The excitement of the Winter Olympics arrived at Dorking Manor Care Home in Dorking as residents swapped their usual activities for a friendly curling competition inside the home.
The team created their own version of the sport, turning part of the home into a makeshift rink and inviting residents to try their hand at sliding the stones towards the target. The activity quickly sparked plenty of laughter and friendly rivalry.
Resident Ann Chester, aged 82, admitted she was curious when the activity was first announced.
“When they first said we were doing curling, I wondered if we’d need ice skates,” she said.
“But once I had a go, I loved it. It’s much harder than it looks. You think you’ve given it a gentle push and suddenly it’s racing off like it’s late for tea.”
Ann also shared a little advice for the professionals competing in the real Winter Olympics.
“Stay focused, work as a team, and don’t let a little wobble put you off.”
Fellow resident Belinda Dixon said finding the right amount of force proved the biggest challenge.
“Too soft and it stops halfway, too hard and it flies straight past. There were plenty of laughs and a few dramatic ‘whoops!’ moments.”
Resident Pat Franks said the activity had given her a new appreciation for the sport.
“I’ve always enjoyed watching the Winter Olympics, but I’ll definitely be paying more attention to the curling now.”
After several closely fought rounds, medals were awarded to the day’s top performers. Adrian Edwards took the gold medal, Ann Chester secured silver and Belinda Dixon claimed bronze.
The light-hearted competition brought plenty of energy to the afternoon and is just one example of the activities that form part of life at Dorking Manor Care Home.