North East’s Wheelchair Curling Team Comes Close to World Championships Qualification
The North East region of England has been making waves in the world of wheelchair curling, with the local team narrowly missing out on qualifying for the World Championships. The team, known as Northern Ice, has been training relentlessly in Dumfries, nearly two hours away from their Cramlington base. Led by Stewart Pimblett, who himself is a member of the Paralympics Wheelchair Curling squad, the team showed great determination and talent during the recent World B-Championships in Finland.
Despite not securing a spot in the upcoming World Championships in South Korea, the Northern Ice team showcased their skills and picked up four impressive victories. Their journey to Finland and back home was no easy feat, requiring a four-hour round trip, but their unwavering passion for the sport made it all worthwhile. Stewart Pimblett, a seasoned athlete who previously excelled in wheelchair basketball before transitioning to curling, has been instrumental in guiding the team.
Pimblett’s personal story is one of resilience and determination. After a life-changing accident at the age of nine, which left him paralyzed from the waist down, he didn’t let the setback define him. Instead, he immersed himself in various sports, ultimately finding his calling in curling. Alongside dedicated coaches Rosemary and Tony Lenton, Pimblett has successfully transformed Northern Ice into one of the top wheelchair curling clubs globally.
During the recent tournament, Pimblett spoke passionately about the transformative power of curling. He highlighted how the sport has positively impacted the lives of individuals who have faced immense challenges, stating, I have met people who have had awful things happen to them, and then I have watched the sport completely change their lives for the better. Pimblett expressed immense pride in his team’s progress, highlighting their rapid cohesion despite only playing together for six months. While the goal was to secure a spot in the World Championships, Pimblett believes in the team’s potential, stating that even if it doesn’t happen this year, it will soon enough.
Reflecting on his own journey, Pimblett emphasized that he wouldn’t change what happened to him. His experience of building and growing the club has been eye-opening and one of the most fulfilling endeavors of his life. His resilience and passion serve as an inspiration to his team and the broader community.
Northern Ice’s performance in the World B-Championships may not have resulted in immediate qualification for the World Championships, but it has undoubtedly showcased their talent and determination. The team’s journey, from training in Dumfries to competing on an international stage, highlights the dedication and passion within the North East’s wheelchair curling community. Despite narrowly missing out, Northern Ice remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of wheelchair curling.
For more information about Northern Ice and their inspiring journey, visit their Facebook page.
