Active Stirling congratulates Borestone & Stirling Curling Club on 275 years of curling history
Active Stirling is proud that the National Curling Academy at The PEAK Sports Village played host to a historic celebration on Saturday 1 November, as Borestone & Stirling Curling Club marked an incredible 275 years of curling tradition.
A day of history and celebration
The day began on the ice with a special game featuring Stirling Young Curlers and members of Borestone & Stirling Curling Club. In a nod to the sport’s heritage, six committee members dressed in period costume and swapped modern brushes for old-fashioned hairbrushes—bringing curling history to life for the next generation. Mixed teams of young curlers and club members showcased the true spirit of curling: teamwork, fun, and respect for tradition.
Visitors also enjoyed a fascinating display of curling artefacts, kindly loaned by the Scottish Curling Trust, alongside items from the club’s own collection. This exhibit highlighted the evolution of curling over centuries and sparked curiosity among young players about the game’s rich history.
Afternoon Bonspiel and evening celebrations
The celebrations continued with an afternoon Bonspiel, welcoming teams from five local clubs alongside Borestone & Stirling. The event embodied curling camaraderie, with Kilsyth emerging victorious (skipped by Neil Murray, with Billy Johnstone leading, Dougie McKenzie at 2nd and Johnnie Munro at 3rd, came out on top). Borestone & Stirling securing second place (skipped by Club President Derek Young, with Andy Alston as 3rd, Alix McNicol Cox at 2nd and lead Janice Young). They were also rewarded with the Corston Sinclair Trophy, a piece of history dating back to their 250th Bonspiel in 2000.
In the evening, over 60 guests gathered at the Birds and Bees for a celebratory dinner, joined by distinguished guests including the Lord Provost of Stirling, Cllr Elaine Waterson and RCCC President, Keith Prentice.
Guest speakers were Nigel Holl, Executive Performance Director British Curling, and Aileen Neilson, Paralympic Medal Winner, and Scottish Curling Trust Ambassador. The night featured inspiring speeches and entertainment, reinforcing the sense of community that makes curling so special.
The club is especially grateful to Manor Farm Business Park, the principal sponsor for the day. The business is owned and operated by the Alix McNicol-Cox Trust, with Tom and Alix McNicol-Cox being proud members of the club.
A raffle on the day raised an amazing £680 for Strathcarron Hospice, and the event was made possible thanks to generous support from Stirling Council and ClubSport Stirling, along with other sponsors including Broadleys Veterinary Hospital and Winston Churchill Venison.
Active Stirling’s message of congratulations
Borestone & Stirling Curling Club have hosted a brilliant celebration that not only honours their history but inspires future generations. 275 years is an incredible milestone—congratulations to everyone involved.
Although I couldn’t attend as I’m competing in the States ahead of Milano Cortina 2026, I want to congratulate the club on this achievement. Bringing together young curlers and long-standing members shows the strength and future of curling in Stirling.
Active Stirling is proud to support curling development and provide world-class facilities like the National Curling Academy, ensuring the sport continues to thrive for generations to come.