Pitching fun and family bonds: Abbotsford Horseshoe Club

ABBOTSFORD, British Columbia — If you’re looking for a leisurely sport that brings families and communities together, look no further than the Abbotsford Horseshoe Club. This community-based organization is all about having fun and fostering a sense of camaraderie through horseshoe pitching. Linda Leo, a player and treasurer-secretary of the club, describes it as a sport that offers equal play for people of all ages and athletic abilities. It’s time to grab a horseshoe and join in on the excitement!

The Abbotsford Horseshoe Club has a rich history that dates back many years when horseshoe pitching was more prominent. Today, with over 70 members and multiple clubs in British Columbia alone, the sport continues to thrive. Horseshoes are not only played professionally and competitively throughout North America, but it also hosts the World Horseshoe Championships, which will take place this year in Lansing, Michigan.

Leading the charge are dedicated individuals like Cindy Rowell (president), Linda Leo (secretary-treasurer), Brian Rickaby (youth and camp coordinator), Tammy Siganakis (youth coordinator and tournament director. Together, they make the team a vital part of its success. The Abbotsford Horseshoe Club is a nonprofit organization that relies on fundraising and sponsorship to sustain its operations.

While the team may not have experienced comeback victories this season, they do engage in friendly competition with Washington State, vying for a trophy based on point accumulation. Although currently trailing, the team is eager to reclaim the title they won last year. They have a strong spirit and a commitment to honing their skills through warm-ups and friendly matches.

New members are welcomed with open arms and offered free lessons to get started. The team believes in the power of practice and improvement, creating an environment where everyone feels supported. Adding to the team’s spirit is their mascot, Magnus, generously provided by sponsor Magnuson Ford. You can find exciting images and videos of the games, sponsors and mascots on their website and Facebook page.

Celebrations for the team are simple but meaningful. They congratulate and cheer each other on, sharing the joy of victories. Sometimes they gather at Sneakers Pub and Lounge in Abbotsford for a meal, a major sponsor of the BC International Horseshoe Competition held at their club.

The team has seen impressive achievements, with Brian Rickaby winning first place in his class at the Canadians in Alberta last year. This year, the Canadians will be held in Guelph, Ontario, and the Abbotsford Horseshoe Club is preparing to host the event in 2024, bringing a significant economic boost to the city.

Motivated by personal goals, a love for the sport and the desire to meet new people, the team is dedicated to improving their skills, aiming for more ringers and having a great time. The club warmly invites people of all ages, from 8 to 88 and beyond, to join them and experience the inexpensive and rewarding world of horseshoe pitching. It’s time to create lasting memories, forge new friendships and have a blast at the Abbotsford Horseshoe Club!

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