A group of people has recently begun an “addition” to Curling. It’s also called Ice stock sport. Bavarian Curling utilizes traditional curling equipment, but the ice is covered in flour, not water or other substances. The goal is to get your stones closer to the center than your opponent’s stone while remaining within the boundaries drawn on the ice.
It is a variant of Curling that originated in Germany and was created in 2011 by Stefan Hartmann. It is a sport that starts with a ‘B‘ character.
History of Bavarian Curling Sports
Bavarian Curling was developed in the 1830s by gymnastics, fencing, and modern dancing courses of the Royal Bavarian Academy of Arts in Munich.
The former curling course was later merged into the current dancing course. The Bavarian Club was founded in 1836 as the first curling club in Germany. European Championships were first held in 1951, and World Contests were first held in 1983.
Clubs
There are currently more than 40 curling clubs and curling associations in Bavaria.
Rules of Bavarian Curling
Bavarian Curling, also known as Eisstockschießen, is a traditional winter sport popular in Bavaria, Germany. Here’s a unique list of equipment used in Bavarian Curling:
1. Eisstock
The Eisstock, also known as the “ice stock” or “curling stone,” is the main equipment used in Bavarian Curling. It is a large, flat-bottomed, disc-shaped object made of wood or synthetic materials. The Eisstock is designed for sliding on the ice and has a handle for players to grip and propel it towards the target.
2. Eisbahn
The Eisbahn is the playing surface for Bavarian Curling. It is a specially prepared ice rink or lane where the game is played. The Eisbahn is typically outdoors and can vary in length, but it is typically around 30-40 meters long and 3-4 meters wide. The ice is carefully groomed and maintained to provide a smooth playing surface.
3. Ice Skates or Ice Shoes
Players in Bavarian Curling wear ice skates or specialized ice shoes to navigate the Eisbahn. Ice skates provide the ability to glide smoothly over the ice, while ice shoes are designed with spikes or special soles for traction and stability on the ice.
4. Push Stick (Schubstöcke)
The push stick, also known as the “Schubstock,” is used by players to propel the Eisstock along the ice. It is a long pole with a hook or groove at one end, which is inserted into the handle of the Eisstock. The push stick provides leverage and control for accurate shots.
5. Ice Brush (Besen)
An ice brush, or “Besen,” is used by players to sweep the ice in front of the Eisstock as it glides toward the target. The sweeping motion helps to reduce friction and control the Eisstock’s speed and trajectory. The ice brush typically has long bristles or a fabric pad at the end.
6. Target or Daube
The target, also called the “Daube,” is a small, circular area marked on the ice at the far end of the Eisbahn. It serves as the goal or landing zone for the Eisstock. The Daube is often divided into concentric circles, with the center circle being the highest-scoring area.
7. Measuring Device
In situations where it is difficult to determine the scoring Eisstock, a measuring device is used to accurately assess the distances. This can be a measuring tape or a specially designed caliper-like tool that allows for precise measurement of the distance between Eisstocks and the target.
Bavarian Curling is a social and competitive sport that requires skill, strategy, and teamwork. The equipment listed above is essential for players to enjoy and participate in this traditional winter pastime in Bavaria.
Equipment of the sports
Here’s a short list of equipment used in Bavarian Curling:
- Eisstock: The main equipment used in Bavarian Curling, the Eisstock is a disc-shaped object made of wood or synthetic materials. It is slid on the ice towards the target.
- Eisbahn: The playing surface for Bavarian Curling, the Eisbahn is an outdoor ice rink or lane where the game is played.
- Ice Skates or Ice Shoes: Players wear ice skates or specialized ice shoes to move on the ice and navigate the Eisbahn.
- Push Stick (Schubstock): The push stick is a long pole with a hook or groove used to propel the Eisstock along the ice.
- Ice Brush (Besen): Players use an ice brush to sweep the ice in front of the Eisstock, reducing friction and controlling its movement.
- Target or Daube: The target is a marked area on the ice where the Eisstock is aimed to land. It typically consists of concentric circles.
These are the primary equipment items needed to play Bavarian Curling.
In final word
In June 2018, the IOC Board granted provisional recognition by the IOC to EFI. The sport is played on an ice surface, and proceedings are held on the tarmac in summer.
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