament, a fundraiser for its 2024 fundraising campaign, on Nov. 15. Entries are due by Nov. 8.